Annie Giovino
Assistant Principal
Annie Giovino is entering her 18th year as an educator in New York City. She began her teaching career at The Guardian Angel School in Manhattan, where she taught Second Grade. Following that, she taught Kindergarten at PS 170 in the Bronx. She is a founding member of PS 118, where she taught Pre-K and First Grade. Annie joined the administrative team in 2018 as the Assistant Principal. Annie loves working with elementary age students because she enjoys their passion for learning, their honesty and their sensitivity towards each other. She strives to make school a safe and enjoyable place for all.
Annie attended Loyola University in Maryland for her undergraduate studies, where she majored in Elementary Education. She earned a Master’s Degree in Literacy from Hunter College. She completed the CITE program, in which she earned a certificate in School Building Leadership and School District Leadership.
Annie lives in Long Island with her husband and three children. In her free time, Annie enjoys being outdoors on sports fields with her kids and running with her dog Scout!
Annie attended Loyola University in Maryland for her undergraduate studies, where she majored in Elementary Education. She earned a Master’s Degree in Literacy from Hunter College. She completed the CITE program, in which she earned a certificate in School Building Leadership and School District Leadership.
Annie lives in Long Island with her husband and three children. In her free time, Annie enjoys being outdoors on sports fields with her kids and running with her dog Scout!
Jaclyn Bernier
kindergarten Teacher
It was hard work and kismet that brought Jaclyn to the Maurice Sendak Community School as a founding member in 2013. Her love of reading began at an early age, most notably with the works of Shel Silverstein and Maurice Sendak. She earned her Bachelor's degree in History and Elementary Education at the University of Rhode Island and her Masters in Literacy at New York University. In addition, she has teaching certifications in Early Childhood, Literacy, and Special Education. Jaclyn has been teaching and living in NYC since 2006. She lives in Cobble Hill with her husband and her two wild things, Parker and Jude. When not chasing after Parker and Jude she enjoys museums, live music, traveling, and on occasion, a well-earned glass of red wine.
Meredith Hackett
KINDERGARTEN Teacher
Meredith is excited about being a part of PS 118's staff! Her background in theatre and education blend together to create a classroom full of fun, creativity, excitement and knowledge by mixing exploration and play. She is a big believer that it takes a village to raise a child and eagerly works with parents to create a loving atmosphere for all. After growing up in Georgia, she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Emerson College in Boston and then received her Masters in Early Childhood Education from Hunter College here in New York City. Meredith has taught at both public and private schools in Park Slope for eight years. She is a strong believer in public education and can't wait to start the new school year! She loves reading and exploring the outdoors and spends her summers directing and acting in plays for Brooklyn’s own Piper Theatre Productions.
Maria Masouridis
First gradE teacher - ICT & special ed
Maria Masouridis has been working in Early Childhood for over nine years. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary and Special Education and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education (birth-2). Maria absolutely loves teaching and believes in expanding children’s interests, strengths and abilities because what happen in the classroom matters! She is committed to creating a nurturing classroom environment where students develop a sense of confidence and commitment to the community.
She is a Brooklyn native who loves the diversity that Brooklyn has to offer and takes full advantage of it. She is fluent in Greek and has studies and taught abroad. On her down time, she loves to bake, listen to music, go to the beach and enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
She is a Brooklyn native who loves the diversity that Brooklyn has to offer and takes full advantage of it. She is fluent in Greek and has studies and taught abroad. On her down time, she loves to bake, listen to music, go to the beach and enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Heidi Sauberg
FIRST grade teacher - ICT - General Education
My true passion is having a classroom of children to teach and work with everyday. I enjoy inspiring students to be responsible learners who set and work toward reaching their goals. I strive to meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of all children in my classroom. Students have the greatest opportunity for success when they are learning within the context of a trusting, caring and respectful community. Maintaining a safe place to learn, allows students to take risks and share their own work and ideas. My goal is to facilitate learning in an exciting, meaningful, and engaging way starting from the very first day of school!
When not working, I enjoy memory keeping, reading, attending music performances of my daughter (17) and son (14), and learning creative baking techniques while watching the Great British Baking Show. An animal lover, I love taking walks with my spoiled-rotten mini dachshund.
