November 2011

Barbara Bennett, PS 123 in Queens; nominated by Marilyn Shimon, Director of Educational Services at Learning Leaders

From the morning bell to the close of school, Ms. Bennett dedicates her time daily to the students, teachers and parents of PS 123. There is no job too small or too large for this volunteer of five years, as her activities range from assisting during lunch periods to tutoring in the classroom – whatever is required to benefit the students. Although she does not have children of her own that attend PS 123, Ms. Bennett still attends all trainings and workshops to encourage involvement and set an example for parents. It is her love of children and desire to help others that make her a role model for all those at the school. “[She] is one of the most dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers I have ever met,” says nominator Marilyn Shimon, “She is an asset to the school and has impacted so many lives."

Lula McLean, PS 126 in the Bronx; nominated by Nancy Santiago, Parent Coordinator

How many of us know someone who has been a Learning Leader for over 37 years? Well we are proud to introduce you to Ms. McLean, a most dedicated volunteer at PS 126. Every morning she is there to welcome students to the school, escorting them to breakfast and distributing sporks and milk. Her day doesn’t end there, as she escorts late comers to class before assisting during the lunch period. Rarely absent and never late, Ms. McLean is always available and willing to cover for the school security officer whenever called upon. “She is dedicated to all our children and very supportive to our staff,” says Parent Coordinator, Ms. Santiago, “[She] is very generous to everyone, giving of her time and never expecting anything from anyone.”

Maria Perocier, PS 102 in Brooklyn; nominated by Pat Harner, Kindergarten Teacher

For the past three years, Ms. Perocier has been working with some very lucky kindergarten students at PS 102. Whether checking homework assignments, working one-on-one with reading and ESL skills or supervising group activities in the classroom, she always comes in with a smile on her face and a strong desire to help. One of the students she works with regularly has even been known to let out a cheer when the announcement is made Ms. Perocier will be joining the class for that day. “I have but one regret,” confesses Ms. Harner, “After telling my colleagues how invaluable [Ms. Perocier’s] services had become, another kindergarten teacher requested that she help in her room – I now have to share this treasure with others!”

Stacy Lee Chan, College Planning at Edward R. Murrow High School; nominated by Carla Shere, Program Specialist at Learning Leaders

Ms. Chan has been an enthusiastic supporter of the College Planning program ever since she was trained three years ago. Since that time, she has assisted countless graduating seniors with their college plans. In any given day, you’ll find Ms. Chan evaluating student applications, planning workshops, digging up college records and, of course, communicating with students. Let’s just say she knows how to effectively multi-task! Lauren Monaco, the school’s College Guidance Counselor, praises Ms. Chan’s attention to detail, meticulousness and impeccable organizational skills -- all key to alleviating the stress that notoriously accompanies the college application process. “[Ms. Chan] takes pride in all that she does, is a quick learner and is dedicated to serving our student population. She has been an asset to my office and to the community.”

October 2011

Yvette Torres-Schwartz, nominated by Joan Leung, Learning Leader Lead Liaison at PS 261 in Brooklyn

Yvette Torres-Schwartz is known to everyone at PS 261 as a dedicated volunteer who assists the school in a variety of ways that positively impact the lives of many. As a Learning Leader volunteer, Ms. Torres-Schwartz assists students and teachers throughout the school by helping children in reading, math, penmanship, art and dance. She encourages families to be involved with their children and to contribute to their academic success. Her passion to help students succeed in their studies has led Ms. Torres-Schwartz to develop a program called “Book Chat” to prepare second graders for the Book Talk program in third grade. She inspires her community and school to reach out to all the children and their families. Ms. Torres-Schwartz’s primary goal is maximizing the academic potential of all the students in the school.

Maud Jones Okine, nominated by Paulette Morrissette at PS 241 in Brooklyn

As a volunteer, Maud Jones Okine goes beyond what is expected of her in her role as a Learning Leader. At PS 241, she wears several different hats, helping in the lunch room and school yard, and even performing at the school. Fellow peers agree that Mrs. Okine possesses an extraordinary set of interpersonal skills that helps her communicate with parents and students clearly and effectively. A concerned and caring individual, Mrs. Okine inspires her students to do their very best, both in school and out. Her kind words of encouragement can lift the spirit of a child and motivate him or her to work harder in school and at home. Mrs. Okine has proven to be a valuable member of her community, her school, and Learning Leaders as a whole.

Barbara Watson, nominated by Pattie Musalin, Parent Coordinator at PS 65 in Queens

Like many Learning Leaders, Barbara Watson started out volunteering in her daughter’s school. A decade later, both her daughter and son have graduated, yet she remains a dedicated and invaluable resource in the classrooms of PS 65. Mrs. Watson works tirelessly to support both the students and teachers, assisting wherever she is needed. Helping out with everything from art classes to bake sales to picture days, she wears many hats in the school -- including that of Santa’s elf during holiday celebrations! Pattie Musalin, Parent Coordinator, sings her praises, sure to be echoed by all those at her school: “Mrs. Watson is a problem-solver and a steady, reliable presence in our school. She demonstrates an exceptional commitment to our community.”

Andrea Browne, nominated by Kathie Stefanski, Parent Coordinator at PS 30 in Staten Island

Andrea Browne has gone above and beyond the call of duty as a Learning Leader. As one of the original volunteers at PS 30, she assists daily during all three lunch periods as well as recess -- that is, when she’s not busy leading her Book Talk group with the 3rd grade students. And her work doesn’t end there: Mrs. Browne even started a Capri Sun recycling program to raise funds for the school! Ever the advocate for education, Mrs. Browne has notably worked to ensure that all the special education students are included in every offering of the school. “She is the type of person who not only offers assistance; she always has a solution. We are very lucky to have her on our team,” says Parent Coordinator Kathie Stefanski.

Rosa Guzman, nominated by Reina Verduga, Parent Coordinator at PS 228 in Queens

For the last two years, Rosa Guzman has been providing the community at the Early Magnet School in Queens just the all-around, extra support they need. Always willing and able to complete a task, she really does it all: helping in the classroom, performing lunch duties, creating bulletin boards and assisting during PTA meetings -- just to name a few! Ms. Guzman encompasses the true values of what it means to be a Learning Leader. As Parent Coordinator Reina Verduga remarked, “Her consistency and hard work make Ms. Guzman a reliable asset in our school community. [She] is an exceptional 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.