Education is Life
MANHATTANVILLE COLLEGE SCHOOL OF EDUCATION ALUMNI MAGAZINE SPRING 2007
Greetings From the Dean School of Education Alumni Life
Shelley B. Wepner School of Ed Alumni Spotlights
QUALITY, INNOVATION, OUTREACH. These three words capture why Decisions you should take great pride in your affiliation with the School of By Brett Bowden (MAT ‘03) Education of Manhattanville. Quality permeates all that you and we do to promote our beloved field of education. I am what I am today Quality speaks about our reputation as a school that graduates students who know what to do to positively Because of the decisions I made yesterday impact students’ learning, and actually do it. Quality I’ll be what I’ll be tomorrow speaks about the abilities and dedication of our alumni, students, and faculty, whose commitment to Because of the decisions I make today educating our youth is surpassed only by their talent for doing so. Innovation speaks to the depth and breadth of program and professional development for teachers hese words are tacked to the bulletin board in my and leaders. Manhattanville’s education programs continue to be designed to address the needs of the classroom, right behind my desk. Just as I said they PreK-12 schools, and the teachers and leaders who would while in the Jump Start program circa 2002, and work in these schools. We actually are creating our T first doctoral program in educational administration (just) as they had been in room 209 at Franko Middle School at the behest of our local administrators. With the in Mount Vernon. They exist as a general challenge to my widest range of programs anywhere in the mid-Hudson region, we want all types of students (career changers, students — and just the other day, were used to introduce a at-home parents, traditional undergraduates and graduates) to find a fulfilling and enriching niche at speaker from Leaders Today at a school-wide assembly about Manhattanville because of the creative ways in which creating a We Generation. courses are taught and the exciting opportunities for Continued on page 20 professional development. Outreach encompasses all that we do as a School of Education to enhance our students’ lives Media Literacy for the Media Savvy: and contribute to the lives of PreK-12 youth. Because of our focus on and reputation for Quality and A New Middle School Curriculum for Innovation, our strategic partnerships with schools and the community are purposeful and joyful. Whether YouTubers and MySpacers we go to the schools or the schools come to us, we are constantly figuring out ways to educate both the By Johanna Mustacchi mind and heart. (MAT Elementary Education ‘00) It is no wonder why it is so easy to feel proud and excited about Manhattanville’s School of “Hey, Ms. Mustacchi. Is this stuff taught in any other schools? Because I Education. Of course, our alumni are our greatest source of pride because they reflect all that is great don’t think this stuff is taught in any other schools.” about their preparation to teach and lead. The pages So said one of my 8th grade students, only three weeks into the new that follow, written by and for our alumni, tell some school year. And I must say, I was caught a bit off guard. I had just embarked of the stories about how we live our mission that on a new journey, breathing life into a brand new curriculum, which I “Education is Life.” wrote, single-handedly, during a hectic summer of acquiring new, Middle Childhood Generalist Grades 5-9 certification, and cleaning, reconfiguring and decorating an old industrial arts shop classroom into my newest play pen: The Communications and the Media classroom. Continued on page 16 Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page Homecoming 2006 School of Education Alumni Reunion Event
The School of Education sponsored a Panel Discussion on “Balancing Values With Success” on Friday, September 29, 2006 as part of the Manhattanville Alumni Reunion Weekend. The Panel was comprised of Alma Brown (MAT ’74), Senior Vice President, Chevy Chase Bank in Maryland.; Monique Reilly (MPS ’00), SOE Adjunct Instructor and Fourth Grade Teacher; Dr. Rick Heckendorn, Manhattanville Associate Professor-Curriculum & Instruction; and Tabari Bomani, Co- Founder Bushwick Outreach Center and New York City Teacher. The audience asked the panel to what extent the designed their career path based on their values, how did the panelists identify their own values, and to what extend the panelists’ definition of success correlated to their values. The program extended will beyond the designated time, as the discussion was so extensive and interesting. The program was attended by a full house of alumni, students, and friends. n
President Berman and Alma Brown (top). Group with Panel (l to r) SOE Dean Shelley Wepner, Dr. Rick Heckendorn, Monique Reilly, President Berman, Alma Brown, Tabari Bomani
School of Education Guest Speaker
The School of Education Alumni hosted Michael Winerip, the New York Times (former) Education Editor on November 2, 2006. He spoke to students, alumni, and faculty on “On Education and On Writing.” Complimentary books of his book “Adam Canfield of the Slash” were available to program attendees, and Mr. Winerip had a book signing after his program. n
Mr. Winerip is an Honorary Degree recipient at the 2007 Manhattanville Graduate Commencement on May 10, 2007.
Page Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Our partnerships continue to program in Childhood Education offered develop in Bedford, Port Chester and during the day. White Plains school districts, and the We have been working at the Carver Carver Center. We also formed two new Partnerships Center in Port Chester using their site agreements with the Teacher Center at to offer our Literacy Practicum and work Purchase College and the White Plains Stephanie Coxen with their children that use the center. Staff Development Center. Assistant Dean-Operations The School of Education’s two For Bedford, we are offering newest agreements have been created coursework so that teachers can extend to help teachers with professional their certification in secondary education and foreign development and to support their leadership efforts. language. At Port Chester, and for our undergraduate Shelley Wepner worked with Ernie Piermarini, Director of childhood education students, we offered field-based the Teacher Center at Purchase College, to offer a discount courses in literacy, science education, curriculum, to teachers from the nine school districts that are part of management and assessment, and diverse needs. JoAnne the Teacher Center at Purchase College. Kathy Rockwood Ferrara, Christina Siry, and Mary Ann Reilly developed worked with teacher centers in Westchester to develop the and taught these courses so that our undergraduate newly approved 15-credit Teacher Leader certificate. childhood students could learn how to apply theory to Other partnerships that continue to thrive include practice, and vice versa. Two practicum courses were also the Devereux Millwood Learning Center, the Hawthorne offered for literacy, special education and literacy and Country Day School and the Windward Teacher Training special education graduate students that were taught by Center. At Devereux and Hawthorne, we continue to Steve Rosenberg, a long-term School of Education adjunct. offer an Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) program with a At George Washington Elementary School in White new ABA cohort beginning this spring at the Hawthorne Plains, our newest Professional Development School Country Day School. At the Windward Teacher Training (PDS), we initiated a new project: the PDS Fellows Center, we continue to offer courses in Multisensory Program. Four Day Start students volunteered to do all Reading and Expository Writing for Manhattanville their fieldwork throughout their Childhood program at graduate credit. George Washington. Day Start is a graduate education
Edison Professional Development School (PDS) in Port Chester Dr. JoAnne Ferrara coordinated a fundraiser with format included skits and discussion about bullying victims the student teachers at the Edison school on Thursday, and gang recruitment. March 29, to raise money to provide for a guest speaker The Student Teachers also worked alongside the for Edison’s children. They raised $400 from the sale of teachers to get the Edison students ready for the annual stickers, coloring books, and healthy snacks. The money Fashion Show Fundraiser which was held in April, 2007. will be used to host an assembly program for fourth and fifth grade students. The Manhattanville Student Teachers at Edison facilitated two parent workshops for the Edison Second Cup of Coffee Parent Group. The first workshop focused on homework help and the second workshop was about the dangers of My Space and Internet access. Outreach is part of the Professional Development School relationship between the Manhattanville SOE and Edison id outreach. Part of the PDS outreach efforts included an anti-bullying workshop for the 5th graders at the Edison School. Two of the NY Giants led the workshop. The workshop
Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page educated each other about what we Manhattanville College, and an School of Ed had learned at the local level. With MA from New York University, Alumni News support from Bellevue PTA Council, and an MS from the New York Bellevue Education Association (the Institute of Technology. Joanne teachers’ union), and the Board of is involved in many community 1970 Education, I made a proposal to the organizations: the Pelham PTA, superintendent, which he approved, Pelham Children’s Center, Pelham Penny (Worth) Genise (MAT ’70) for district-wide improvements not Art Center, The Manor Club, Two weeks after finishing my last class impacting budget, i.e. district-wide Bartow-Pell International Garden for an MAT at Manhattanville, when earthquake drills, creating a team Club, CCD teacher at St. Catharine’s it was still Manhattanville College of to meet with the Fire Department’s Church, Mamaroneck-Larchmont the Sacred Heart, I married my high Emergency Preparedness staff, and School District PTA. She is school sweetheart Bob Genise July studying with intention of adopting in commuting between residences in 25th 1970 and subsequently began the district’s science curriculum two Pelham, Savannah, Georgia, and working in Stamford, Connecticut curricula developed by the American Manchester, Vermont. Joanne is busy public schools as a third grade teacher Association for the Advancement volunteering, traveling around the and later as a reading consultant. I of Science, the National Science world and with various programs. retired from Stamford for motherhood Teachers Association and the at the time of the birth of our first Geophysical Union to educate Frances O’Connell Rust (MAT ‘70 daughter in 1976 but consulted students on relevant science. Now Psychology & Sociology, Certification part time for a school in Madison, my volunteer efforts are focused on N-6) is about to retire from New York Connecticut during the next year. Harrington House, a transitional University where she is a professor, Babies two and three arrived in 1978 housing for pregnant or newly and move to Chicago where she will and 1980, and for one year I taught parenting homeless women, and become the Senior Vice President in a French/English bilingual school a chapter of AAUW chairing its for Academic Affairs and Dean of in Larchmont, New York, team- Community Grants committee. the Faculty at the Erikson Institute. teaching mathematics, P.E., and art My daughters are quite grown Frances has an M.Ed. from Teachers in the lower school. We moved to up and pursuing careers reflecting College and an Ed.D. in 1984 also England a year following the birth their interests. Pamela, my first, is an from Teachers College. In 1985 she of our fourth daughter in 1984 and immigration attorney in DC. Hilary, was awarded the American Education returned a couple of years later, first married five years, had been doing Research Association’s Outstanding to Connecticut before moving to research in genetics in ophthalmology Dissertation; Outstanding Alumnus- Bellevue, Washington. The desire to when she decided to change fields Teachers College in 1998; and in maintain involvement in education altogether. She is now halfway 2000 a Research Award from the outside of employment led me to through a doctoral program at USC Association of Teacher Education. pursue volunteer work in areas of in physical therapy. Her husband Frances is a national Advisor to personal interest: Mike Noble is a software engineer the Teachers Network Leadership I ran extracurricular classes in with Hewlett Packard and travels Institute. Frances has two children French, Spanish, Japanese, German back and forth between Palo Alto and and four grandchildren. and science in elementary and middle Pasadena while Hilary is in school. schools, a rape-prevention program for Adrienne, number three, works for 1972 female students and faculty members two research labs in the cardiology in two high schools, served on the department of a hospital in Boston Catherine M. Francomano-Renza District Development Team to create while pursuing an MBA at Simmons (MAT History ’72) is a retired alternative mathematics assessment College nearby. Victoria, the baby of educator. She is a Docent at the tools, and led three Girl Scout the family, graduated from Gonzaga Bangs Hallett House Historical troops. Noticing that schools needed University with a major in art and Society of Yarmouth, MA. Catherine more preparation for emergencies, I minors in economics and French. She is studying with Rick Flealy persuaded my then assistant leader returned to Gonzaga this fall for a (Landscape Painter) at the Cape Cod in my brownie troop, who was PTA two-year MBA program. We spend a Museum of Art in Dennis, NH. She Council President at the time, to fair amount of time on airplanes, for has exhibited paintings at Cape Cod create a Council position, Emergency work or fun or sometimes just to be Community College in Hyannis, MA. Preparedness Coordinator, which I together. Catherine’s daughter Major Elizabeth volunteered to fill. With an initial P. Renza ASAMC is a Surgeon Chief budget of $25, which grew to $75 Joanne Pickett (MAT ’70 Elementary of General Surgery at Fort Jackson, a year, I created a network from Education) is a retired First Grade Columbia, SC soon to be deployed to the 25 schools in the district, and and Kindergarten teacher. She Iraq – Afghanistan. we shared ideas and inspired and also has a BA in Psychology from
Page Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Christine Stiassni-Gerli (MAT ‘72) got her Masters in Humanities in 1974 Mary Lando (MAT ’84 Music Education) believes in bringing her students also from Manhattanville. Christine to other venues to perform because they need the experience of seeing is back on campus again and is now in things outside of Mt. Vernon. This past March, 2007 she coordinated the Masters of Writing program. She a project at the United Nations Chapel where her students joined with taught English at public and private another elementary school in Mount Vernon to perform at the Tillman high schools in Westchester County. Chapel Church Center in New York City. Mary implemented and led the Christine “side-stepped” her teaching Mount Vernon Showcase Choir and the Praise Dancers in an unprecedented career into museum administration. performance in front of a large group of United Nations delegates. The She served as the director of the concert was a message of peace and joy through music. Discovery Museum in Bridgeport, CT The other event took place in 2006 where the Edward Williams School and served as the CT representative for Select Chorus traveled to South Mountain School in South Orange, New the New England Museum Association. Jersey to participate in a joint concert entitled “Two Schools in Harmony.” Christine then became a small business Mary Lando coordinated this event with the music teacher at South owner for fourteen years running Mountain. The chorus also traveled to F.E. Bellows School in Rye Neck at Helping Hands, a nanny search the invitation of that school’s principal to perform a similar program. These and support firm in Greenwich,CT are great experiences for Mary’s students to visit, perform with and get to working with parents in Westchester know students from other districts. and Fairfield counties recruiting child Mary is always looking for other connections for her students to stretch caregivers for families. Christine has their sights beyond their school. Mary is very interested in connecting worked over the years as a volunteer with other alum from other districts who may be interested in joint music and board member of a number of local performance projects. Please contact her at the Edward Williams School at and regional groups related to church (914) 665-5070 or on her cell phone at (914) 474-8072. affiliations, and for different social and educational agencies.
1973 Teachers College. Joan was elected State of New York, she was Chairman to Kappa Delta Pi and listed in Who’s of the Educational Projects. She Kathleen Collins Reilly (MAT ’73 Who in American Women. She is a oversaw the educational program English) is currently the Director of tutor in an adult literacy program and that welcomed over 1.700 New York Training for the Tri State Consortium, has conducted several workshops for City students to the NSCD Museum which is a learning organization the adult literacy program. Headquarters. They dressed in that assists its member districts in Colonial costumes and learned about using student performance data as Dorothea Delventhal Schreiber Colonial life in the 17th and 18th a framework for systemic planning, (MAT ’74, Elementary K-6) is retired centuries. In 2006 her husband’s job accreditation, and continuous from her position as Director of was transferred to Newport Beach, improvement. Kathleen was Village Nursery School (1979-1995) California. Not knowing anyone in previously an English teacher in in Chappaqua, NY. She is working California, Catherine decided to keep Edgemont High School in Scarsdale. at local preschools and volunteers. busy with substitute teaching. She is She was recognized in 1999 for Dorothea has five children and no subbing at the Harbor Day School Outstanding Contribution to Regional twenty-one grandchildren. in Corona del Mar. She thanks Partnership of Schools and Colleges Manhattanville for a fun and exciting by Purchase College, SUNY; New Catherine McCreary Strauch (MAT career in education. York State Educator of Excellence; ’74) was hired by Saint David’s Influential High School Teacher School, an all boy’s private school 1977 in 1997 by Dartmouth College and in Manhattan after graduating from Inspirational High School Teacher in Manhattanville. She taught at Isabelle Carino Birdsall (MAT ’77) 1994f by Tufts University. this school for over thirty years as a is a retired teacher as of June, 2006. classroom teacher in kindergarten, She was a team Leader for Grade 6 1974 first and second grades. Catherine in the Port Chester School District. later developed a science curriculum She is currently Assistant to the PREP Joan Beller (MAT Elementary / and taught science in pre-school at Resurrection Church in Rye, NY. Special Ed K-12 ’74) is a retired through first grades. In 2005, Isabelle was Port Chester Teacher of classroom and resource room teacher. Catherine received a certificate of the Year for Middle School in 1998, She was also a VP for Marketing appreciation for over twenty-five years was awarded the Reggie Hairstein Answers Inc, a market research and of dedicated service to the school. Humanitarian Award n 2003. The consulting firm. She also holds an As a Board member of the national Port Chester Board of Education MS (Computing in Education) from Society of Colonial Dames in the awarded her the People in Education
Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page Award in 2007 and the “Going the Extra Mile” Award in 2007. Isabelle is a Meals on Wheels volunteer.