I earned my MS Ed from Long Island University and hold a NY State certification in elementary grades 1-6.
When not working, I enjoy memory keeping, reading, attending music performances of my daughter (17) and son (14), and learning creative baking techniques while watching the Great British Baking Show. An animal lover, I love taking walks with my spoiled-rotten mini dachshund.
I earned my MS Ed from Long Island University and hold a NY State certification in elementary grades 1-6.
Yolanda Perez
First GRADE Educational Assistant
Yolanda is excited to be an Educational Assistant at the Maurice Sendak Community School. She is a Brooklyn girl who graduated from P.S. 29, MS 51 and Fort Hamilton HS. She is invested in working with children in her hometown. Yolanda has been an Educational Assistant with the DOE for over a decade. She is of Puerto Rican decent and is fluent in Spanish. She loves the way PS 118 integrates Spanish in the curriculum and uses Spanish with students to help further the 118 goal of producing bilingual students who are culturally sensitive to people who have different habits and ways of life. She also believes that students should respect different family compositions and students who learn differently.
In her free time Yolanda likes to draw, listen to R&B and read. She is an amazing artist who uses her talents to beautify PS 118.
In her free time Yolanda likes to draw, listen to R&B and read. She is an amazing artist who uses her talents to beautify PS 118.
Shanna Silien
FIRST Grade Educational Assistant
Ms. Silien is originally from Brooklyn, NY and received her bachelor's degree from Adelphi University with a major in psychology and a minor in education. She received her master's degree from Pace University and graduated with a dual degree in childhood and special education. Ms. Silien has taught a wide range of grades from Pre-K to 6th grade. She believes that all her students are lifelong learners. She is excited to meet and learn all about her students this year. Ms. Silien looks forward to providing new and exciting strategies to support student learning.
Ms. Silien has one older sister and grew up in a bi-lingual home environment.During her free time, Ms. Silien enjoys taking dance classes at the Alvin Ailey dance company, visit the Brooklyn Museum and art galleries. At times she enjoys baking cookie brownies with her friends.
Ms. Silien has one older sister and grew up in a bi-lingual home environment.During her free time, Ms. Silien enjoys taking dance classes at the Alvin Ailey dance company, visit the Brooklyn Museum and art galleries. At times she enjoys baking cookie brownies with her friends.
Samantha Cruz
Second Grade Teacher
Samantha Cruz is looking forward to another year at PS 118 and to be working with such a devoted and talented group of educators. She is most looking forward to seeing her students and forming relationships with her incoming families in second grade!
Born and raised in Brooklyn, she is a native to the area. She
graduated from Midwood High School and received her Bachelor's degree at Syracuse University (Go Orange!) in Early Childhood and Special Education. Previously she's taught Pre-K, 1st grade, 3rd grade, and served as a special education provider. She believes in meeting children where they are, building character and morals, and holding all learners to high standards.
In her free time she enjoys getting outdoors and exploring, cooking, crafting and spending time with her friends and family.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, she is a native to the area. She
graduated from Midwood High School and received her Bachelor's degree at Syracuse University (Go Orange!) in Early Childhood and Special Education. Previously she's taught Pre-K, 1st grade, 3rd grade, and served as a special education provider. She believes in meeting children where they are, building character and morals, and holding all learners to high standards.
In her free time she enjoys getting outdoors and exploring, cooking, crafting and spending time with her friends and family.
Trilby Walsh
Second grade EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANT
Trilby has over 8 years of experience working in our local neighborhood elementary and pre-schools including Bean Sprouts, P.S. 321 and P.S. 10. She had a wide variety of roles at these schools and really enjoys working with students, parents and faculty. A life-long resident of Park Slope, Trilby’s two sons are graduates of the local community’s public schools, and prior to her work in the school system Trilby had extensive management experience working in the tennis industry. For 15 years she was an Operations Manager at several of the largest tennis clubs in New York to provide excellent customer service to members.
Working closely with the Principal and Teachers to involve parents, Trilby brings her many experiences to P.S. 118 to create a welcoming and responsive environment for parents and students.
Trilby has a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education from Brooklyn College and is working towards her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.
Working closely with the Principal and Teachers to involve parents, Trilby brings her many experiences to P.S. 118 to create a welcoming and responsive environment for parents and students.
