Throughout the most recent girls flag football season, quarterback Char Ebeid ‘26 faced many difficulties with conveying her emotions and expressing critique. To overcome this struggle, Physical Welfare teacher and athletic coach Missy Mitidiero stepped in. As assistant varsity flag football coach, Mitidiero helped Ebeid learn to be a good captain and control her emotions in stressful situations.

“I would say that [Mitidiero] is one of the most genuine and selfless coaches I have ever met,” Ebeid said. “She puts her athletes and students above all else and truly teaches because she cares. She notices little things wrong with her students and athletes and makes it a priority to uplift them. She wants everyone to be their best self, and her coaching and teaching techniques reflect that.”

On Dec. 2 at the Board of Education (BOE) monthly Committee of the Whole meeting, Mitidiero received the second quarter Vita Plena Award. Her son, colleagues, and players on the varsity girls basketball team attended in support.

“[The meeting] was something I will never forget,” Mitidiero said. “I am honestly truly honored to be thought of in this capacity and floored that I was awarded this award.”

Recipients of the Vita Plena Award typically exhibit the traits of inspiration, creativity, kindness, and selflessness, Superintendent Dr. Brian Waterman said. Often, such individuals are exemplary in dedicating service to LT’s community.

“Through her dedication to teaching and coaching, [Mitidiero] exemplifies the spirit of ‘Vita Plena’—living a fulfilled life and helping others do the same,” Waterman said. “We are proud to work with [Mitidiero] as she supports our students and families, and everything she does embodies what the Vita Plena Award is about.”

A graduate of DePaul University, Mitidiero earned her undergraduate degree in Physical Education. Afterward, she proceeded to complete her graduate studies in Teacher Leadership at Concordia University and further her studies in Physical Education at Chicago State University. Then, in 2014, Mitidiero began working at LT in the Physical Welfare division. She has since taught multiple courses relating to Physical Education, served as a curriculum coordinator, and coached a variety of sports.

“I am very fortunate to be at a place like LT,” Mitidiero said in her speech addressing the BOE on Dec. 3. “[I] work with amazing colleagues who lead their classes with such pride and humility and support each other in so many ways. By giving me this recognition, it really is a reflection of our department, not just a personal achievement.”

Since the mid-1990s, the Vita Plena Award has been presented by the Superintendent of LT.

“Mitidiero was a natural choice,” Waterman said. “Beyond the classroom, her passion for athletics has inspired our students through her coaching of girls lacrosse in the past, and currently, girls basketball and flag football. We are honored to recognize her.”