Carrie Farra grew up in Brooklyn and moved to Shirley in second grade. She attended William Floyd Elementary School, where she transitioned effortlessly from a Catholic school background into the welcoming William Floyd community. Carrie continued her education at William Paca Middle School, where she embraced academic challenges and formed lasting friendships. Her connection to William Floyd only deepened during her high school years, where she thrived as an editor of the yearbook, served as a class officer, and was a varsity cheerleader. It was during this time that Carrie honed her leadership skills and cultivated enduring relationships with her peers and mentors alike, contributing to a well-rounded educational experience. 

Carrie married her high school sweetheart, and together they built a family. They have two daughters, both of whom graduated from William Floyd, and Carrie continues to call the William Floyd community home. 

As a dedicated mother, Carrie fully embraced her role as a stay-at-home mom, volunteering her time with the PTO at John S. Hobart Elementary School, where her daughters attended. Driven by a deep passion for education and inspired by these experiences, it was at this time she decided to return to college to pursue a degree in elementary education, determined to inspire future generations. 

After graduating from St. Joseph’s College, Carrie began her teaching career as a substitute teacher in the William Floyd School District. Shortly after that, she transitioned to a full-time second-grade teaching role at Nathaniel Woodhull Elementary School, a position that brought her immense joy. Early in her tenure, she had the opportunity to follow them to third grade, where she spent another year nurturing their growth. 

For 18 years, Carrie taught third grade, where she fostered a love of learning in her students. She introduced them to the wonders of the world through social studies, focusing on different cultures, and captivated their imaginations with science lessons on life cycles. Eager to continue growing as an educator, Carrie took on a new challenge by looping with her class to teach fourth grade, where she continues to make an impact today. 

Carrie’s professional journey has been marked by a dedication to her own growth as an educator. She has had the privilege of serving as an English Language Arts ambassador, where she helped shape an engaging literacy curriculum and provided professional development to fellow educators in the William Floyd School District. 

Beyond her academic expertise, Carrie’s true commitment lies in building meaningful connections with her students. She takes the time to understand their individual needs and ensures they feel seen, heard, and valued. Carrie’s unwavering passion for teaching, paired with her dedication to her students, inspires her to be the best educator she can be. 

Receiving this award reflects the profound impact Carrie has had on her students over the years. For her, teaching is not just about imparting knowledge – it’s about the relationships she builds and the positive influence she has on the lives of the children in her classroom. The students she teaches become a part of her story, and she is forever changed by knowing them.