Trilby has a Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education from Brooklyn College and is working towards her Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education.
Regina Rodgers
Third Grade Teacher
I grew up in a small town in Eastern Long Island. After graduating college, it was always a dream of mine to move to NYC and become a teacher and that's exactly what I did! I have been living in Park Slope for a few years now. I am excited to be a part of a school in this amazing community. I received my Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Child Study at St. Joseph's College, Long Island. I am certified in Early Childhood, Childhood, Special Education Early Childhood, and Special Education Childhood. I also earned a Master’s of Science in Childhood Mathematics. My love for teaching began when I was a young girl. I am patient and caring with my students and I work hard to meet the needs of each child. It is important to me that every one of my students knows and understands how special and unique they are. In my downtime, I enjoy spending my time with my close friends and family. One of my two brothers ( I am the baby of three) lives in Clinton Hill and I love spending time with him and exploring the neighborhoods (and restaurants) of Brooklyn. I also enjoy traveling and baking scones!
Jordan Buckley
Third Grade Educational Assistant
Jordan Buckley, a Park Slope Native, is thrilled to embark on his journey with the Maurice Sendak Community School. Currently pursuing his Bachelors, he brings a fresh perspective and eagerness to contribute to the educational environment. Excited to collaborate with dedicated educators, Jordan's interests span social media marketing, basketball, and fitness, adding a diverse touch to his profile. His enthusiasm and commitment make him a valuable addition to the Maurice Sendak community as he looks forward to the opportunities for growth and collaboration that lie ahead.
Jessica Arnold
Fourth Grade Teacher
Jessica Arnold is excited to be back at PS 118 in 4th grade! She has been teaching for ten years, after graduating with a B.A. in Film/Media Studies from the University of Rochester and a Master’s Degree in Childhood Education from CUNY Hunter College. Her love of teaching stems from the many wonderful educators she has been taught and inspired by, especially her mom.
Jessica loves to see her students discover new interests, challenge themselves and take risks, and grow into inquisitive, enthusiastic learners. She strives to make her classroom a place of engagement, excitement, and opportunity.
Jessica’s passion for working with children has led her from working as a summer camp counselor of arts/crafts and theatre, to a tutor, to a Child Guardian at many Broadway shows; she is currently working with four amazing child actors backstage at The Lion King! In her spare time, she enjoys baking, photography, drawing, going to the movies, and traveling. She is thrilled to be able to share her other passion, teaching, with the wonderful PS 118 community.
Jessica loves to see her students discover new interests, challenge themselves and take risks, and grow into inquisitive, enthusiastic learners. She strives to make her classroom a place of engagement, excitement, and opportunity.
Jessica’s passion for working with children has led her from working as a summer camp counselor of arts/crafts and theatre, to a tutor, to a Child Guardian at many Broadway shows; she is currently working with four amazing child actors backstage at The Lion King! In her spare time, she enjoys baking, photography, drawing, going to the movies, and traveling. She is thrilled to be able to share her other passion, teaching, with the wonderful PS 118 community.
Jon Goldberg
4th Grade Teacher
I am thrilled to share the bio of our newest classroom teacher Jon!: I am so excited to be joining the PS 118 community as a first-year teacher, after a year as a substitute and student teacher at PS 321. I come from a long career as a writer and creative director but always had the teaching bug in my system. Finally, I followed that passion by enrolling at Bank Street College of Education, where I recently received a Master’s Degree in Childhood General Education. I was born in Birmingham, Alabama, and moved to the Upper West Side of Manhattan when I was 8 (which wasn't a big change at all). I attended Tulane University in New Orleans, where I received a B.A. degree in English. For the last 20 years, I have lived in Park Slope/Windsor Terrace with my kids, Lucy, 15, and Charlie, 19, as well as our Labradoodle, Lotta, 10. In my spare time, I love playing basketball, going to the movies, and suffering as a Knicks fan (this is the year!). I can't wait to be a part of this incredible community and aim to create a classroom filled with joy, critical thinking, and a love of learning.
Gabriel Goris
Fifth Grade Teacher -ICT General ed
Gabriel Goris is absolutely excited to be a part of the PS 118 community! Born and raised in the Lower East Side in Manhattan, he is a proud graduate of the New York City Public School System. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Pace University and a Master’s Degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from CUNY City College.
