On October 9, 2024, at Wayside Cottage, the Scarsdale Edgemont Family Counseling Service (SFCS) honored beloved Scarsdale High School math teacher Eleanor Landau for her exceptional dedication to the community. Landau received the Dr. Thomas Sobol Service Award for her commitment to the mental health and well-being of her students.
The Dr. Thomas Sobol Service Award was created by Sobol’s friends and colleagues after his passing, honoring the former Scarsdale Schools Superintendent and New York State Commissioner of Education. The award celebrates educators like Landau who continue his legacy of service in mental health and community support.
In receiving recognition from Superintendent Drew Patrick, and being chosen amongst all the wonderful teachers at SHS, Landau said she felt deeply “appreciated and grateful to be in a school that honors her role” and contributions to SHS.
Known for her welcoming smile and readiness to help, Landau is often found in the math center, where she brings positive energy to both the subject and the school. Having taught mathematics at Scarsdale High School since 1980, Landau’s deep knowledge of the curriculum allows her to assist students at any level. Her guidance supports students looking to advance in their math courses, helps clarify math concepts, and fosters a space where all students feel comfortable seeking help.
Landau understands the importance of patience and clarity in teaching, always aiming to explain concepts “both carefully and patiently.” She finds value in revisiting foundational ideas to help students grasp the subject. During her years of teaching, Landau learned a great deal about teaching students when they are confused or lost on a specific topic or question. To her, the most valuable lesson is that “everything is an important question,” whether students are “asking what 2+2 is,” or asking a question on a more advanced topic. Her goal is simple: to “never make anyone feel stupid.”
Beyond academics, what makes Landau truly special is her commitment to students’ well-being. Her calm and reassuring presence shows students they, too, can succeed in mathematics. With nearly 45 years of experience at SHS, Landau’s impact on the community has been invaluable, and the Dr. Thomas Sobol Service Award is a well-deserving recognition of her continuous, meaningful work in supporting the growth and well-being of Scarsdale students.
