Sarah Frye Mills, Syracuse Arts Academy South
May 6, 2026, 3:13 PM | Updated: May 19, 2026, 2:26 pm
“When Sarah was 17, she was returning from a trip to Bear Lake with friends. They were hit head-on by a drunk driver. Sarah was paralyzed from the waist down and had both of her legs amputated. Although her life changed in that instant, her goal to become a teacher never did. She persevered and became known as Sarah Strong! Sarah is in her first year teaching 2nd Grade at Syracuse Arts Academy South Campus. Not only is she a truly inspiring teacher (who is usually the last person to leave the building), she is the most positive, happy member of our staff. She loves teaching and loves her students. She teaches much more than the curriculum by her example. Her students call her brave and kind. They have learned about differences, strength, and positivity through example instead of words. I was in her classroom today doing an observation when a student fell off her chair. Instead of the laughter I expected from her classmates, I heard, “Ohhh, no.” “Are you okay?” and “Do you need help?” Second graders showing empathy and kindness for each other! Sarah Mills has been a light in our school, and we are so grateful to learn from her example.”
-Michele Parry
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