A first-year Capital Region BOCES Career and Technical Education teacher is the recipient of a grant recognizing her excellence. Karen “Kema” Maxwell received a Teacher Appreciation Grant sponsored by the Meier Law Firm. Presented on March 27, the award recognizes “her dedication, hard work, and the positive impact she continues to have on her students and the school community,” representatives of the Latham law firm stated. A $500 award, flowers and balloons were presented to her during a surprise ceremony in her classroom. (Photo provided)