1978
Deb Peterson (MAT ’78 Music Education) is retired after 33 years of teaching as the Vocal Music Director at Haldane Central School. She also has a Financial Planning Certificate from Marist College. Deb moved to Florida for retirement. Deb is the VP of NYSUT Council 43 of Retired Teachers in Florida, the Marketing Director of the Platinum Coast Chorus, and is a member of the Melbourne Florida Chapter of Sweet Adelines International. She is a member of a group of women called Soldier Moms: this group supports a unit of soldiers in Iraq by sending weekly letters and Gayle Sporn (MAT Art K-12 ’00) teaches Art at the French-American School in Larchmont, NY. She entered her first graders in the Art Conetes at the French Embassy in New York City. Three monthly packages of personal items. of her students were winners and their paintings were based on Paul Cezanne as the contest Deb’s daughters Keva and Kiera will had to do with Impressionism. both be married during 2007. 1991 the Year in 2002 and 2007. His daughter 1982 Leigh graduated from Vanderbilt Rosa Taylor (MPS ESL ’91) is the University in the Spring, 2007. Frank J. Orfei (MAT ’82) is a high Principal of the Park Avenue School school history teacher in the Pelham in Port Chester. Rosa is certified 1995 School District and is the Union in Bilingual Education N-6, ESL, President. Frank received the Elementary N-6 and SAS. She is Christopher Giam (MAT ’95) is an Westchester County Outstanding a member of Congresswoman Nita Art Teacher at the George Fischer Social Studies Teacher Award. HE is Lowey’s Hispanic Advisory Board. Middle School in the Carmel Central involved in Teacher Union activities School District. He also was a Fine and NYSUT. Frank is married to Gail 1992 Arts major at Ithaca College and has a M. Orfa, has a son Adam who is 17 BFA from Pratt Institute. He worked and a daughter Gabrielle who is 16. Susan Cargill (MAT Elementary as an Art Director, Graphic Designer Education, Reading ’92) is an Adjunct and Illustrator before teaching. He 1984 Instructor at DeSales University continues his work in Fine Art in Center Valley, PA for the past and is a member of an Art Club. Mary A. Lando (MA ‘84 Music four years. She has taught courses Christopher is also a member of the Education) has been a music teacher in elementary science methods and Mid-Hudson Road Runners. for 27 years at the Edward Williams early childhood education. Susan School in the Mt. Vernon City School also acts as university supervisor for 1997 District. Mary is very interested in elementary education majors in their bringing her students to her venues final semester of student teaching. Jane L. Wals (MAT ‘97 AA9N-12) to perform because they need the (See Articles) – (See Article) experience of seeing things outside of Mt. Vernon. Mary has been married 1993 1998 to her husband Carman for 22 years. They have a music ministry called James E. Carlson (MAT ’93) is a Deborah Darragh (MAT Elementary “SpiritFire” and will be recording a Department Head of Social Studies at Ed ’98) is currently a Fourth Grade new CD. (See article on page 3) Sussex Technical High School. James teacher at the Arlington Central was awarded the Sussex Tech Teacher of School District.
Page Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Shelly Whitlock Pope (MAT Elementary Ed ’98) is an Assistant Jane L. Wals (MAT AA9N-12 ’97) is a Digital Arts teacher at Pelham High Principal at PS 246 in the Bronx. School. Jane’s two computer graphics arts classes designed and wrote three Shelly had an MED in Leadership graphic art books. These books were published by an in-school facility and were presented to the Hutchinson Elementary School kindergarteners. One from Bank Street College and is th a DED Candidate at Fordham of Jane’s 12 grade students who will study education in the Fall read the University. 3 books to the kindergarteners. Then Jane’s high school students paired up with the kindergarteners and created a graphic name using Adobe Illustrator. The books were a huge hit! 1999
Christine (Jancski) FitzPatrick instruction for “at risk” students and grade teacher at the Park Avenue (MAT Science Education ’99) has a has been a Summer Enrichment School in Port Chester. Jennifer daughter Fiona born in 2003 and a son teacher. Kelly received tenure last has a BA in English from Fordham Edward born in 2005. She is currently year. Kelly has been working on University and an MST in Elementary working at Fitzpatrick & Sons Inc. as graduate coursework for the past Education from Fordham. She is a a Kitchen Designer. few years and recently completed member of Kappa Delta Phi. Jennifer her Masters +30. She is the Safety was awarded SUNY Purchase Teacher 2000 patrol Coordinator in her school and Center Professional Development is the John Marshall representative Curriculum Award Grants. She is Johanna Mustacchi (MAT for the district’s Environmental and married to Robb Dominguez who is a Elementary Education ’00) is a teacher Safety Committee. Kelly received counselor at the Guidance Center in at the Pierre Van Cortlandt Middle a Community Leadership Award last New Rochelle. She is the mother of School in Croton-on-Hudson and is spring and a Who’s Who Among two daughters: Jane who is four, and teaching a new curriculum on Media American Teachers recognition. Gwen who is two. Literacy for 6th, 7th, and 8th graders. Kelly got engaged last November Prior to this, she taught for 9 years at to Christopher Amabile in Disney 2004 the Carrie E. Tompkins Elementary World. He is an Executive Chef School in Croton-on-Hudson. Joanna for a company called Sodexho and Shelby Cromwell (MAT ‘ 04) pursued additional certification is currently the Corporate Chef for recently began a position as a courses at Pace University for Middle CNBC. permanent substitute at Lewisboro Childhood Generalist Grades 5 – 9. Elementary School in South Salem, (See Article) Iris Aldea-Pollack (MPS ’02 TESOL) NY. Prior to this, Shelby worked was recently appointed Assistant part time at a charter school in South Gayle Sporn (MAT ’00 Art K-12) Principal at PS 64X in the Bronx Norwalk, CT as their Reading Grant (See photo story page 4) which is a K-5 school of 950 students. Coordinator and managed an annual Iris finished a Masters Degree in budget of $100,000 to spend on early 2002 school administration last year from reading success for the primary grades the Bank Street Principals Institute. and planning celebrations of literacy. Larry Barruch (MAT ‘02 PK-6, Social Studies 7-9) is currently a Eileen Rosenthal (MAT ‘02 Samantha Larrea (graduated cluster teacher and anAIS at PS/MS Elementary Education, K-6 Samantha Jill Cohen), (MAT Visual 31 in the Bronx. He also obtained an Certification) is a third grade teacher Arts Education ’04) is an Art Teacher MS and an MBA degree. at Sachem Central School District. K-12 in the Eastchester School District Nicole Diamente (MPS ‘02) teaches 2003 Latin at Horace Greeley High School Victoria J. Romano (MAT Education in Chappaqua, NY. Nicole received a Brett Bowden (MAT ’03) (See ’04) Victoria is a Spanish teacher Fulbright Award and will be spending article on page 1) at Irvington Middle School. She the summer in Italy studying the Claudine Lespes (MPS Educational is certified is Spanish K-6 and literature, history, and archeology of Leadership ’03) is a French teacher at Grades 7-12. She participates in the the Roman Empire. the Brearley School. Claudine also has Manhattanville Alumni Mentoring an MPS in Languages, and is a member Guild program for 2006-2007. Kelly Horan (MAT Elementary of Kappa Delta Phi. She is an advisor Victoria did a graduate education Education ’02, BA Sociology ’01) to seniors in her school. She also has a program abroad in Granada, Spain has been a 5th Grade teacher at the children’s book that was published. in the summer, 2006 and is doing a John Marshall Elementary School Jennifer Carriero-Dominguez (MPS program this summer in Guadalajara, in Edison, NJ for the past five years. Educational Leadership ‘03) is a fourth Mexico. She also teaches supplemental
Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page Jill (Shankman) Valentino (MAT been a tutor for five years and will Roni Sarig (Current MAT Jump Elementary Education ’04) Jill is study abroad in Mexico in the Start) is graduating in August, 2007 currently an Enrichment Teacher Summer, 2007. and is finishing his first year teaching for Grades K-5 in the Wappingers at Millennium Art Academy high Central School District. In 2007, she Monique van Putten (MAT Early school in the Bronx. He teaches 12th received an MS in Literacy (Birth-6) Childhood/CH ’06) is an Early and 11th grade English. Roni recently and certification from Long Island Childhood Program Manager at the had a book published, “Third Coast: University. Jill started her teaching Long Island Children’s Museum. OutKast, Timbaland, and How Hip career in 2004 as a 4th Grade leave She left a Program Director position Hop Became a Southern Thing.” A replacement in Washingtonville at the Harlem Children’s Zone’s review stated that “THIRD COAST is Central Schools. In 2005, she Harlem Gems program to serve at the most thorough, wide-ranging, and transitioned to her current job as a full the LICM. Monique is a consultant exhaustively researched book yet to time tenure track position. Jill was to the Board for Trabahamos Head examine the roots and development a Coach for a special project called Start. She is developing Juntos of Southern Hip Hop.” Roni is the Odyssey of the Mind in 2005. Jill al Kinder program at Long Island author of five other books including was engaged on Valentine’s Day, 2003 Children’s Museum. Monique’s The Secret History of Rock: The to and married Michael Valentino notable accomplishments include Most Influential Bands You’ve Never in April, 2004. They had their first being awarded a Cultural Diversity Heard. His work has appeared in the child, Saige Angeline Valentino on Scholarship from the national Trust New York Times, Vibe, Rolling Stone, July 8, 2006. for Historic Preservation, a Keepers XXL, Spin, Salon, and dozens of other Preservation Fund Scholarship publications. The former music editor 2005 from the American Association of of Atlanta’s Creative Loafing, he now Museums, and a Fellowship from the resides with his family in the New Soraya Martino (MAT Spanish/ National Association for African York area, TESOL ’05) is completing her CT American Heritage Preservation. BEST portfolio leading to highest Sharon Senno has been a 2nd Grade level of certification in Connecticut, Stephanie Adler is most recently a 2nd teacher at Holy Rosary School in one of the very first ESL teachers Grade leave replacement teaching at Hawthorne, NY for the past five years. to do so. Soraya is a FLES and ESL Milton School in Rye, New York. She and her family recently moved to teacher in Stamford. Pawling, NY. Dea Alessandro got a new job in May, Kathryn Rosoff (PD Educational 2007 as a 2nd Grade teacher at PS 178 Fran Kompar (MPS Educational Leadership ’05) is the Assistant in Coop City in the Bronx. She is Leadership ‘06) is a Program Director of Testing in Yonkers Public very excited about her new job, as 2nd Coordinator for Media and Schools. She has a BS in Education Grade is her favorite grade. Technology for the Greenwich from Syracuse University and a Masters Public Schools. Fran also has a of Science & Reading from Fordham. Ellen Camillieri (MAT, Reading BA in Communications from Iona Kathryn won an award in Academic Certification K-12) is a second grade College and an MA in Educational Excellence from Manhattanville’s teacher at Oakside Elementary Technology from Fairfield University. School of Education. Her daughter School in Peekskill, NY. She has Nina graduated from Purchase College been a District Representative on the Cum Laude. Her son Craig was Hudson River Teacher Center Policy 2007 married in March, 2007 and her son Board since September, 2002 and Jason is getting married on September a District Mentor since September, Anderson Jones (PD Educational 22, 2007. Kathryn is a volunteer at 2003. Ellen’s daughter graduated from Leadership ’07) is currently a the Putnam County Humane Society. Sacred Heart University in May, 2005 math teacher at Mt. Vernon High She just adopted Silky, the dog of and her son is a junior at RPI. School. He also has an MBA and another Manhattanville Ed Leadership a Masters in Education. Anderson Alumnus! Marissa Coulehan (MAT CH was awarded the Manhattanville current) has been selected to School of Educcation Service Award 2006 participate in the NYSAFLT Leaders in May, 2007. He is involved of Tomorrow program. This includes in the Manhattanville MPALS Tania Grossman (MAT ‘06) is participation in 3 NYSAFLT events, (Manhattanville Promotes Academics teaching Social Studies Grades 9 and development and implementation of and Life Long Success) Program. 10 at Nanuet High School. a leadership projects and presentation Maria Ricci (MAT ’06 Jump Start) of a workshop by her at the annual is currently a Spanish teacher at meting. She is a FLES teacher in Valhalla High School. Maria has Harrison.
