CHS Teacher Wins "Bright Light" Tech Award

By Thomas Nothel

Cold Spring Harbor technology teacher Melissa McLees was honored for her outstanding work as a “Bright Light” by the Association of Suffolk Supervisors for Educational Technology (ASSET).

Bright Light recipients are selected for their ability to integrate technology into their educational environment. McLees teaches computer science courses ranging from beginner to Advanced Placement and Advanced Honors Coding.

McLees is head coach for the Computer Science Club. Her love of coaching extends to the tennis courts as the girls varsity tennis coach for the past 18 years.  She has taught numerous math courses throughout her 19-year tenure in the district and 29 years of teaching.

For the 2023 Season McLees received the Coach of the Year award from the Nassau County Girls Tennis Coaches Association.  In October 2023, the Cold Spring Harbor girls varsity tennis team the won the Nassau County Small Schools and Long Island Small Schools championships for the second year in a row.

McLees has served as the director for countless high school musical productions.

“She just always knows how to brighten your day,” stated theater student Toni Namazi. “She always knows the right thing to say, she’s like a second mom!”

"Receiving this award is a testament to the tireless effort and passion Ms. McLees brings to her role as a teacher," said Cold Spring Harbor High School Principal Daniel Danbusky . "Her unwavering commitment to growth and development has not gone unnoticed.  It is truly inspiring to see the impact she has on her greater school community."

McLees was honored at the ASSET luncheon at the Heritage Club in Bethpage. She was joined by Danbusky, Executive Director of Instructional and Administrative Technology Joseph Monastero and CSH Superintendent of Schools Jill M. Gierasch.