Cape board honors Rehoboth Elementary teacher, substitute

The Cape Henlopen school board recognized Rehoboth Elementary K-3 specialized setting teacher Andrew Granath and substitute Jeffrey Bernstein at its monthly meeting Feb. 23.

Granath joined Rehoboth Elementary in 2021, said board member Julie Derrick, who represents the Rehoboth Beach-Dewey Beach area.

“He is a very patient educator that is willing to do whatever needs to be done for a student or the team at a moment’s notice,” Derrick said. “During his first year, he served as the resource teacher for 17 students, along with filling in for his team when no substitutes were available.” 

Bernstein was a volunteer math mentor for several years before he began substituting, Derrick said.

“In 2020, when RES had a great need for substitutes, he readily stepped up to work as a paraeducator and teacher,” Derrick said. “He has been a loyal substitute serving in any role. Additionally, he resumed the weekly mentoring of three students.”

Superintendent Bob Fulton said he provided a district update to the Lewes Chamber of Commerce that morning, particularly noting information about elementary-level performance.

“I talked about what makes that different, and it's our people and staff,” Fulton said. “I believe from bus drivers to our teachers, paras, administrators, and also our substitutes and our mentors, because we have such quality people who work with our kids every day.”

In turn, Bernstein said he felt lucky and blessed to be part of such a school. 

Each month, the district recognizes employees at one school building for their outstanding work in Going the Extra Mile. GEM award winners receive a certificate and gift card courtesy of the Cape Henlopen Educational Foundation.