LOWER SCHOOL LOOKBOOK
26-27
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM A LOWER SCHOOL HEAD TEACHER FOR CLASS 620.
SAM ABBE SHE/HER/HERS LS HEAD TEACHER
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? STUDENTS WOULD BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT THAT I HAVE 2 PUGS, DOC AND MISO! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I WORKED AT HORIZONS FOR THE BEGINNING OF THE SUMMER AND WENT TO ALASKA FOR THE SECOND PART! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TO COOK! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO HAVING AN AMAZING SCHOOL YEAR WITH LASTING MEMORIES!
JONATHAN ADAMES HE/HIM/HIS LS ASSISTANT TEACHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM AN ASSISTANT TEACHER FOR CLASS 619. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I HAVE A GOLDEN RETRIEVER NAMED HANNAH AND THAT I LOVE TO PLAY VIDEO GAMES ON MY SPARE TIME. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I SPENT TIME WITH MY BABY NEPHEW DESMOND. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? RETAIL THERAPY AND INTERIOR DESIGN. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... SUPPORTING OUR NEW AND RETURNING STUDENTS!
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM A CUSTODIAN AND WORK WITH FACILITIES.
MARIA ARTETA-MARTELO SHE/HER/HERS LS HEAD TEACHER
ROBERTO ALMONTE HE/HIM/HIS CUSTODIAN
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM AN ASSISTANT TEACHER IN 618. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? STUDENTS ARE ALWAYS SURPRISED THAT I MAKE THE CHECK MARK BACKWARDS BECAUSE I AM LEFT-HANDED. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I TRAVELED TO COLOMBIA WITH MY FAMILY AND I ALSO STARTED A NEW SCARF. HOPEFULLY IT WILL BE READY FOR THE WINTER! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TO KNIT AND CROTCHET, AS WELL AS PAINT IN WATERCOLORS. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... GETTING TO KNOW MY STUDENTS AND HELP THEM SUCCEED!
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM THE DIRECTOR OF LOWER SCHOOL.
JOSEPH AUTEBERRY HE/HIM/HIS DIRECTOR OF LOWER SCHOOL
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I LOVE ROCK MUSIC WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? THIS SUMMER I TRAVELED TO THE BEACH A LOT. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? FINDING NEW RESTAURANTS. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... WELCOMING ALL OUR NEW AND RETURNING STUDENTS.
JOHN BANTA HE/HIM/HIS GRANDSTAND TEACHER AND LS HEAD TEACHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I TEACH GRANDSTAND FOR EVERYBODY AND LEAD THE YOUNGEST STUDENTS IN HOMEROOM. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? STUDENTS MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT THAT I WALK A TOTAL OF 40 BLOCKS TO AND FROM SCHOOL EVERY DAY. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? THIS SUMMER I TRAINED MY PUPPY, CHARLIE, TO OBEY A FEW COMMANDS. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? A HOBBY I LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL IS PLANTING RANDOM THINGS TO SEE WHAT GROWS. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... THIS YEAR I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO A HAPPY HALLOWEEN!
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? INSTRUCTIONAL COACH, LIBRARIAN, TEACHER
ELYSA BLUMENTHAL SHE/HER/HERS LEARNING SPECIALIST
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I ABSOLUTELY LOVE MARVEL MOVIES. I'M A SUPER FAN! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I TRAVLED TO CAPE COD AND MAINE DURING THE SUMMER WITH MY FAMILY. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL, MY FAVORITE ACTIVITY IS VISITING BOTANIC GARDENS. I LOVE TO WALK THROUGH FLOWERS, PLANTS, AND FORESTS! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... HELPING STUDENTS FIND BOOKS THEY LOVE TO READ!
ERICK BROWN HE/HIM/HIS CUSTODIAN
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM A CUSTODIAN AND WORK IN FACILITIES.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY?
VANESSA BROWN LS ASSISTANT TEACHER
I AM AN ASSISTANT TEACHER FOR CLASS 623 AND CURIOSITY GUIDE FOR OUR YOUNGEST. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I DON’T LIKE CHEESE. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? GOOD TROUBLE! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I COLLECT SPORES, MOLDS AND FUNGUS. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... HANGING OUT WITH THE MOST INTERESTING PEOPLE ON THE PLANET. KIDS.