Page Education Is Life | Spring 2007 SCHOOL OF EDUCATION PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
News From the Early Childhood Education Department
Dr. Patricia Vardin
Many exciting events have been happening in the Early Childhood Education Department at Manhattanville College, both at the College and in the field. Faculty and students have been engaged in many interesting projects and activities. In October, the Department co-sponsored two early childhood conferences at Manhattanville College. On October 26, 2006, the Department co-sponsored the Westchester Child Care Council 2006 Infant and Toddler Teacher Conference involving over 150 teacher educators and Manhattanville students. Patricia Vardin moderated a panel on program evaluation. On October 28, 2006, have visited the model classrooms Kappa Delta Pi the Department co-sponsored the and have expressed interest in setting Westchester Association for the up similar programs. The Children’s Dr. Rick Heckendorn, Advisor Education of Young Children 42nd Rehabilitation Center /Children’s Annual Conference involving over Place school in White Plains is Kappa Delta Pi held a panel 400 early childhood educators, interested in setting up a similar discussion April 12, 2007 to highlight including M’ville students and faculty. program in 2007. 3 different partnership teams of Patricia Vardin served as a liaison During the fall, early childhood classroom teachers, teacher education between Manhattanville College and students continued to be appointed faculty, and Manhattanville students. both organizations. to excellent teaching positions JoAnne Ferrara and her students Patricia Vardin is continuing to throughout New York, including Erica Silver and Erica Tancora work with former Manhattanville Westchester County, and New York spoke about their experiences in the graduates and current graduate City. Edison Professional Development students in four sites in New York City This spring the Department School, Port Chester, particularly who are involved in the development will be involved in the Westchester their field experiences in the science of the Comprehensive Curriculum Association for the Education methodology course. Jane Gangi and Model for Early Childhood classrooms of Young Children 2007 Spring her students Jackie Moschetti, Erika and the use of ChildChart, an Workshops and the New York State Werbeck, and Elizabeth Eklund innovative system for monitoring Association for the Education of spoke about their experiences with children’s progress based on national Young Children Annual Conference. storytelling for all the fifth grade standards using a Palm Pilot and a We also hope to continue our students in George Washington computer. Manhattanville alumni activities with the Japanese Early Elementary School, White Plains involved in the project include: Mary Childhood Educators English (Snow Grant component), that was Formisano, Renee Ferrito, Allison Workshop in the late spring. part of the literacy methods course. Henk, Pamela Hellman, and Marissa The Department is also in Rick Heckendorn, Jonathan Dakers Columbo at Ascension School, Amy the process of developing the sixth-grade social studies teacher, Lynch at St. Stephen’s of Hungary Manhattanville College Advisory Blind Brook Middle School, and School and Laura Sullivan, at Council as well as an Early Childhood student Estela Moreno spoke about St. Phillip’s School in the Bronx. Education Alumni group spearheaded their experiences for the middle Numerous groups of teachers and by several Manhattanville College school social studies methodology administrators in the New York area alumni. course. n
Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page Announcing New School of Education Alumni Awards
Call for Nominations nominate. Self-nominations should be supported with We are looking for distinguished alumni who embody recommendations from students, peers, and/or supervisors. the missions of Manhattanville College and the School of All Alumni Awards and criteria reflect both the Education. Manhattanville College and School of Education Mission Award recipients will be recognized at the School of Statements. Education Graduate Awards Ceremony in May, 2008. Manhattanville College Mission: Nominations are being accepted now. To educate students to become ethically and socially Submit nominations to Laura Bigaouette via email responsible leaders for the global community. at [email protected] with an explanation of School Of Education Mission: how the candidate supports the criteria for the award. To educate candidates to become ethically and socially Nominations can come from the candidate’s students, responsible teachers and school leaders for participation in professional peers, and / or supervisors. You may also self- the educational community. n
SOE Alumni Awards Description Criteria
Distinguished Service Awarded to a SOE Alumnus who • “Gives back” experience and enthusiasm to current Award has contributed to the SOE through SOE student body by speaking at workshops, events, involvement in programs, events, panels panels, mentoring, and “gives • Volunteers time to participate in SOE events back” as an educator to the student • Enthusiastically and consistently shares experience, community. knowledge, wisdom, or research with SOE students and/or mentors • OR Contributes gifts or raises money for SOE in the form of contributions, scholarships or awards
Valiant Educator Award Awarded to a SOE alumnus • Career accomplishments illustrate examples of whose career and community promoting ethically and socially responsible leadership accomplishments reflect the with his or her constituency (Birth to Grade 12 or higher Mission of the School of Education students, Birth to Grade 12 or higher faculty or others and Manhattanville College by • Community accomplishments reflect the candidate’s contributing to the ethical and social commitment to promoting ethical and social growth to growth of the population he/she the population he/she serves serves.
Inspirational Recent Recognition for a young SOE • Must have graduated from Mville Masters program in Alumni Award graduate (within the last decade) the last 10 years for exceptional contributions to the • Has made an exceptional, creative, innovative field of education and/or to the contribution to the field of education community.