Gabriel has taught 6th and 7th grade English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Technology. When he is not teaching, he enjoys cooking and trying different cuisines (he considers himself a foodie) and he loves traveling around the world.
Gabriel has taught 6th and 7th grade English Language Arts, Social Studies, and Technology. When he is not teaching, he enjoys cooking and trying different cuisines (he considers himself a foodie) and he loves traveling around the world.
Akane Merlo
FIFth grade teacher - ICT - Special Education
Akane is thrilled to be part of the Maurice Sendak community. She graduated with a B.S. in Special Education and International Studies from University of Miami and earned her Masters Degree from Teachers College at Columbia University. Prior to joining the team as an ICT/SETSS teacher, Akane worked as a special education teacher in ICT settings for ten years in Queens.
Akane is committed to student success through building strong relationships with students, parents, classroom teachers and service providers. She strives to address each child’s learning needs to ensure they are successful.
Born in Japan, raised in Malaysia and Indonesia, Akane has always enjoyed traveling. She lives in Park Slope with her husband and her daughter.
Akane is committed to student success through building strong relationships with students, parents, classroom teachers and service providers. She strives to address each child’s learning needs to ensure they are successful.
Born in Japan, raised in Malaysia and Indonesia, Akane has always enjoyed traveling. She lives in Park Slope with her husband and her daughter.
Patrice Robinson
FIFTH Grade Educational Assistant
I am excited to start my second year at P.S. 118 as an Educational Assistant, working with Ms. Meredith in first grade! Raised in Brooklyn and also a Brooklyn Friends School Alumn, I look forward to helping to further the educational and emotional growth of our students. I am also a visual artist who primarily paints oil paintings of friends, family and the occasional housepet. In my free time I enjoy exploring our beautiful city, reading and cooking.
Kevin Steinmuller
Fifth Grade Teacher
Kevin Steinmuller is so excited to be a part of the Maurice Sendak family! He is looking forward to another amazing year of helping students grow.
Originally from NY, Kevin has fondly called Brooklyn his home for over 12 years. He received his Master’s degree in Childhood Education from Hunter College.
Free time is family time for Kevin, including traveling, dining out, and exploring NYC. He lives with his wife and daughter in Park Slope.
Originally from NY, Kevin has fondly called Brooklyn his home for over 12 years. He received his Master’s degree in Childhood Education from Hunter College.
Free time is family time for Kevin, including traveling, dining out, and exploring NYC. He lives with his wife and daughter in Park Slope.
Alex AYoub
Fifth Grade Educational Assistant
We're pleased to welcome Alexander Ayoub into a full-time paraprofessional role at P.S. 118. A Brooklyn native, Alex has seamlessly integrated into our community over the past four years, serving as a substitute para during his college breaks. Fresh from Oberlin Conservatory with a degree in Trumpet Performance, Alex is deeply passionate about all things music-related: from teaching and playing to simply listening. When he's not giving private lessons or performing at gigs, Alex finds joy in cooking, savoring meals, and spending quality time with friends and family.
Nicholas GalletTa
Special Education teacher - SEtsS
Nicholas Galetta is thrilled to rejoin the P.S. 118 team this year as its SETSS teacher, having previously made a marked impact during his semester with the school. His collaboration with staff was instrumental in advancing the learning and skills of the students he interacted with. Initiating his educational journey in 2009 with the Department of Education, Nicholas secured a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and History from CUNY: College of Staten Island, and subsequently, a Master's in General/Special Education from Touro College. Presently enrolled in a graduate program for Licensed Mental Health Counseling at NYU, he's primed to cater to both the academic and social-emotional requirements of his students. Embracing the principle of lifelong learning, Nicholas places great importance on a comprehensive teaching strategy that nurtures every aspect of a student's development.
Arlene Osuna-Ayoub
Certified teacher and para all grades
Several years ago Principal Garraway told me of her dream to a start a school imbued with the Spanish language. Little did I know that one day I would be joining the dynamic community at PS118!
