Schools

Students Say 'Brilliant' Distinguished Teacher O'Hara Deserved Award

The biology teacher was honored during Tuesday's graduation ceremony.

Honors and AP biology teacher Margaret O'Hara had no idea she would receive the Distinguished Teacher Award at Chatham High School's graduation Tuesday. But her students knew she deserved it.

"She's brilliant," said Valerie Slaughter after the ceremony. Slaughter had O'Hara as a teacher. "She's really smart. She could answer any question."

O'Hara came up to the stage during graduation to accept her award after co-Principal Michael LaSusa called her name.

Find out what's happening in Chathamwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

She called it "one of the most wonderful feelings."

"I'm thrilled and I'm honored," she said.

Find out what's happening in Chathamwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Graduates also said they have a unique bond with O'Hara. Slaughter said she "could spend hours gossiping with her," while others said they enjoy her company.

"People learn (in her class)," said Olga Kushnir, who also had O'Hara as a teacher. "And they have fun."


Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here