KELLY BURTON SHE/HER/HERS OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I’LL PRIMARILY BE WORKING WITH OUR LOWER SCHOOL STUDENTS, HELPING THEM BUILD THE SKILLS THEY NEED TO FEEL CONFIDENT, COMFORTABLE, AND SUCCESSFUL THROUGHOUT THEIR SCHOOL DAY! THROUGH MOVEMENT, PLAY, AND HANDS-ON ACTIVITIES, WE’LL WORK ON THINGS LIKE SENSORY PROCESSING AND REGULATION, FINE MOTOR SKILLS, VISUAL PERCEPTION, VISUAL-MOTOR SKILLS, AND THE SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL SKILLS THAT SUPPORT LEARNING AND PARTICIPATION. I’M ALSO EXCITED TO SUPPORT OUR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS! I’LL SPEND TIME IN CLASSROOMS, COLLABORATE WITH TEACHERS, AND HELP FIND STRATEGIES, TOOLS, AND ACCOMMODATIONS THAT MAKE LEARNING AND EVERYDAY SCHOOL ROUTINES WORK BEST FOR EACH STUDENT. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I NEVER LEARNED HOW TO RIDE A BIKE! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? WHEN I WASN’T IN THE CITY, YOU COULD OFTEN FIND ME IN THE FINGER LAKES OR ON THE DANCE FLOOR AT MANY OF MY FRIENDS’ WEDDINGS. I JUST MADE THE MOVE FROM FIDI TO HOBOKEN. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TO EXPERIMENT WITH COOKING USING NEW FOODS, FLAVORS, AND TEXTURES. I FINISH EVERY DAY WITH READING BEFORE BED. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... I’M MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO EXPERIENCING THE MAGIC OF GATEWAY FIRSTHAND! I CAN’T WAIT TO GET TO KNOW OUR STUDENTS AND FAMILIES, BUILD MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS, AND BECOME PART OF SUCH A SPECIAL SCHOOL COMMUNITY.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I TEACH K-8 VISUAL ART AND I AM THE YEARBOOK EDITOR.
MICHEL CARLUCCIO SHE/HER/HERS ART TEACHER AND YEARBOOK ADVISOR
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I LOVE TO SING AND DANCE AT HOME. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? WENT TO THE BEACH A LOT INCLUDING GOING TO MARTHA’S VINEYARD FOR THE FIRST TIME! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? RIDING MY BIKE, VISITING MUSEUMS, SEEING MOVIES AND LOTS OF CONCERTS! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... HAVING A GREAT TIME FILLED WITH LOTS OF LAUGHS IN THE ART ROOM.
KIM CHANDRA SHE/HER/HERS SENIOR FINANCE AND BUSINESS ADMINISTRATOR
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? HANDLES TUITION FOR ALL STUDENTS, PA RECORD KEEPING, PAYROLL FOR ALL EMPLOYEES. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I SPEND HOURS IN MY KTICHEN COOKING. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? THIS SUMMER I CONNTECTED WITH FRIENDS FROM HIGH SCHOOL. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TO COLLECT STAMPS. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... TRAVELING
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM THE DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES AT GATEWAY.
JUDY COHEN SHE/HER/HERS DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? MY FATHER WAS AN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I ENJOYED LOTS OF BEACH TIME WITH MY FAMILY. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? YOGA! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... HAVING LUNCH WITH OUR LOWER SCHOOL STUDENTS
LISA CONCEPCIÓN SHE/HER/HERS EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO THE HEAD OF SCHOOL
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? ASSISTANT TO THE HEAD OF SCHOOL, DR. SHERRI HELVIE. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I ENJOY CROCHETING! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? HAD A GREAT VACATION WITH MY FAMILY! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? ENJOY DANCING ALL DIFFERENT TYPES OF MUSIC! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... AN AMAZING 2026-2027 SCHOOL YEAR WITH THE STUDENTS!
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM AN ASSISTANT TEACHER IN 615.
TRAVIS CORNETT HE/HIM/HIS LS ASSISTANT TEACHER
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I LOVE GOING TO BROADWAY SHOWS! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I TRAVELED TO IRELAND FOR A WEDDING AND I WORKED AT GATEWAY FOR THE SECOND YEAR OF HORIZONS! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? PLAYING TENNIS! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... THE SCHOOL MUSICAL!
