The district congratulates four teachers who were granted tenure during the board of education meeting on May 23. Each recipient, accompanied by family and friends, received a citation and were recognized by their respective principals.
Tracy D'Amelio has been an elementary math specialist at Rhame Avenue School since 2019. Ms. D'Amelio was recommended for tenure by Rhame Avenue School principal Jack Bixhorn, who highlighted her ability to prioritize and build strong relationships with students and colleagues. He credited Ms. D'Amelio with the design and implementation of the Academic Interventions initiative and the successful transition to Next Generation Learning Standards curriculum.
East Rockaway Jr./Sr. High School principal Richard Schafer recommended three educators for tenure at the meeting.
Kristen Pisano has led the Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) program since 2019. She has been instrumental in developing the Culinary Arts and Nutrition and Child Development curriculums and took a lead role in designing the school's state-of-the-art FACS room, which was completed this school year. Mr. Schafer also highlighted Ms. Pisano's commitment to the school community, including extracurricular fundraising, club support and class advisory responsibilities.
Marie Cordero has served as a seventh grade math teacher since 2019. She was recognized by Mr. Schafer for her pedagogical aptitude and innovative instructional practices, as well as credited with the successful launch of the AP Computer Science Principals course. A lifelong learner, Ms. Cordero is currently enrolled in the New York State Master Teachers program and is working towards her National Board Certification. When not in the classroom,
Ms. Cordero, a former college athlete, lends her skill and inspiration as a coach of the girls basketball and flag football teams.
Kaitlyn Terrio joined the math department in 2019 and was recognized by Mr. Shafer for her enthusiasm, supportive nature and dedication of professional development. He highlighted Ms. Terrio's innovative use of thinking maps, exit tickets and other visual learning tools, as well as her integration of formative assessment techniques and her use of small group instruction. Many of the elements of her daily agenda have served as a model for her colleagues and as an inspiration for younger educators. She was recruited by the Class of 2026 to serve as freshman class advisor and is co-advisor of the National Honor Society.
Thank you Ms. D'Amelio, Ms. Pisano, Ms. Cordaro and Ms. Terrio for all you do for our students and the East Rockaway Schools community!
Date Added: 6/1/2023