“French culture has truly impacted me,” says De Lacerda, who will attend Princeton after graduation. “I’d like to thank Dr. Gashi and Mrs. Kawtari for helping me earn this honor.”
Teachers of French from across the United States nominate a student on the basis of his or her academic excellence and an exceptional commitment to the study of French. Such commitment may take the form of participation in French Club, Delta Phi, or other academic or service activities. Recipients must have completed at least three years of French study at the time of graduation and be non-native speakers of French.
“It’s so cool to be recognized,” adds Khan, who will attend Rutgers. “I, too, wish to thank Dr. Gashi and Mrs. Kawtari for their dedication and support.”
Dr. Laje Gashi, veteran French instructor at High Tech High School, personally nominated De Lacerda and Khan for these Outstanding Senior in French Awards.
“With this award, [AATF] hope[s] to encourage worthy students to pursue a career in teaching French or with French as a complement to another profession,” says Dr. Jayne Abrate, Executive Director of AATF.
Founded in 1927, AATF has the distinction of being the largest national professional association of French teachers in the world, with nearly 10,000 members. it has as its mission the promotion of the study of French language and French-speaking literature and cultures at all levels. AATF proudly recognizes the achievements of outstanding students and their teachers.
 |
| (from left to right: Erica De Lacerda and Laiba Khan) |
