Nominate A Great School Volunteer

January 2009

Hannah Heyle, nominated by Carla Shere, College Planning Program Specialist

Hannah Heyle has made a huge difference at the Essex Street Academy for the last two years. She volunteers at the College Advising office one or two full days each week, working with the students there. In fact, when the full-time college counselor goes on maternity leave for the entire spring semester, Heyle will man the office on her own. Shere has no doubt she’s up to the task, calling Heyle “a truly dedicated volunteer.”

Angelica Rodriguez, nominated by Sherry Young, Parent Coordinator at P.S. 327

“For ten years straight, everyday, all day, even while going to college, Ms. Rodriguez has been a committed, loyal, and dedicated volunteer at our school,” says Ms. Young. Her many responsibilities include assisting teachers, working with the PTA, accompanying students on trips, helping in the lunchroom and library, and tutoring in the classroom. Congratulations and many thanks to Angelica for 10 years of volunteer service with Learning Leaders!

December 2008

Rana Abu-Sbaih, nominated by Margaret Sheri, Parent Coordinator at P.S. 102

In the words of Margaret Sheri, “Rana is a lovely, wise, soft spoken and strong woman who carries herself with a sense of grace, intelligence, and goodwill that makes everything seem possible.” She is an active Learning Leader and member of the PTA at both of her children’s Brooklyn schools. In addition to setting a great example for parents and students, Rana participates in the school’s Book Club and leads workshops, and never hesitates to take part in whatever is going on at P.S. 102.

Maria Gonzalez, nominated by Marisol Rivera, Parent Coordinator at P.S. 123k

For the last four years, Maria Gonzalez volunteered at P.S. 123k in Brooklyn. According to Ms. Rivera, Gonzalez, who has been a tutor, a lunch monitor, and an active member of the PTA , has “many talents,” and is always there to help wherever and whenever she’s needed. Also a crochet and knitting enthusiast, Gonzalez conducts craft workshops at the school as well.

November 2008

Quibing (Michelle) Liu, nominated by Mary Chu, Parent Coordinator at P.S. 160

Quibing has been a vital member of the community at P.S. 160 in Brooklyn for 3 years. She is a co-president of the Parent Teacher Association, conducts translation and interpretation when needed—she speaks three dialects of Chinese!—and organizes volunteer trainings and schedules workshops in conjunction with Learning Leaders. Both Mary Chu and Learning Leaders’ program coordinator Liu Yang are grateful for the support she gives to them, and recognize what an asset she is to the school.

Mary Ann Fastook, nominated by Marisol Rivera, Parent Coordinator at P.S. 123k

Ms. Fastook, a retired former college advisor, has been a College Planning volunteer with Learning Leaders for two years. She works at two different schools that are conveniently located in the same building: Bronx International and Urban Assembly School for Music and Art. As both college advisors are new this year, Fastook’s wealth of knowledge and experience have been invaluable. Moreover, reports Carla, she’s extremely well-liked; the faculty at Bronx International even invited her to graduation last spring as a special guest.

October 2008

Teddy Moskowitz, nominated by Mr. Tantillo at P.S. 130

Teddy Moskowitz has been a Learning Leader, working 2nd grade teacher Andrew Tantillo for more than 6 years. Mr. Tantillo attests, “Having Teddy in my room is like having a second teacher working with the children. He does read-alouds and often follows them with art projects using materials he brings in and prepares at home.” Teddy works primarily with small groups during writing workshop. Mr. Tantillo states, “I wish I had him in my room every day. In my opinion it would be almost impossible to put a monetary figure on his worth to my class and to P.S. 130.

September 2008

Annie Walker, nominated by Sherry Young, Parent Coordinator at P.S. 327

Ms. Walker, a former school crossing guard, has been volunteering every day at P.S. 327 in Brownsville, Brooklyn for 5 years. She works primarily with first graders, mentoring them, going on trips, and talking to the children about the importance of academic success. “I commend her dedication and her commitment to our school,” says Young.

What the kids say ...

"I never knew as much as I know now. Thank you for volunteering."
 Stephanie

"It is a good thing that you volunteer because it comes from your heart."
 Sarah

"My volunteer was very helpful. My English improved and I felt more comfortable in school."
 High School Student

"I want to thank you for volunteering. You taught my class and me a lot of different art. I want to try to be a tour guide and explain art to parents."
 Nelson

"Because I didn't understand math, I began to dislike it. The tutor helped me understand and I love math now."
 High School Student

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