Meet Emily (Agan) Zirilli, OCSD Alumna, Class of 2000!

Emily’s favorite memories from her time at Oneida City School District include the many experiences she had through Marching Band, Field Hockey, Drama Club, and time spent learning in Mr. Panera’s classroom. These activities, along with the relationships she built, helped shape her school experience and created memories she continues to cherish.

Following graduation, Emily attended Le Moyne College, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a concentration in Elementary and Special Education. After beginning her teaching career, Emily continued her education by attending graduate school at night while working during the day, earning her master’s degree in just three years.

Emily began her teaching career as a full-year long-term substitute in middle school special education before being permanently hired as a first-grade teacher. She later moved into a third and fourth grade looping classroom, where she spent nine years building lasting connections with students. She then taught fifth grade for a year, followed by fourth grade, before finding her home in third grade—where she has taught for the past ten years and continues to love every moment.

Although she describes balancing teaching full-time while earning her graduate degree as hectic, Emily found that her firsthand experiences in the classroom made her studies even more meaningful and enriching. She recently celebrated her 22nd year teaching elementary school and continues to make a lasting impact on the lives of her students.

To future graduates, Emily offers this advice: "Talk to people in person, make eye contact, build connections, work hard, and dress professionally. Develop a savings account and treat yourself once in a while."