On Monday, Aug. 15, state Sen. Alexis Weik (R-3rd District) presented Eileen Tyznar, founder of TEACH Consulting Services Inc. in Sayville, with a New York State Senate Empire Award for Tyznar and her company’s outstanding devotion to the community.

Each year, the New York State Senate gives special recognition to New Yorkers who have contributed significantly to their communities in the areas of community involvement, leadership, local business, public service, military service, and acts of bravery and heroism.

TEACH was selected as a business that gives back, “whose acts of volunteerism, leadership, philanthropy, and innovation elevate our community and make it a better place for everyone to do business, work, and live,” according to the New York State Senate parameters for the award.  

TEACH Consulting Services Inc. has been an incorporated business since 2009, helping over 600 families across Long Island advocate for students with special needs. Tyznar has been an educational advocate for children with special needs starting with Sayville SEPTA (Special Education PTA) and now supports the community's children, branching out all the way from Queens to Montauk. TEACH provides services to children of all levels of needs, socially and emotionally, to help them maximize their full potential academically and socially in their school environment.
“As a proud small-business owner who knows the trials and tribulations that come along with ownership, I was so grateful and honored for the acknowledgement and this incredible award from Sen. Weik. I hope to be an inspiration to other woman, as well as men and younger people, that all of you can make the American dream happen!” said Tyznar.

“The NYS Empire Award honors local small businesses that also give back to the community, and that's exactly what Eileen and TEACH Consulting Services do!” said Weik, adding, “Students with special needs are often overlooked, and they require guidance from people who are experts in their field. Eileen is one of those rare individuals who works tirelessly for those children with special needs and never takes no for an answer."