PAM COTTO SHE/HER/HERS ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS AND PLACEMENT
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I HELP WITH ADMISSIONS FOR NEW STUDENTS AND PLACEMENT FOR STUDENTS WHEN THEY GRADUATE GATEWAY. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I PLAYED RUGBY IN COLLEGE, (A LITTLE)! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? READING AND SPENDING TIME WITH MY CHILDREN, FAMILY AND FRIENDS. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? WALKING, HIKING AND EATING IN NEW PLACES. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... GETTING TO KNOW ALL OF THE GATEWAY STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES!
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I TEACH MUSIC FOR THE WHOLE SCHOOL AND DIRECT THE ANNUAL GATEWAY MIDDLE SCHOOL MUSICAL.
MARISSA DAVIS SHE/HER/HERS MUSIC TEACHER
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? THEY'D PROBABLY BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT THAT I GO THE GYM MOST MORNINGS BEFORE SCHOOL! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? THIS SUMMER I ENJOYED A LOT OF REST AND RELAXATION. I READ BOOKS, SPENT TIME AT THE BEACH, SAW FAMILY AND FRIENDS, AND DID A LOT OF CREATIVE WRITING. I ALSO DISCOVERED THAT I LOVE ESCAPE ROOMS! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I REALLY ENJOY COOKING! EVEN THOUGH I DON'T HAVE A LOT OF TIME TO DO IT, I FIND IT PEACEFUL AND RELAXING. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... THE MUSICAL!
GEORGIA DRAKOPOULOU SHE/HER/HERS LANGUAGE THERAPIST
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM A LANGUAGE THERAPIST. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I SPENT MOST OF MY CHILDHOOD SUMMERS TRAVELING AROUND GREECE IN A VOLKSWAGEN CAMPER VAN! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I SPENT PART OF MY SUMMER VISITING MY FAMILY IN GREECE. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE COOKING, HIKING, AND DIVING INTO RESEARCH ON TOPICS THAT INTEREST ME. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO RECONNECTING WITH RETURNING STUDENTS, MEETING NEW ONES, AND FINDING MEANINGFUL AND ENGAGING WAYS TO SUPPORT THEIR LANGUAGE AND COMMUNICATION.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? LOWER SCHOOL MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR. TEACH SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THERAPY GROUPS IN THE LOWER SCHOOL.
ILEANA DRIGGS SHE/HER/HERS MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? IF I WASN'T A MENTAL HEALTH THERAPIST, I WOULD WANT TO WORK FOR ESPN AS A SPORTS ANALYST BECAUSE I LOVE BASKETBALL AND FOOTBALL.
WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I WENT TO SEE THE JONAS BROTHERS IN CONCERT AT MSG AND WORKED FOR OUR AMAZING HORIZON'S SUMMER PROGRAM! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TO WATCH SPORTS! I AM A BIG FAN OF OHIO STATE FOOTBALL, NY GIANTS, WNBA, AND THE LA LAKERS! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... HAVING FUN IN SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND HELPING OUR STUDENTS EXPLORE THE WONDERS OF OUR MAGICAL LOWER SCHOOL!
TANYA EHRLICH SHE/HER/HERS DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS AND PLACEMENT
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM THE DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS AND PLACEMENT. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I LOVE THE CHICAGO BEARS FOOTBALL TEAM. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I VISITED PORTUGAL FOR A WEEDING THIS SUMMER! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE YOGA AND PILATES. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... ACCEPTING MORE GATEWAY STUDENTS!
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? LOWER AND MIDDLE SCHOOL LANGUAGE THERAPIST.
CAROLINE ELIFF SHE/HER/HERS LANGUAGE THERAPIST
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I LOVE WATCHING COLLEGE FOOTBALL - GO LONGHORNS! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? THIS SUMMER, I TRAVELED HOME TO TEXAS, SPENT TIME ON THE JERSEY SHORE, CELEBRATED MY PARENTS' BIRTHDAYS IN MICHIGAN, AND WELCOMED A NEW NEPHEW! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE COOKING NEW RECIPES, PLAYING MAHJONG, AND TRYING NEW RESTAURANTS! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO PLAYING NEW GAMES, SHARING LOTS OF LAUGHS, AND MAKING MEANINGFUL MEMORIES WITH MY STUDENTS!
