It is with heavy hearts that we share the passing of Lara Damadeo, a beloved fourth-grade teacher at Bretton Woods Elementary School in the Hauppauge School District. Lara, a proud graduate of Hauppauge High School’s Class of 1995, dedicated much of her life to the Hauppauge community, leaving a lasting legacy as both a student and educator.
Lara began her full-time teaching career at Hauppauge in 2000, and over the years, she became a cherished figure in the classroom. Her passion for education, creativity, and her unwavering commitment to her students made her a standout educator. Those fortunate enough to be in her class knew her as a kind, dedicated, and professional teacher who went above and beyond to make learning a joyful experience.
As a former Eagle and member of the National Honor Society, Lara’s dedication to excellence started long before her teaching career. She was an outstanding student, known for her academic achievements and involvement in extracurricular activities, including ballet and the Interact Club. Her involvement with the club reflected her belief in the “power of service above self,” a principle she carried with her into her role as an educator.
Lara’s impact extended beyond her work at the school. She was a vibrant part of the Hauppauge community, known for her kindness and her genuine care for others. Her passing has left a profound hole in the hearts of all who knew her, but her legacy lives on in the students she taught and the lives she touched throughout the years. Though she is no longer with us, the influence of Lara Damadeo will continue to resonate, and her spirit will forever be a part of the Hauppauge community she loved so dearly.