As a child of immigrant parents from Honduras and Argentina, I spoke Spanish at home and formally studied it in college. I attended NYU and earned a B.A in French and History, where I also studied Italian. I went on to learn Portuguese while working in private banking, traveling extensively in Latin America.
Raised in Brooklyn myself, I chose to raise my own family in this multi-cultural community. When my now teenage children were born, I elected to become a stay at home mom. I became interested in helping special needs children through various experiences with friends and family over the years.
I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, scrap-booking, and I am passionate about helping students succeed. I am looking forward to sharing my love of languages, reading, and the arts with the students at The Maurice Sendak Community School!
As a child of immigrant parents from Honduras and Argentina, I spoke Spanish at home and formally studied it in college. I attended NYU and earned a B.A in French and History, where I also studied Italian. I went on to learn Portuguese while working in private banking, traveling extensively in Latin America.
Raised in Brooklyn myself, I chose to raise my own family in this multi-cultural community. When my now teenage children were born, I elected to become a stay at home mom. I became interested in helping special needs children through various experiences with friends and family over the years.
I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, scrap-booking, and I am passionate about helping students succeed. I am looking forward to sharing my love of languages, reading, and the arts with the students at The Maurice Sendak Community School!
AMbEr Carlin- Mishkin
Science Teacher
Welcome back Ms. Amber Carlin-Mishkin !We're thrilled to welcome back Ms. Amber Carlin-Mishkin to PS 118! Formerly a first and fourth-grade teacher here and a fourth-grade teacher at PS 107, Ms. Amber is stepping into her new role as our Science and Hydroponics educator. With a Master of Science in Education from Brooklyn College and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Fordham College, she's distinguished for introducing hydroponics into the general education classroom during her initial tenure at PS 118. Dedicated to embedding diversity and equity in her teachings, Ms. Amber's approach aligns seamlessly with our school's values. Outside of teaching, her love for hiking and gardening reflects her deep appreciation for nature and sustainability.
John McEneny
Drama Teacher
John P. McEneny, who possesses MAs from NYU's Steinhardt School and Edinburgh Napier University, is excited to become part of the community at 118. As a devoted playwright and educator, he's been instrumental in shaping NYC's theatrical scene, particularly for the youth. Drawing inspiration from Brooklyn's rich diversity and fortified by his international studies, McEneny has spent 25 years at William Alexander Middle School. There, he pioneered an award-winning program that emphasized immersive storytelling, reaching as far as Scotland and Australia.
In 2000, McEneny's vision led him to establish Piper Theatre Productions in Brooklyn, which soon became a hub for aspiring artists and theater enthusiasts. Under his guidance, the theater showcased over 40 remarkable plays, some of which found acclaim on international stages. Beyond his organizational contributions, McEneny's own plays, like "Mayla the Monkey Girl" and "The Lincoln Dress," echo his knack for blending the fantastical with the deeply personal. His legacy in the theatrical world of New York is undeniable, and he eagerly anticipates inspiring students as Maurice Sendak's newest Drama teacher.
In 2000, McEneny's vision led him to establish Piper Theatre Productions in Brooklyn, which soon became a hub for aspiring artists and theater enthusiasts. Under his guidance, the theater showcased over 40 remarkable plays, some of which found acclaim on international stages. Beyond his organizational contributions, McEneny's own plays, like "Mayla the Monkey Girl" and "The Lincoln Dress," echo his knack for blending the fantastical with the deeply personal. His legacy in the theatrical world of New York is undeniable, and he eagerly anticipates inspiring students as Maurice Sendak's newest Drama teacher.
Ronald Mosodeen
Physical Education Teacher
We're thrilled to welcome Ronald Mosodeen to the P.S. 118 family as our new Physical Education teacher. A native of the bustling city of New York, Ronald proudly holds a B.S. in Physical Education from Brooklyn College. His fervor for fitness shines brightly, and he's enthusiastic about channeling this passion to our school.
Ronald champions the significance of physical education, aiming to impart lifelong skills that enable students to excel in any physical endeavor they undertake. A firm believer in tailored learning experiences, he's convinced that each student possesses the capability to progress in their physical well-being at their own unique pace.
Outside the classroom, Ronald is an embodiment of the active lifestyle he advocates. From weightlifting to cycling, walking, or unwinding with his favorite tunes, he maintains a holistic approach to health and fitness.
