CHEEKTOWAGA, N.Y. —
M&T Bank and the Buffalo Bills celebrated the winner of this year’s Touchdown for Teachers at Maryvale High School in Cheektowaga.
"Breonna is known as a compassionate educator who encourages her students to think out of the box,” said M&T Bank WNY Regional President Eric Feldstein.
There was a special event at the school on Tuesday, not only to celebrate the winner, Breanna Pelonero, but also to celebrate the school's first basketball game in their new gym.
"I am so grateful I got this award. I know that the reason that I got this was because of my students. They were willing to work with me as I was willing to work with them,” Pelonero said.
Pelonero was selected out of more than 2,600 entries. According to a spokesperson for M&T Bank, Touchdown for Teachers recognizes local educators for their hard work and commitment to students and the community.
"This all-time record serves as a reminder of how many incredible educators are going above and beyond in Western New York, and it speaks volumes of the impact the winning teachers have made for their schools," the spokesperson said.
Pelonero was nominated by her father. Pelonero said, he “clearly listened to me when I would come home from work and tell him about my experiences here with my students. It was really cool to know it wasn't just a fellow staff member who sees me doing this every day, but a family member who hears about it.”
The Maryvale School District was awarded a $5,000 grant. Bills Wide Receiver Khalil Shakir surprised students and staff, too. He joined them to honor Pelonero and watch the ceremonial basketball game.