Hometown, current residence, age: I grew up and currently still live in Pittsford. I am 26.
Family: My parents: David and Dyanne Lertola
What I am up to: I am currently a high school math teacher at Rutland High School. I teach a variety of math courses, including AP Calculus, am a class advisor, and serve on several different school committees.
How I got to where I am now: I graduated summa cum laude from Castleton University (then Castleton State College) in 2014 with a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and a secondary education teaching license. I will also receive a Master of Arts in Education from Castleton in August of 2018.
Adults to whom I can attribute my current success: My parents, definitely. They have been very influential and supportive of me throughout my entire life. All of my teachers that I’ve had over the years have also helped me grow into the person that I am today.
How my Vermont roots have influenced who I am today: I think there are so many benefits that come with growing up in Vermont. Nature, agriculture, recreation and education are just some of the opportunities that this state offers that a lot of people may take for granted. I’ve had the privilege of being able to partake in many of these things and they have shaped me into someone that enjoys being outdoors, meeting new people and helping out others.
My memories of high school: I really enjoyed all parts of high school but I would have to say that the lifelong friendships that I made are the most important.
My advice for this year’s crop of graduating seniors: Be observant, be resourceful, and take time to appreciate all of the opportunities you’ve had and will continue to have in the future.