Ronald champions the significance of physical education, aiming to impart lifelong skills that enable students to excel in any physical endeavor they undertake. A firm believer in tailored learning experiences, he's convinced that each student possesses the capability to progress in their physical well-being at their own unique pace.
Outside the classroom, Ronald is an embodiment of the active lifestyle he advocates. From weightlifting to cycling, walking, or unwinding with his favorite tunes, he maintains a holistic approach to health and fitness.
Victoria Morey
Speech-Language Pathologist
Your voice and your words are a vital way to connect with others. In school, students use language to access the curriculum, to express specific interests, and to demonstrate comprehension of curricular material. Students with speech and language disorders may struggle with some or all of these tasks. My role at The Maurice Sendak Community School is to help students with diagnosed Speech-Language Disorders access the curriculum using structured support. Whenever possible we build on a student’s strengths and personal interests when approaching work that is particularly challenging. I work closely with classroom teachers to ensure the work we do in session is relevant to students’ academic needs outside of our sessions. And as our students grow, I encourage them to be aware of their own needs and advocate for themselves when appropriate.
After earning a B.A. in Psychology from Barnard College, I earned my M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology from Long Island University. I completed my Clinical Fellowship at a school for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. I then provided services to a diverse group of children in Brooklyn and Manhattan, but was missing the collegiality of working in a school. After two years at PS 321 I was excited to join the bright and dedicated staff here at PS 118. Working in a relatively small school with such a talented group of teachers has been wonderful. I really value the opportunity to talk over ideas and different approaches to learning with my colleagues.
In my free time I enjoy reading, usually nonfiction, and preferably on a mountain or in the woods.
After earning a B.A. in Psychology from Barnard College, I earned my M.S. in Speech-Language Pathology from Long Island University. I completed my Clinical Fellowship at a school for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. I then provided services to a diverse group of children in Brooklyn and Manhattan, but was missing the collegiality of working in a school. After two years at PS 321 I was excited to join the bright and dedicated staff here at PS 118. Working in a relatively small school with such a talented group of teachers has been wonderful. I really value the opportunity to talk over ideas and different approaches to learning with my colleagues.
In my free time I enjoy reading, usually nonfiction, and preferably on a mountain or in the woods.
Miwa Yoshikami
Guidance Counselor
Miwa is excited to be a part of the staff at P.S. 118. She has been committed to education and helping students succeed throughout her career. Miwa was a Resource Coordinator at P.S. 1 M, where she coordinated and ran programming for students and their families. Previously, she also oversaw a mentoring program at Apex for Youth, taught English to middle school students in Japan, and also worked at other not-for-profit educational organizations in New York, including Marymount Manhattan College and the International Center in New York. Miwa received her BA from Wesleyan University and her M.S.Ed. for School Counseling from Hunter College, City University of New York. In addition to her passion for helping young people gain confidence and realize their goals, Miwa enjoys her artistic passions for dance and has studied the Cecchetti method of ballet and traditional Japanese dance. Miwa is a native New Yorker and grew up in Brooklyn. Her most recent passion is being a mother to her son.
Joanne Rodriguez
Physical Therapist
A warm welcome back to our newish PT, Joanne Rodriguez, who joined the PS118 team at the close of the spring semester in 2023. Hailing originally from Brooklyn and raised in Staten Island, Joanne melds her passion for education with extensive training, including a Master's in Occupational Therapy from Columbia University. A graduate of Macaulay Honors College at Hunter College and a true advocate for students, Joanne brings a rich tapestry of personal and professional experiences to our community, ranging from baking and gardening to traveling the world.
Mariateresa Bazzi
Parent Coordinator
I am super excited to begin another year at PS 118. I love Principal Garraway's contagious enthusiasm and I am thrilled to be working for her and with her, alongside the amazing team she has put together.
I worked at PS 321 as a recess coordinator for five years. In that role, I had a variety of functions: I supervised students during outdoor play or indoor activities by organizing games, resolving conflicts and helping students make social connections on the playground. My main goal was to make recess relaxing, fun, and safe.
