Positivity, Kindness & Joy

Pietas Awards are presented to faculty and/or staff members who go above and beyond for the MHS Community.

The February Pietas was presented to Spanish Teacher Ana Cristina Velez by nominators Sophie O’Brien ’27, Giada Wearley ’26, Ginamarie Bocchino ’25, Jaz Garcia ’26, Idia Enoma ’26, Idalis De Jesus ’25, and Emily Keiper ’25.

From Sophie: “Sra. Velez has been an incredibly kind and supportive teacher each and every day we’ve spoken. She is extremely helpful with class material and strives to have us understand it as best we can, while still challenging us and testing that understanding. Her celebratory fireworks whenever a student succeeds only proves her kindness and dedication to making sure we are truly learning.“

From Giada: “Señora Vélez never fails so make someone’s day brighter. Whether it is her simply smiling at you in the hallway or telling you how proud she is of you, she offers a feeling of comfort and support that feels like the biggest, warmest hug.”

From Ginamarie: “Señora Velez has been my teacher for four years, and she is someone who has supported me in gaining fluency in the Spanish language, which has been so helpful in my life. I remember starting Spanish freshman year, frustrated by how challenging the class was, but 4 years later, I see how this was well worth it because my peers and I can finally communicate with others in a second language.”

From Jaz: “As soon as we enter the classroom, her smile would light up the room, always asking about others and bringing joy to the classroom. With every smile she brought, it would brighten my week, even if I was stressed or tired from school. She truly knows what learning is and how to make the people around her feel loved and cared for.”

From Idia: “Since I first arrived at MHS, I’ve been lucky enough to have this person as my teacher. From the very first day, she was warm, bright, and kind — a presence that immediately made me feel at ease. I truly believe that I’ll remember her long after MHS for all the kindness she’s shown me.”

From Idalis: “This person truly has a passion for their subject. With their interactive lessons and endless encouragement, they made learning feel less like a requirement, and more like an opportunity. Whether repeating a concept a thousand times, giving motivational speeches about our futures, or simply their unique way celebrating when you come to the correct answer, they always pushed us to grow, those small victories going a long way.”

From Emily: “Sra. Velez has been crucial to my journey at Miss Hall’s. Throughout those years in class, she taught me and my classmates how to speak Spanish and influenced us with her core values of kindness, respect, and love. I am so grateful to be influenced by such an amazing person who has taught me so much and has shaped me into the person I am today.”