Thursday, October 1, 2026
Two local educators were among 26 Nassau County educators recently recognized for their contributions to the advancement of technology in local schools.
Christopher Bennett, a teacher at South Side High School, and Cassandra Powell, a teacher at Holy Name of Mary School in Valley Stream, a school within the Diocese of Rockville Centre, were named NASTECH NASTARS at the eighth annual Nassau BOCES NASTECH Awards.
The awards, hosted by Nassau BOCES NASTECH and its Data Privacy & Security Service, recognize educators who demonstrate innovation, leadership and support for technology initiatives in their school districts. Each NASTAR recipient is selected by their district based on those criteria.
Bennett is a New York state-certified math and computer science teacher at South Side High School. He leads the school’s computer science curriculum and advises the VEX Robotics team. He has expanded opportunities for students through a cybersecurity program and the creation of a Computer Science National Honor Society.
Powell is the technology teacher and coordinator at Holy Name of Mary School, where she has taught since 2012. She holds a master’s degree in educational technology and combines her background in technology and education to help students develop skills they can use throughout their academic careers.
The honorees were recognized for their innovation, leadership and efforts to advance the use of technology in education while supporting initiatives that benefit students, teachers and their schools.
Nassau BOCES NASTECH provides technology-related services and support to school districts throughout Nassau County, including services that support district technology infrastructure. The organization also provides professional development designed to advance teaching and learning across Long Island.