I also acted as a liaison between the backyard staff and school administrators and counselors. I organized parent volunteers coordinating their presence and their roles at recess. In addition, I maintained, managed, and purchased school wide recess supplies and play materials. I also had the pleasure of coordinating the fourth and fifth grade Peer Mediator Program. It was extremely rewarding to see how, with guidance and experience, students learned how to resolve conflicts and facilitate social interactions.
In my free time, I like reading, walking, hiking, watching movies and being a mother of four (two sets of twins). I am fascinated by different cultures, traditions and cuisine. I was born and raised in Italy but I could not live in a better place than New York; I am in love with its energy, its diversity, and its people.
I worked at PS 321 as a recess coordinator for five years. In that role, I had a variety of functions: I supervised students during outdoor play or indoor activities by organizing games, resolving conflicts and helping students make social connections on the playground. My main goal was to make recess relaxing, fun, and safe.
I also acted as a liaison between the backyard staff and school administrators and counselors. I organized parent volunteers coordinating their presence and their roles at recess. In addition, I maintained, managed, and purchased school wide recess supplies and play materials. I also had the pleasure of coordinating the fourth and fifth grade Peer Mediator Program. It was extremely rewarding to see how, with guidance and experience, students learned how to resolve conflicts and facilitate social interactions.
In my free time, I like reading, walking, hiking, watching movies and being a mother of four (two sets of twins). I am fascinated by different cultures, traditions and cuisine. I was born and raised in Italy but I could not live in a better place than New York; I am in love with its energy, its diversity, and its people.
Maria fonseca
Secretary
As PS118's secretary, Maria is thrilled to be a part of this dynamic team. You will find her in the halls with her bubbly personality, and she's always ready to assist anyone in need. Having grown up in Brooklyn, she now lives in the Park Slope community herself, so don't be afraid to say hello if you see her walking around the neighborhood or playing at JJ Burn Park with her son!
Donald Cofield
School Social Worker
Donald is a highly experienced professional specializing in human services in the following: trauma informed care, counseling, crisis intervention, training various treatment modalities, data recording, administrative duties and monitoring budgets allocated through various Community Based Organizations. Strategically partnering with all governing personnel to meet the needs of various populations to create meaningful and concise correspondence to internal and external partners. His personal hobbies are poetry, cooking, motivational writer and chess.
Lori Piagneri- School Psychologist
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Lori Piagneri is happy to continue being a part of the PS 118 community. This is her third year at PS 118 as a school psychologist. Lori was born and raised in Queens, where she continues to live. She earned her bachelor's in psychology from St. John's University. Shortly after, she earned her master's in education and advanced certificate in school psychology from Brooklyn College. Lori loves being a part of the School Based Support Team (SBST) to help develop plans for intervention and evaluate students for special education services based on their needs.
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Rachel Seidman
School Social WOrker
Rachel Seidman is a Licensed Master Social Worker (LMSW) who is part of the School Based Support Team (SBST). As part of the SBST, Rachel evaluates students for special education services and provides emotional support to students as needed. Since Rachel also works in two other schools, she is only at PS 118 on Fridays. Rachel received her BA in History from Tulane University and her MSW from Hunter College.
Rachel grew up in Manhattan but has been a Park Sloper for the past 3 years. Rachel's favorite Park Slope activities include going to NY Liberty games at Barclays, walking through Prospect Park, and trying out all the best restaurants (her favorites include Peppino's and Sushi Katsuei).
Rachel grew up in Manhattan but has been a Park Sloper for the past 3 years. Rachel's favorite Park Slope activities include going to NY Liberty games at Barclays, walking through Prospect Park, and trying out all the best restaurants (her favorites include Peppino's and Sushi Katsuei).
Nurse Nelly
Nurse Nelly, a new member of the PS 118 community, holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from St. Francis College. Nurse Nelly brings her passion for women's and children's health and health education to her work. With a background as a labor and delivery nurse and school nurse, Nurse Nelly combines her expertise with her caring nature to support the well-being of her students and community. Beyond her professional life, Nurse Nelly finds time for her interests in theater, yoga, painting, and brunch. Her enthusiasm for art, museums, history, and exploring new places and ideas drives her to embrace new experiences. Nurse Nelly lives by the mantra of never giving up until she achieves her goals and dreams, inspiring not only herself but also those around her to do the same.