DIÓGENES ESCAÑO HE/HIM/HIS CUSTODIAN
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM A CUSTODIAN AND WORK IN FACILITIES.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM A CUSTODIAN AND WORK IN FACILITIES.
EVA FINKELSTEIN SHE/HER/HERS LS ASSISTANT TEACHER
ALFREDO FABIAN HE/HIM/HIS CUSTODIAN
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM AN ASSISTANT TEACHER IN 618 AND I TEACH READING/WRITING AND MATH! WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? MY STUDENTS WOULD BE SURPRISED THAT I HAVE A CAT NAMED KNICKS. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? OVER THE SUMMER I TRAVELED TO COLORADO AND CAPE COD WITH MY FAMILY. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE MAKING JEWLERY FOR MYSELF AND FRIENDS! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO SEEING FAMILIAR FACES AND MAKING EXCITING NEW MEMORIES!
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM A LANGUAGE THERAPIST.
JESSICA GOLD SHE/HER/HERS LANGUAGE THERAPIST
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I’M REALLY GOOD AT PING PONG! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I SPENT LOTS OF TIME WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? TRYING NEW RESTAURANTS AROUND NYC. I’M ALWAYS LOOKING FOR MY NEXT FAVORITE SPOT. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... LEARNING NEW THINGS ALONGSIDE MY STUDENTS!
ALLISON GOLDSTEIN SHE/HER/HERS LS HEAD TEACHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I TEACH THE BRIDGE PROGRAM FOR CLASS 615. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I LOVE TO BAKE IN MY FREE TIMEESPECIALLY CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? TRAVELED TO MAINE AND SPENT TIME AT THE BEACH WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? TRAVELING TO NEW PLACES. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... MEETING MY NEW STUDENTS AND BUILDING STRONG RELATIONSHIPS.
TIA HARRAWAY SHE/HER/HERS LS ASSISTANT TEACHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM A LOWER SCHOOL ASSISTANT TEACHER FOR CLASS 620. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I AM ALSO A STUDENT. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? STUDENT TEACHING. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? SHOPPING. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... BUILDING A WARM COMMUNITY, AND WATCHING MY STUDENTS GROW.
WILL HARRISON HE/HIM/HIS SENIOR PSYCHOLOGIST
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? ADMINISTRATION & SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT GROUPS. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? THAT I'VE WORKED IN HOSPITALS, RESIDENTIAL AND GROUP HOMES PRIOR TO COMING TO GATEWAY. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? TRAVELED TO SEVERAL CARIBBEAN ISLANDS. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TO COOK. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... OUR SCHOOL MUSICAL.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? YOU'LL USUALLY SEE ME AROUND SCHOOL WITH MY CAMERA! I TAKE PICTURES OF SCHOOL LIFE AND SHARE THEM WITH FAMILIES.
MAE HARKINS THEY/THEM/THEIRS ADVANCEMENT & COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? STUDENTS MIGHT BE SURPRISED TO KNOW I COME FROM A VERY BIG FAMILY. I HAVE 7 BROTHERS AND 1 SISTER AND I EVEN HAVE 40 FIRST COUSINS! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? THIS SUMMER I WENT TO LBI WITH MY COUSINS, PLAYED GAMES WITH FRIENDS, AND TRIED GARDENING. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE MAKING CERAMICS! I HAVE A STUDIO WHERE I MAKE ALL DIFFERENT TYPES OF POTTERY. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... HALLOWEEN! I LOVE SEEING EVERYONE'S CREATIVE COSTUMES AND PLAYING FUN GAMES ALL DAY.
ERIN HEARNE SHE/HER/HERS LS HEAD TEACHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I’M A HEAD TEACHER FOR CLASS 619 AND I TEACH SOCIAL STUDIES, MATH, AND SCIENCE. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I GREW UP IN SINGAPORE. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I WORKED AT A SUMMER CAMP IN NYC. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TO READ. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO MY FIRST YEAR TEACHING AT GATEWAY AND GETTING TO KNOW ALL OF THE STUDENTS
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY?
PRANEE HEDDON SHE/HER/HERS ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ASSOCIATE
I AM THE ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ASSOCIATE, WHICH MEANS I PAY THE SCHOOL’S BILLS. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I AM A SMALL LADY WHO WORKS IN BUSINESS OFFICE. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? THIS SUMMER I TRAVELED. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TO GO ON WALKS. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... DOING MORE EXERCISE.
