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TORONTO - Eleven teachers and administrators throughout the Gem City have been presented with the Joseph and Anna Marie Karaffa Award for Excellence in Education.

This year's recipient is Mary Jo Kuhn, an elementary teacher at S.C. Dennis School.

The Karaffas announced their selection on Wednesday during the annual seniors honor assembly at the school.

The award is given based on nominations received from parents, students, fellow teachers, administrators and alumni.

The award first was established in 1997, and according to Joseph Karaffa it "is presented annually to an outstanding teacher or administrator in the Toronto City School District to recognize his or her efforts in creating an environment where teaching and learning are valued."

Kuhn has been a teacher at Toronto for the past 19 years and holds a professional certificate as an elementary teacher for grades kindergarten through eighth. She is a kindergarten teacher and has served as a teacher in the extended school year program for multi-handicapped children.

"In the nominations (Kuhn) has been described as a 'teacher who is not only known for her knowledge in the classroom, but also for her care and help outside the classroom for those in need,'" Karaffa said.

"She was also described as a 'dedicated teacher who strives to make people aware of children with special needs,'" he added.

Kuhn is a 1974 graduate of Toronto High School and a 1978 graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville, where she received a bachelor's degree in elementary education. She has taken additional coursework at Ashland University, Walsh University, Fresno University, Drake University, Andrews University and Kent State University.

Past recipients of the Joseph and Anna Marie Karaffa Award for Excellence in Education are Barbara Pritts, Kirk George, Barbara Carter, Sue Buckham, James Ray, Maureen Taggart, Gary Fisher, Linda Antonucci, Linda Blair, Charlene Starr and Lynda Glenn.

(Ghrist can be contacted at jstenger@heraldstaronline.com.)