Alumni Innovative Presented to an alumnus who • For all Mville alumni Teaching Award has demonstrated innovative • Evidence that innovative teaching addresses the diverse teaching that positively affects PK- needs of students in the classroom 12, or higher education students’ • Evidence that innovative teaching positively affects motivation and achievement. student motivation and achievement through student comments and/or peer or principal nominations
Page 10 Education Is Life | Spring 2007 SCHOOL OF EDUCATION PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS MAT in Physical Education News From the Educational Leadership and and Sport Pedagogy
Special Subjects Department Dr. Rhonda Clements
Exciting Program Developments Question: What do a turkey carving knife, ping-pong balls, and Dr.Kathy Rockwood international sports have in common? Answer: They all represent success! Educational Leadership Based on response from current and potential students, we are in the The MAT in Physical process of developing more program options for teachers and practicing school Education and Sport Pedagogy leaders that moves toward a vision of a continuum of leadership program program was very active this fall opportunities. As of January the newly approved Teacher Leaders Certificate of in hosting three special events. In Advanced Study program will begin. This 15-credit program seeks to attract continuing with the need for our teachers who either assume informal or formal leadership responsibilities in students to become members of their schools, but who do not aspire to be school administrators. The program the regional physical education is being offered in partnership with the Lower Hudson Area Teacher Centers, association (i.e., The South who have been members of two-year collaboration with Manhattanville Eastern Zone Association of College around teacher leadership. For teachers who make a career decision New York State AHPERD), we change, the program offers the option to transfer all of the 15 credits into volunteered to hold the group’s the School Building Leader program that meets New York administration Annual fall workshop “Care to certification requirements. Share in Physical Education” in the Kennedy Gymnasium. This New Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership Association consists of 37 school Planning is underway for a Doctoral Program in Educational Leadership. We districts. This fall’s event offered are aiming for a Fall 2008 cohort but that is contingent on a lengthy approval 10 highly experienced physical process. To date we have made great inroads. We are attempting to design a educators as presenters displaying doctoral program that is practical and responsive to the needs of the region. their specialized teaching practices The overall theme of the program will focus on The Changing Suburbs and in the area of fitness, circus arts, Small Cities, building on a growing initiative that the School of Education active games, sport skills, and launched over a year ago. The following highlights key accomplishments: assessment activities. It was most • Terry Orr, a nationally recognized scholar in Educational Leadership, impressive that we had over was hired to serve as a consultant to facilitate the initial planning 100 of our graduate students in process. attendance, to view the many • We seek every opportunity (i.e., at conferences held on campus, talents of these physical educators. meetings at a school district) to confirm the need for a doctoral One presenter’s unique talent that program in the Westchester area. Initial needs assessment data from a also fostered much laughter from survey that was distributed throughout the region revealed that 73% of the audience included showing how the respondents said that they want a doctoral degree in Educational a physical education teacher can Leadership and that access will make a difference in this decision. use an electric turkey carving knife • We are exploring potential partners who might contribute resources to recycle old foam balls. Amazing! and expertise to the doctoral program. A meeting in early February will In short, we look forward to convene 3 regional BOCES to explore how we can all work together. continuingly holding this “Care to • A Curriculum Review and a Readiness Review will take place Share” fall event in the Kennedy in the Fall when a team of representatives will do a site visit at Gymnasium. Manhattanville College. The second large-scale Finally, we are in the process of developing a School District Leader program event was truly a rare event for to respond to the growing need of Athletic Director aspirants from our current physical educators and athletic physical education students as well as other students who want to assume administrators in Westchester district-level administrative positions. n County. Each year the New York State Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation Continued on page 13
Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page 11 SCHOOL OF EDUCATION PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Changing Suburbs Institute Social Studies Curriculum and Methods — A “Laboratory Education Class” Laura Bigaouette, Director-CSI
Dr. Rick Heckendorn
This class met in the Spring, 2007 and had five participants from Manhattanville College: Dr. Rick Heckendorn and his four students (two at the undergraduate level and two at the graduate level). The other participants in the class consisted of a John Dakers, a sixth grade social studies teacher at Blindbrook Middle School in Rye, New York with his class of 20 students. Dr. Heckendorn taught and modeled curriculum and methods of social studies. An important component of the course was where he was able to show effective methodology while teaching his students a considerable amount of content that social studies teachers need to know. The class met once a week at Blindbrook where the Mville students observed the social studies class, and the students had the opportunity to discuss the class topics and methodologies used by the teacher. Mr. Dakers also showed the Mville students the application of the Smart Board technology. Each college students was able to use his or her chose methodology to teach a twenty-minute lesson to the sixth graders. Dr. Heckendorn’s students felt that this course gave them the optimal opportunity to turn educational theory into practice. They were given the opportunity to teach a sixth grade class with the support of two expert teachers in an environment in which they had already become familiar (the sixth grade class) after having observed the development of the class’ course of study. They were able to complete their first teaching experiences with all the preparation, support, and feedback necessary to ensure their success. They also benefited David Valladolid addressing the audience from watching each other teach a sixth grade class and discussing the lessons The Manhattanville College before and after each student taught the lesson. In addition, they had the School of Education Changing rare opportunity of watching Dr. Heckendorn with the sixth graders, teaching Suburbs Institute was created in 2005 them a song he wrote and how he could draw these young students in such an to address the increasing diversity engaging manner. n in seven target school districts in Westchester County: Elmsford, Greenburgh, New Rochelle, Ossining, Peekskill, Port Chester and White Plains. CSI is a systematic, phased program for professional and program development for schools to help teachers, parents and administrators address the challenges of educating Hispanic students. Manhattanville has formed a CSI Consortium comprised of administrators, teachers, and community leaders that is developing action plans across the seven districts to achieve CSI’s objectives. The CSI Consortium, which Dr. Heckendorn’s class: (L to r): Phillip Berg, Janette Taylor, Estela Morena-Bosketti, Ann Marie Vitale, Sr. Rick Heckendorn meets bimonthly, has identified priority action plans for teachers and staff professional development. The
Page 12 Education Is Life | Spring 2007 SCHOOL OF EDUCATION PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Consortium has determined that This program was launched on March achievement; (2) work collaboratively literacy should be its major focus 2, 2007 with a Leadership Conference with these stakeholders to develop for 2006-2007 because of its impact held at Manhattanville College. and assess programs that are both on learning across the curriculum David Valladolid, President or Parents experimental in design and validated and across grade levels. The CSI Institute for Quality Education by prior research; and (3) bring greater Consortium is in the process of (PIQE) was the keynote speaker. awareness to the achievement gap identifying successful literacy Andy Spano, the Westchester County challenges that exist in school districts initiatives and establishing specific Executive, addressed the parents heretofore under the radar screen literacy plans within and across CSI during lunch. Over 120 parents and of the general public so that time, districts. community organizations attended the attention, and resources are provided Mville was awarded a grant for event. The event was co-sponsored to begin to close the gap. As a result, its Literacy, Science and the Arts and organized in collaboration with Manhattanville will enhance its project in the George Washington the Westchester Advisory Board and ability to develop teacher candidates Elementary Professional Development the CSI school districts. because of its increased interaction School in the CSI White Plains CSI is beginning to capture the with and understanding of high school district. Professors Annemarie attention of government leaders, needs school districts. For example, Bettica, Jane Gangi and Mary Hispanic organizations and key Manhattanville is already providing Ann Reilly are implementing this educators. CSI Manhattanville additional multicultural experiences program at the school, as described leadership has been invited to for teacher candidates. in the column from the Literacy community and school district To continue and sustain CSI’s Department. This Snow Grant meetings to participate in discussions community involvement and provides funds for all fifth grade related to the education and visibility, Manhattanville CSI is students to work with Manhattanville assessment of Hispanic students. holding its second annual CSI Faculty and undergraduate students in On November 16, 2006 CSI Conference on Friday, June 8, 2007. an integrated learning experience that was honored by LATYN (Latino Dr. Linda Darling- Hammond, an involves literacy development through Administrators, Teachers, and expert on teaching quality, and school storytelling, science through forensic CSEA of Yonkers Network) as the reform and educational equity from exploration, and the arts through recipient of the Aguila Award for Stanford University, and Dr. Robert finger painting and poetry. “exemplary leadership and educational MacNaughton, Superintendent, Another important initiative commitment to improving the Ramapo Central School District, will that CSI launched this year was the educational opportunities of Latino be the keynote speakers. Senator Suzi Parents Leadership Institute. The students.” Oppenheimer and County Executive education of Latino parents about Manhattanville’s role with CSI Andy Spano will be at this event to the US educational system is key is to (1) bring together stakeholders address the audience. The event is and foundational to any program and involved in and interested in being held at Manhattanville College initiative that CSI will implement. promoting Hispanic students’ and consists of a full day of workshops and speakers. President Richard Berman welcoming the parents CSI Tuition Reduction CSI is extending a tuition reduction for School of Ed Graduate courses for teachers and staff in CSI districts (Elmsford, Greenburgh, New Rochelle, Ossining, Peekskill, Port Chester, White Plains) 20% tuition reduction School districts with Professional Development Schools (PDSs) receive 1/3 tuition reduction. These districts are New Rochelle, Port Chester, and White Plains. Contact Laura Bigaouette for information: (914)323-5482. n
Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page 13 SCHOOL OF EDUCATION PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
Conventions. Jane Gangi is our Education, at the George Washington News From the liaison to LitLife. Elementary School in White Plains. Literacy Department We are once again involved in During February, Jane Gangi did 15 many partnerships, offering courses storytelling workshops in fifth grade Dr. Mary Ellen Levin at both the Edison School and the classes. In March a member of the Carver Center in Port Chester, and Manhattanville biology department The Literacy Department at the George Washington School worked with the children. In April, continues its community connections in White Plains as well. Mary Ann Mary Ann Reilly did an arts/poetry through a variety of activities. We are Reilly is our literacy department workshop for each of the 5 fifth-grade involved in hosting and collaborating representative to the School of classes to help students capture what with Lit Life, a Westchester-based Education Partnership Committee. they learned and how they learned literacy staff development organization The Manhattanville Literacy during their storytelling (Jane Gangi that runs institutes featuring Advisory Board, representing eight and undergraduate students) and renowned authors of books for teacher Westchester communities, had its forensics (Annemarie Bettica and education. This semester our LitLink semi-annual dinner meeting in undergraduate students) workshops. presenters included Judy Davis, the November. The discussion centered With Mary Ann’s workshop, students author of The No-Nonsense Guide to on literacy assessment in the first used fingerpainting to express the Teaching of Writing, Georgia Heard, schools—what assessments are being their thoughts and then used the author of For the Good of the Earth used and what preparation is essential fingerpainted drawings as the impetus and Sun, Shelley Harwayne, author for our students. Mary Ellen Levin for their poetry writing. Mary Ann of Living Between the Lines, and Leah is the chair of the Literacy Advisory is now making a booklet of each Mermelstein, author of The Reading/ Board. student’s drawing and poetry for Writing Connection. LitLife presented Mary Ann Reilly and Jane the entire fifth-grade class. One of the first half of a Mini-Retreat for Gangi have been involved this her students’ drawing and poetry is Literacy Coaches and a Special Day spring in implementing a Snow scheduled to appear on the cover of a on the Teaching of Grammar and Grant acquired by the School of children’s magazine. n
MAT table display. We received numerous compliments and Continued from page 9 praise from the many other exhibitors and conference participants. and Dance conducts a state conference. This large- All credit for the third large-scale event conducted at scale conference usually takes place in Northern New Manhattanville College in the Kennedy Gymnasium goes York. This fall the conference was set in Rye, New to the graduate students taking MPE 5536 Play, Games, York at the Rye Hilton. I am very proud to write that and Sports in Historical and Cultural Contexts. At the all Manhattanville PE adjunct faculty and students request for an in-service training workshop by members contributed greatly over the 4-day event. A large of the SW BOCES Physical Education Consortium number of our graduate students served as presiders, and (47 school districts), graduate students within the class provided the much needed “muscle” that is required presented a complete evening of international games and for carrying large boxes, stuffing conference brochures, sports. More than 30 high school physical education and overseeing the conference’s “Battle of the Zones” teachers and administrators participated in Rugby, event. This evening entertainment raises money by Cricket, Finnish baseball, Mexican Flit, Russian Gorodri, charging all participants to purchase a button on behalf Birilli, Rounders, African Bolo Ball, Swedish Unihoc, of their physical education zone, and then compete in and the “All American” game of Stickball. Due to each a variety of “funzical” activities for an oversized trophy. student’s hard work and quick teaching pace, the in- Typical activities involve throwing ping pong balls in service evaluations were highly complimentary, and the small cups, shooting baskets under a time limit, and Consortium has requested an on-going partnership with creating unique “sport art.” The full conference evening Manhattanville College. n event raised more money than ever before, and new friendships and “teammates” were made. I would also like to thank Manhattanville’s Graduate Admissions office for creating the “best” (all biases aside) college/university
Page 14 Education Is Life | Spring 2007 10 to 15% of our students start their Department of Education for its ability Jump Start careers in Westchester or Rockland to develop strong, academically caring
James Finger, Director-JumpStart and Counties, and we are striving to teachers. The school was commended MPALS increase our presence in these areas. in particular for its relationship We are especially interested, and with Manhattanville College. As Susan Harper, Assistant Director- well aware of the national focus, of a result of this relationship, five of JumpStart increasing the number of students our students have been appointed, with Math and Science backgrounds. thus strengthening the faculty of the This fall, the sixth Jump Start This year we are offering 30% tuition school. cohort of teachers started their full- scholarships to career changers who The article below appeared in time work. With 69 “career changers,” qualify to teach Math, Science, and the United Federation of Teachers this was our largest cohort ever. While Spanish. news on May 10, 2007 and features a the majority of our students start Public School 119, in the Bronx student of the Manhattanville Jump working in New York City, about was cited by the New York City Start Program: n
“Coming Home” “I very much wanted to teach in the Bronx, teach a population that could very much relate to me, having grown up there,” she said. “Some of the people I subbed with in Westchester thought I was crazy. But I grew up New York Teacher like these kids; I even used to work with some of them as a volunteer. They May 10, 2007 need to look at me and see that I was them — I grew up there, had similar
experiences, went to college, became successful—and that they can do it, by Ellie Spielberg too.” Padilla says her childhood was somewhat sheltered. “My brother and In the afternoon, Tina Padilla would slip out of the posh headquarters of a I were the only kids on the block who went to Catholic schools, but I wasn’t Fortune 500 pharmaceutical corporation, eager to get to her destination. disconnected to my neighborhood, my street. It was tough; it was the South There was no time to lose. Every minute was precious. She hurried Bronx. I was born in ’68 so I grew up there in the ’70s, right around ‘Fort through the streets of midtown Manhattan where she worked, just east of Apache’ time,” she says, referring to the gritty, controversial movie, “Fort Grand Central Station. For now, she was leaving the corporate world behind, Apache, the Bronx,” a cop thriller set in the city’s toughest precinct. where she’d risen up so high, far from her beginnings in the South Bronx. Yet there was a whole other aspect to that neighborhood that only Instead of getting on the train to Westchester, where she lived, she insiders knew. “Yes, there was danger, growing up,” Padilla says, “but we were headed to where her heart’s desire waited, in a room filled with desks and a very tight community, watched over each other, could knock on a neighbor’s chairs and books in the Bronx. door for a cup of sugar.” The former TV advertising producer and current marketing associate at Now she feels endangered by an avalanche of paper. Pfizer was having a love affair with teaching. “My biggest challenge is paperwork, all the administrative paperwork, “I always volunteered to read to children after school; I was also active the deadlines,” she says. “In the first couple of months, I was crying one in Junior Achievement, a program for people who work in the corporate world Saturday because I was so overwhelmed.” to go in and teach New York City kids on our lunch break,” Padilla says. To the rescue came her 9-year-old daughter, Taina. “She looked at “I volunteered for Habitat for Humanity, building homes in Brooklyn; me and said, ‘Mom, don’t disappoint me, I’ve always wanted you to be a teacher.’” I was always looking for something, an outlet to fulfill a need. I knew my The highlight of her year was a unit on social issues that the class calling was to work with children. I always wanted to be a teacher but I just completed, involving discussion, research and a newsletter on topics bought into that whole notion that teachers don’t make money and have too like gangs, stealing, bullying and single-parenting, complete with articles, much work. So I went through two careers, made a lot of money, traveled. In editorials, poems, advice columns and advertisements. the eyes of other people it seemed to be a successful life, but I was never “This first year has been a roller-coaster, but I would never dream of fulfilled.” doing anything else,” she says. In 2005, Padilla made her move. She quit her job and enrolled in Jump Throughout all those ups and downs, didn’t Padilla have any second Start , an accelerated graduate program at Manhattanville College . “It’s for thoughts about kissing the corporate world goodbye? career changers, aimed for those who want to get into the classroom quickly, “The traveling was fun, the fancy meals, the good life, but I don’t miss it really intense course work three nights a week.” that much. I finally found where I belong. I’m in love with the job, in love with Padilla will have her master’s in early August. She worked as a the kids, in love with the school. I don’t even remember what it was like to substitute teacher in Westchester and has been teaching full time for a year work in an office. This is it!” now at PS 94 in the Bronx.
Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page 15 Curriculum print media, in 7th grade on television P.V.C. web site, adding a significant Continued from page 1 broadcasting and video production, number of additional pages for and in 8th grade on the Internet and teachers and other staff members. web site design. Feedback from administrators, I answered the boy as honestly as Through cooperative learning and parents, students and community I could: “Probably not. But it will be. group investigation, students explore members has all been very positive. In Mark my words, it will be.” the media in order to understand their fact, during our 2nd trimester, my 7th I am thrilled to be teaching society and how it sometimes exploits grade students were “commissioned” a brand new course for 6th, 7th them. An important aspect of the by the Croton Free Library to produce and 8th graders at the Pierre Van 8th grade year centers on bringing a television commercials to raise Cortlandt (P.V.C.) Middle School significant level of critical analysis to awareness within the community in Croton-on-Hudson, NY, entitled the Internet. Students are coached for the library. Eight 30-second “Communications and the Media.” A into becoming staunch judges of the commercials were aired on three cable media literacy course that brings the veracity and worth of web sites and television channels. mass media into the middle school data gathered from their Internet For a more in-depth description environment, and where students searches. of the curriculum, and samples of are exposed to here-and-now issues In addition to critical analysis, student work, including our two 8- that have relevance to their lives. students in each grade produce a page 6th grade newspapers, please Working on topics of special personal product: 6th graders create a class visit my web site: http://www. interest garnered from inquiries based newspaper; 7th graders a television croton-harmonschools.org/pvcweb/ on their strengths and affinities, news broadcast and commercials; and communications/communichome2. students in 6th grade focus on the 8th graders create and maintain the html. n MPALS for participation in Honors and AP freshmen from an earlier program, classes at their schools and leadership also funded by the Goldman Sachs positions in their community. This James Finger Foundation, that was housed at grant is one of the largest foundation Manhattanville. These students, also grants in the history of the School of The Goldman Sachs Foundation from diverse families with modest Education. awarded MPALS (Manhattanville In addition to supporting these incomes, taught and served as role Promotes Academics and Life- students, MPALS is becoming more models for our students. These Long Success) a $150,000 grant and more integrated into the fabric of students will be attending selective to fund operations and expansion the School of Education (SOE) – three colleges, such as Davidson, Harvard, of the program that works with of the teachers are SOE graduates and Rice, and Notre Dame. talented students, from modest two Assistant Teachers are currently This spring, with our first student income families, beginning in the 8th M’ville students. Also, SOE students now in high school, we will be starting Grade. We work with students from visit MPALS classes to fulfill their a Mentoring Program built around seven school districts throughout observation requirements in the career interests. Any professionals Westchester County (Bedford, summer when it is hard to find schools Mamaroneck, New Rochelle, in session. MPALS is also a part of the who would like to find out more Ossining, Port Chester, Tarrytown). Changing Suburbs Institute program. about this program may call James This summer we had 140 students on Of particular note is that this Finger at the School of Education campus for five weeks, preparing them summer we hired rising college – 914.323.5368. n
New Program Spotlight will be of interest to Manhattanville leadership positions. candidates who have a valid prior Programs, courses, and certification in another area (such as assessments are under ongoing review Accreditation and Childhood Grades 1-6, for example) with the purpose of better alignment Technology that is not in the previously available with standards of their respective 7-12 areas of Math, Science, English Specialty Associations. As data from Susan Jacobs or Social Studies. assessments are gathered, they are Also newly approved by New being evaluated to provide evidence The New York State Department York State is an Advanced Certificate for program and student improvement. of Education has approved a new program for Teacher Leaders, as Thanks to all students, faculty Advanced Certification program in mentioned on page 2. This program and staff who have assisted in the Teaching Children with Disabilities in does not lead to certification but is collection and review of data for this Grades 5-9, Generalist Option. This intended for teachers preparing for purpose. n
Page 16 Education Is Life | Spring 2007 SOE FACULTY APPOINTMENTS AND RETIREMENTS
education and sport, motor skill acquisition in children, New Faculty 2006 and sports skill development. He is ABD in physical n Dr. Ellis Barowsky has been appointed as an Associate education from Teachers College, Columbia University, Professor for the Special Education program in the and has an M.S. in physical education and B.S. in health Department of Special Education. He served as a Professor and physical education from Brooklyn College. in the Department of Special Education at Hunter College n for where he taught courses in the area of behavior Dr. Micheline Malow-Iroff has been appointed disorders for the last 32 years. He was awarded the Hunter as Assistant Professor for Special Education in the College School of Education’s Harold Laddas Award, Department of Special Education. She most recently was given for excellence in teaching. He currently is serving an Assistant Professor in the Department of Elementary as a consultant for the Office of the Public Defender for and Early Childhood Education where she taught courses Rockland County, New York, where he serves as an expert in child development, the psychology of exceptional witness for individuals with developmental disabilities. He children, educational psychology and educational is a member of the board of directors for the Cerebral Palsy research. She has written about educational reform and Associations of New York. He is a licensed psychologist children with disabilities, health and parenting issues in where he focuses on traumatic stress disorders and issues childhood and adolescence, and cross-sex best friendship of resilience in children. He has written on a variety of influences on early adolescent substance use expectancies topics related to special needs children, including the use and behaviors. She received her Ph.D. in Educational of biofeedback for the treatment of disorders in children Psychology from the City University of New York, the and the treatment of sleep disorders. He received his Graduate School and University Center, her M.S.Ed. and Ph.D. in Psychology from The Graduate Center of the Professional Certificate inS chool Psychology from Queens City University of New York, his M.A. in Psychology from College, and her B. S. in Retailing and Marketing of Hunter College and his B.A. from Harpur College of the Clothing and Textiles from Michigan State University. State University of New York at Binghamton. n Dr. Victor Mazmanian has been appointed as Assistant n Dr. Rosetta A. Codling has been appointed as a Professor for the Science Education and Mathematics Visiting Assistant Professor for English Education in the Education programs in the Department of Curriculum and Department of Curriculum and Instruction for 2006- Instruction. He spent the last two years as a Professor of 2007 while Donna Tropsa is on leave of absence. She was Physics, Astronomy, and Pre-Calculus and Chair of the a teacher of English and Philosophy for the New York Science/Math Department at the American University Public Schools since 1978. She served as an SAT Prep of Kuwait. Previously, he spent 26 years as an Advanced Instructor for Mega Academy, Queens, New York, and Placement Physics Teacher at Greenwich High School an adjunct faculty member for Queens College where she in Greenwich, Connecticut. In this position, he designed taught literature and Freshman English. She has researched and conducted the honors physics program and served as and written about the writing of Toni Morrison, and is an advisor to student teams participating in the Junior currently writing about classical African and contemporary Engineering Technical Society and the Physics Bowl. African-American literature. She received a Ph.D. in He has published on topics such as improving science American Literature from Bircham University, Spain, education and gender equity in math and science. He an M.Ed. in English Education and an M.A. in Special received his Ed.D. in Secondary Science Education at Education from Teachers College, Columbia University, Columbia University, his M.S. in Science Education at an M.A. in English Higher Education from New York Fairfield University, and his B.S. in Physcias at Haigazian University, and a B.A. in English from Queens College. University, Beirut, Lebanon. n n Mr. Stephen Maletz has been appointed as a half- Dr. Rupam Saran has been appointed as Assistant time instructor for the Physical Education program in Professor for the Childhood program where she will the Department of Educational Leadership and Special also serve as a liaison for the Jump Start program in the Subjects. He currently is the owner/director/head Department of Curriculum and Instruction. She most instructor of Children’s Play and Sports Center, Rockland recently was a Writing Fellow at York College. She was County, New York. He was an adjunct instructor in an elementary teacher in Public School 156, District 23, physical education at Pace University and Brooklyn Brooklyn, New York, where she focused on gifted students’ College and chairperson of the physical education mathematics achievement. She recently graduated with a department at St. Francis College, Brooklyn, New York. Ph.D. in Urban Education with a focus on mathematics, He was also a health and physical education teacher for science, and technology in education from The Graduate the NYC Board of Education. His areas of specialization Center, the City University of New York. She has include teacher behavior and methodology in physical published on the testing movement and urban education, education, applying physiological principles to physical the reconceptualization of multiculturalism in American
Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page 17 urban education and the impact of Piagetian theory of n Vardin, P. (2007, Spring). Classic books for children. cognitive development and constructivism on education. Montessori Life, 19(1), 102-103. She received her M.S. in Education with specialization in elementary school mathematics from Queens College, Book Review and a B. A. in elementary education and sociology from Queens College. She also has a B.A in political science n Vardin, P. (2007, Spring). Review of the book, and sociology from Magadh University, Patna, India. Learning how to learn: An American approach to Montessori, Montessori Life, 19(1), 94-96. Farewell! Presentations The School of Education is sad to say Farewell to Dr. Andrew Dowling. He is retiring from Manhattanville n Clements, R. & Schneider, S. “Move, Learn, and College as of June, 2007. Andy is the Chair of the Special Play for the Preschool Child,” National Convention for Education Department and an Assistant Professor. the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Andy began at Manhattanville two years ago and in Recreation and Dance, Baltimore, Maryland, March 17, a short period of time, managed to establish himself as an 2007. outstanding professor. Students have commented that Andy is very knowledgeable, very engaging, interesting and n Clements, R. & Members of NASPE Publication humorous. Students also commented that they appreciate Committee. “NASPE’s Book Writers’ Workshop,” National his ability to weave his 30 years of experience as a teacher Convention for the American Alliance for Health, and administrator into his instruction, and believe that Physical Education, Recreation and Dance, Baltimore, his ability to draw on this numerous experiences has Maryland, March 14, 2007. contributed significantly in helping students to succeed with their graduate special education coursework. n Ferrara, J. “Sustaining and Developing Leaders in a Full- Prior to coming to Manhattanville, Andy was the Service Community School,” Panel Discussion, Thomas A. Principal of the Increase Miller Elementary School in Edison School, Port Chester, NY, March 21, 2007. Katonah-Lewisboro for 15 years Andy was instrumental in helping the School of n Ferrara, J., Siry, C., & Terracciano, B. “Preparing Ed develop and sustain partnerships with the external teachers to serve diverse learners: A PDS in a full-service community, was the faculty advisor for the Mville-Port community school” Presented at the National Association Chester Mentoring Program, and built and nurtured the of Professional Development Schools Annual Conference, SOE Advisory Board. Las Vegas, Nevada, March 31, 2007. Andy will be very much missed by the SOE department and students!!! n Lang, D. “Developing a Sense of Community: A Critical Look at a Cross-Cultural, Cross-National Early Childhood Center,” Critical Perspectives on Early Faculty Highlights Childhood Education SIG, Annual Convention of the Publications American Education Research Association Chicago, IL, April 9, 2007. n Clements, R. (2007, March/April). The three C approach: Encouraging children to play outdoors. (Feature Article). n Lang, D. “Free to Play Outdoors? A Cross-Cultural Today’s Playground: The World’s Authority on Play Comparative Case Study of Urban School Playgrounds Structures, Amenities and Industry Trends. 7(1), 24-29. for Young Children in Denmark and the United States” Faculty Lecture, Manhattanville College, April 18, 2007. n Saran, R. (2007). Model minority imaging in New York: The situation with second generation Asian Indian n Malow, M., & Steuewalt, K. “What Aesthetic learners in middle and secondary schools. In A. Singh Education Contributes to Classroom Motivation for (Ed.) Indian diaspora 21st century: Migration, change, Students with Learning Disabilities. Paper presented at and adaptation (pp. 67-79). Delhi, India: Kamla-Raj Aesthetic Education: Expanding Notions of Excellence Enterprises. in K-18 Learning Communities, a conference sponsored by the Equity Studies Research Center, Queens College n Ferrara, J. & Siry, C. (2007). Preservice teachers and CUNY, March 24, 2007. classroom teachers learning together: A collaborative teacher education program. Excelsior: Leadership in Teaching n Reilly, M.A. “Teaching 1st Graders to Infer: A and Learning, 1(2), 39-48. Workshop Approach,” Westchester Association for the Education of Young Children (WAEYC), Spring n Gangi, J. M. (2007, Spring). Multicultural books for Workshops. Scarsdale, NY, March 12, 2007. early childhood educators. Montessori Life, 19(1), 97-101.