BROOKE HEISNER SHE/HER/HERS LS HEAD TEACHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? HEAD TEACHER IN BRIDGE PROGRAM FOR CLASS 616. I AM TEACHING READING, WRITING, SOCIAL STUDIES AND MATH. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? GROWING UP, I LOVED TO DANCE! I ALSO HAVE AN OLDER SISTER BUT EVERYONE THINKS SHE IS MY TWIN!! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? THIS SUMMER I’VE SPENT A LOT OF TIME WITH MY TWO YEAR OLD NIECE, EMMA. LATELY, I’VE BEEN SPENDING MORE TIME IN THE KITCHEN! I LOVE TRYING NEW RECIPES, LEARNING NEW COOKING SKILLS, AND BECOMING A BETTER COOK WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TRYING NEW RESTAURANTS AND GOING TO BROADWAY SHOWS. I ALSO ENJOY PLAYING PICKLEBALL. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... GETTING TO KNOW MY STUDENTS AND LEARN AND GROW TOGETHER!
SHERRI HELVIE SHE/HER/HERS HEAD OF SCHOOL
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM THE HEAD OF SCHOOL. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I WAS BORN ON THE AZORES ISLANDS, AND I GREW UP IN ALASKA. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I STARTED WRITING A NOVEL. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? KAYAKING--AND I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO KAYAKING ON THE HUDSON RIVER! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... SEEING STUDENTS IN THE MORNING AS THEY ARRIVE AT SCHOOL!
HEATHER IRONSIDE SHE/HER/HERS DIRECTOR OF STUDENT AND FAMILY ADVOCACY
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I ADVOCATE FOR THE STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? STUDENTS WOULD BE SURPRISED TO KNOW THAT I'M AN AVID GOLFER! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I FINISHED 2 CROCHET PROJECTS! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? GOLF AND CROCHETING. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... WORKING WITH THE NEW TEACHERS AND SEEING THE NEW STUDENTS!
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I WORK WITH GATEWAY LEARNING SPECIALISTS, LANGUAGE THERAPISTS, TEACHERS AND STUDENTS IN BOTH DIVISIONS.
JOANNA KARASOULAS SHE/HER/HERS DIRECTOR OF LANGUAGE AND LITERACY
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? QUESTIONS LIKE THESE STUMP ME! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I VISITED FAMILY IN GREECE. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE PRACTICING YOGA. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... MEETING NEW STUDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES.
ANN KARIYEV SHE/HER/HERS LANGUAGE THERAPIST
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM A LANGUAGE THERAPIST. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I SPEAK RUSSIAN FLUENTLY! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I GOT MARRIED THIS SUMMER! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE COOKING THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO LEARN, GROW, AND MAKE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON OUR STUDENTS AND SCHOOL COMMUNITY. I’M EXCITED FOR ALL THE MOMENTS OF CONNECTION, COLLABORATION, AND GROWTH THAT THE YEAR WILL BRING.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I TEACH MATH AND SCIENCE AND I COACH ALL THE SCIENCE TEACHERS.
VICKIE KARKAZIS SHE/HER/HERS LEARNING SPECIALIST
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I PLAYED RUGBY IN COLLEGE. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I SPENT A LOT OF TIME IN NATURE LISTENING TO THE WAVES & CICADAS & WATCHED SUNSETS IN GREECE. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? LISTENING TO & PLAYING MUSIC THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... SEEING ALL THE STUDENTS AFTER SUMMER BREAK & SEEING HOW MUCH THEY HAVE GROWN & CHANGED!
ASHLEY KNAUER SHE/HER/HERS DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM THE STORYTELLER AND EDITOR FOR GATEWAY! THAT COULD LOOK LIKE SENDING OUT WEEKLY NEWSLETTERS WITH SCHOOL UPDATES, MANAGING OUR SCHOOL'S WEBSITE, CREATING VIDEOS ABOUT GATEWAY TO SHARE, BEING THE INHOUSE EDITOR, AND MUCH MORE! I ALSO HELP PEOPLE OUTSIDE OF OUR SCHOOL COMMUNITY KNOW AND LEARN MORE ABOUT GATEWAY. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I WAS ON A GAME SHOW, THE PRICE IS RIGHT, AND I GOT TO PLAY PLINKO! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I READ A LOT OF AMAZING BOOKS! LET ME KNOW IF YOU WANT A RECOMMENDATION! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I DO LOVE READING, BUT I ALSO LOVE TO DANCE! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... SOME OF MY FAVORITE GATEWAY TRADITIONS, LIKE FIELD DAY AND THE SPRING MUSICAL!
