April Renaissance Teacher of the Month: Mrs. Cannistraci

Every month the Renaissance Club selects one teacher or staff member to be the Teacher/Staff of the month.

Eagle Eye: What inspired you to become a teacher?

Susan “Beth” Cannistraci: I have had a number of teachers that inspired me to go into education – my parents, Mr. Albright, Mr. Wilbur, and Mr. Bloom to name a few.

EE: How long have you been teaching?

SC: 24.40 years

EE: Have you always taught at Tyrone? If not, where else?

SC: Of course, I have always taught at TASD.  Why would anyone want to teach anywhere else?

EE: What is your favorite memory as a teacher?

SC: I honestly have a ton of favorite memories.  A special memory this year was when the students participated in the “Change Matters” campaign and we met Eddie.  Other events that stick out were making the QR codes for the Albemarle Nature Trail, and when my students put in a butterfly garden in the courtyard.

EE: If you weren’t teaching right now, what do you think you would have done with your life?

SC: I considered a career in some form of sports medicine or athletic training.

EE: Where did you attend high school?

SC: Tyrone Area High School

EE: Where did you attend college?

SC: IUP

EE: What’s your favorite book?

SC: I don’t really have a favorite book; however, I do like to read a lot over the summer.

EE: What is your favorite sport and sports team?

SC: I love to watch high school sports in general, but my favorites are football and basketball.  I follow all of the Pittsburgh professional teams, Penn State and of course – the Tyrone Golden Eagles.

EE: What are some of your favorite hobbies?

SC: I enjoy watching my daughter’s sporting events, going to the beach and spending time with my family.