Page 18 Education Is Life | Spring 2007 n Saran, R. “Asian Indian Students: Achievement, In the News Schooling, and Positive Stereotyping,” Annual Convention of Asian American Studies, New York, April n Rhonda Clements was quoted in “A Classroom of 6, 2007. Monkey Bars and Slides,” The New York Times, Tuesday, April 3, 2007, Section F, Health and Fitness, p. 9. n Vardin, P. “Creating a Positive Environment for Young Children: Reducing Stress and Conflict for YoungC hildren n Shelley Wepner was quoted in “Examining Our Public and Their Teachers,” an all-day workshop for early High Schools: Does Your School Pass the Text” Westchester childhood educators in the Archdiocese of New York at St. Magazine, April 2007, pp. 84 & 85. Mary’s School in Yonkers, New York, March 22, 2007.
The Manhattanville Alumni Mentoring Guild (MAMG)
The Manhattanville Alumni Mentoring Guild (MAMG)
Congratulations Graduates and Greetings to There is no fee, no observation or evaluation School of Ed Alumni! – just someone to offer support, encouragement and As you begin your first year of teaching or advice. There are also opportunities for professional continue looking for a teaching position, the development credit and tuition reduction on graduate Manhattanville Alumni Mentoring Guild invites level courses. you to become a part of our program. If you are interested in being mentored, are We connect our new alumni teachers with an experienced teacher who would like to mentor experienced alumni who serve as a resource and new teachers, or just want additional information support for new (and almost new) teachers. about the program, please contact Roberta Fisher at Mentoring is available by phone or email, and [email protected] or call 914-323-5484.n there are several meetings throughout the year, providing you with the opportunity to network with other beginning teachers and mentors.
Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page 19 Decisions behavior, with a particular interest in Decisions. Continued from page 1 the Holocaust and power groups. This year, Croton-Harmon High What could be better than School will hold its own Human Decisions... assembling 250 sophomores in Rights Student Institute as part of our workshops aimed at experiencing the Upstander Day event on Wednesday We face them and make them lessons of the Holocaust, firsthand?! May 23rd. Our students wrote a grant every single day. Why did you decide The energy at this event was palpable, from the community educational to read this article? Will you decide so much so that I decide to join the foundation - and will design, coordinate to finish it? I kinda hope so, because Educators Planning Committee of and facilitate 10 workshops on issues I need you to decide upon the kind the Holocaust and Human Rights facing their generation. Topics include: of world you want to see and live in... Education Center and help them Darfur, AIDS in Africa, Fair Trade, whether you are willing to become an with the important work they do. Child Soldiers, Gold & Diamond upstander. We function as an NGO and meet Mining, Torture and Civil Liberties monthly at Manhattanville to offer in the War on Terror, Homelessness Decisions... resources for holocaust and human & Poverty, Women Rights in Islam, rights education, present provocative Civil Disobedience, and Free Speech. September 11th helped me decide learning opportunities for students of We’ve invited students from Gorton to become a teacher. A couple of years all ages (teachers and adults, too!), and High School in Yonkers and John Jay after I did, a high school senior named of course produce the annual Student High School in Cross River to join us. Arielle Schwartz helped me decide Institute - which this past March took Already there’s a lot of buzz about what to establish the Human Rights Task place at Manhattanville. this day will bring. Force. And if she didn’t stop me in the stairway my third week at Croton- Last year at the Institute, we Decisions. Harmon High School, I’d be telling decided to create the aforementioned you about my experiences advising the “Upstander Day” throughout I suppose this is the part where I Sailing Club... Westchester and the neighboring close strong and ask YOU about the counties. (We even got Andy Spano kind of world you want to see. Are you An extra-curricular club, the to make an official declaration.)O ur waiting on the world to change? Or, HRTF believes that the purpose of primary goal: to facilitate the decision making small decisions every day to freedom is to safeguard it for others. for students and communities to evolve make a difference? Apart from saving the world on a from being bystanders to, of course... The best I can do is leave you daily basis, right now we’re focused upstanders. At our school, Upstander with the words of Margaret Mead: on coordinating the 2nd annual Day featured an evening of words, art “Never doubt that a small group of Upstander Day events (May 23rd ) - as and song where dozens of students thoughtful, committed citizens can well as the 1st annual Human Rights red poignant vignettes, performed change the world. Indeed it is the only Movie Marathon (May 20-21) at the live music, danced and provided thing that ever has.” n Jacob Burns in Pleasantville, where inspirational artwork to about 150 students from 27 local high schools members of the community hope to raise $1,000,000 for Darfur. About the Author This year’s Institute featured NBC’s Ann Curry as one of our Decisions... Name: Brett H. Bowden keynote speakers. She’s been to Chad School: Croton-Harmon High School a couple of times and just recently Shortly after becoming “human interviewed the Sudanese recently. Subjects: Advanced Placement U.S. History, United rights guy”, I decided to act upon an States History & Government, Inhumanity The workshop topics were provocative invitation to bring 8 sophomores to Facing History - and we moved ahead with the plans the Human Rights Student Institute Human Rights Task Force, Faculty for Upstander Day and the Movie Extra-curricular: at Purchase College (sponsored by Advisor, Student Faculty Congress, Member Marathon. It’s very exciting work, to the Holocaust and Human Rights Varsity Cross Country, Head Coach Croton- tell you the truth. And the best part... Harmon Basketball, Announcer Education Center located right here the kids are totally engaged, come up at Manhattanville). Actually this Contact: [email protected] with incredible ideas and action plans, wasn’t a tough decision as I’ve always 914-271-2147 x 544 and take ownership of global concerns had a passion for history and human Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center: whc@ that many adults would shy away from. bestweb.net OR 914-696-0738
Page 20 Education Is Life | Spring 2007 School of Education Alumni We Want to Hear From You!
Please update your contact information and provide us with any information that you would like to share in the SOE Alumni Newsletter.
Name: ______E-mail Address: ______Current Place of Employment:______Position:______Year Graduated from Manhattanville College:______Degree and Areas of Certification:______Additional Degrees:______Awards / Honors:______Professional / Personal Recognition:______Career Moves / Transitions:______Community Involvement:______Special Projects / Activities:______Notable Accomplishments:______Personal News:______
Please return to: Manhattanville College – School of Education Attn: Laura Bigaouette, Assistant Dean, 2900 Purchase Street, Purchase, NY 10577 Or via email at: [email protected].
Education Is Life | Spring 2007 Page 21 Upcoming Manhattanville Events
June 8 CSI Second Annual Educational Forum 8:30am–3:00pm, Reid Castle, Manhattanville College
Keynote Speakers: Dr. Linda Darling Hammond, Education Professor, Stanford University; Robert MacNaughton, Superintendent-Ramapo Central school District
senator Suzi Oppenheimer, Luncheon Speaker
county Executive Andy Spano, Opening Remarks
August 2 Substitute Teacher Job Fair (9:00 am – 12:30) Manhattanville College, Reid castle, East Library
Meet one-on-one with Westchester School District Human Resource representatives for substitute teaching positions in districts. This is a great job- hunting strategy – Create your reputation in a district.
September 19 School of Education Fall Reception 3:30 pm-6:00 pm Welcome Back SOE Students, Faculty, Staff, and alumni
September 28 – 30 Manhattanville College Reunion Weekend
“Education Is Life” SOE Alumni Newsletter Editor: Laura Bigaouette Assistant Dean – Outreach (914) 323-5482 [email protected]
Page 22 Education Is Life | Spring 2007