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? LOWER SCHOOL HEAD TEACHER FOR 622 AND CURRICULUM SPECIALIST.
SARAH KNOLL SHE/HER/HERS LS HEAD TEACHER AND CURRICULUM SPECIALIST
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I HAVE BEEN MAKING CERAMICS FOR 2 YEARS! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I WORKED AT HORIZONS AND TRAVELED TO NICE AND BARCELONA. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I DO PHOTOGRAPHY. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... GREETING MY PAST STUDENTS AND WELCOMING MY NEW CLASS!
TIFFANY KOAY SHE/HER/HERS LS ASSISTANT TEACHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM A LOWER SCHOOL ASSISTANT TEACHER FOR 622.
WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I SPENT MY SUMMER WITH MY FAMILY IN TAIPEI, TAIWAN. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I ENJOY DISCOVERING NEW RESTAURANTS AND BAKERIES. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... GETTING TO KNOW THE GATEWAY COMMUNITY!
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM AN ACCOUNTANT IN THE BUSINESS OFFICE.
RACHEL LI SHE/HER/HERS STAFF ACCOUNTANT
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I AM VERY QUIET. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? IT WAS NICE TO HAVE SOME TIME TO RELAX AND RECHARGE. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TO TRAVEL AND PLAY BADMINTON. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO USE VERACROSS PROFICIENTLY.
MELANIE LORENZO SHE/HER/HERS SCHOOL SECRETARY
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM THE SCHOOL SECRETARY AND AFTER SCHOOL COORDINATOR. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I HIKED 100 MILES IN 5 DAYS IN SCOTLAND.
WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I SPENT A LOT OF MY TIME AT THE BEACH. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? FILM PHOTOGRAPHY AND ROLLER SKATING.
THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... ALL THE FUN ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS WE HAVE PLANNED!
ALEXA MARINELLI SHE/HER/HERS LS PROGRAM COORDINATOR
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I WORK WITH ALL OF THE LOWER SCHOOL AND ALSO TEACH MATH AND RESEARCH. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I’VE BEEN TO 19 OUT OF 30 MLB STADIUMS!
WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? SPENT FAMILY TIME WITH MY SON WHO JUST LEARNED HOW TO WALK! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? READING. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... WORKING WITH ALL OF THE STUDENTS IN LOWER SCHOOL.
EMILY MISSBACH SHE/HER/HERS LS ASSISTANT TEACHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM AN ASSISTANT TEACHER IN CLASS 616. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I AM IN A BAND! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? CAUGHT UP ON MY READING! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? MAKING MUSIC WITH MY FRIENDS. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... CONNECTING WITH OUR STUDENTS AND HELPING THEM GROW.
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I WORK IN THE BUSINESS OFFICE.
MARINA MRAKOVCIC SHE/HER/HERS CONTROLLER
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I SPEAK CROATIAN. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? TRAVELED TO EUROPE-CROATIA WITH MY CHILDREN. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE TO GO TO PARKS AND THE BEACH. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... STUDENTS' PROJECT PRESENTATIONS, THE MUSICAL, AND FIELD DAY.
EMY OKUYAMA SHE/HER/HERS ASSISTANT TO DIVISION DIRECTORS
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM THE ASSISTANT TO DIVISION DIRECTORS. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? BEING A TOURIST IN MY OWN CITY AND WALKING AROUND NEIGHBORHOODS THAT I DON'T VISIT OFTEN. APPRECIATING WHERE I LIVE! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? EMBROIDERING AND SEWING THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... MEETING EVERYONE AND BEING PART OF THE GATEWAY COMMUNITY
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I TEACH PHYSICAL EDUCATION TO THE WHOLE SCHOOL AND COACH BOYS BASKETBALL, SOCCER, AND SOFTBALL.
GABE PEÑA HE/HIM/HIS PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I AM NOT A FAN OF ROLLERCOASTERS! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? READING AND RELAXING! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? WORKING OUT/EXERCISING. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... GETTING TO KNOW ALL OF OUR NEW GATEWAY STUDENTS!
JOEL PEREZ HE/HIM/HIS PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEACHER AND ATHLETICS COORDINATOR
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? TEACH PE TO UPPER LS & ALL MS STUDENTS. COACH GATEWAY LIONS IN SOCCER, BOYS BASKETBALL, & SOFTBALL.
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I HAVE FOUR CHILDREN AND ALL FOUR COMPETED IN NCAA DIVISION 1 ATHLETICS. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I VISITED THREE MLB STADIUMS THAT I HAVE NEVER VISITED BEFORE, CITI FIELD IN NY (METS), PNC PARK IN PITTSBURGH (PIRATES), & FENWAY PARK IN BOSTON (RED SOX). I HAVE NOW VISITED 16 MLB STADIUMS IN MY LIFETIME. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? ENJOY SPENDING TIME WITH MY FAMILY, TRAVELING, AND WATCHING SPORTS. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... GETTING TO KNOW ALL NEW STUDENTS TO GATEWAY AND COACHING THE GATEWAY LIONS!
VALERIE RAFAL SHE/HER/HERS DIRECTOR OF MATHEMATICS
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? DEVELOP MATH CURRICULUM AND PROVIDE INSTRUCTIONAL COACHING FOR MATH TEACHERS. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I AM AN ONLY CHILD. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? TRYING NEW RECIPES WITH MY DAUGHTER. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? READING FICTION BOOKS. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... WATCHING OUR STUDENTS GROW AS MATHEMATICIANS.
JOHN SACAZAS HE/HIM/HIS IT SUPPORT TECHNICIAN
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? PROVIDE TECHNOLOGICAL SUPPORT AND MAINTENANCE TO ALL STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND STAFF. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I USED TO ROLLER SKATE AROUND THE CITY. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I GOT INTO CARD COLLECTING AND VISITED A LOT OF CARD SHOWS. WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? KARAOKE. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... CONNECTING WITH NEW STUDENTS AND TEAM MEMBERS!
RYLIE SANO SHE/HER/HERS LS HEAD TEACHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I’M A HEAD TEACHER FOR CLASS 621 AND I TEACH READING, WRITING, MATH, AND SOCIAL STUDIES. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I HAVE A TWIN SISTER! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? OVER THE SUMMER, I HAD AN AMAZING TIME WORKING AT HORIZONS NYC AT THE GATEWAY SCHOOL AND TRAVELED TO LONDON! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? I LOVE SPENDING TIME WITH MY TWO CATS, BAKING, AND READING! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... GETTING TO KNOW OUR NEW STUDENTS AND BRINGING JOY INTO OUR EVERYDAY LEARNING AND GROWTH!
MELANIE SIROTA SHE/HER/HERS LS ASSISTANT TEACHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? LOWER SCHOOL ASSISTANT TEACHER FOR CLASS 621. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I'VE SPENT A LOT OF TIME IN MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN. GO BUCKS AND GO BREWERS!!! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I WENT TO NIAGARA FALLS ON THE US SIDE FOR THE FIRST TIME! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? READING AND YOGA. THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... MEETING ALL OF THE WONDERFUL STUDENTS AT GATEWAY AND HAVING FUN TOGETHER
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? LANGUAGE THERAPIST FOR LOWER SCHOOL.
GABBY STERN SHE/HER/HERS LANGUAGE THERAPIST
WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I RUN MARATHONS! WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? I TRAVELED TO IRELAND, SCOTLAND, AND NORWAY! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? READING! I HAVE READ 42 BOOKS (SO FAR!) IN 2026 THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... PLAYING NEW GAMES IN LANGUAGE THERAPY!
SAVANNA WEINSTEIN SCHOOL NURSE
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT GATEWAY? I AM THE SCHOOL NURSE. WHAT WOULD STUDENTS BE SURPRISED TO FIND OUT ABOUT YOU? I HAVE A CAT NAMED MISO. WHAT DID YOU GET INTO THIS SUMMER? THIS SUMMER I SPENT TIME RELAXING, TRYING NEW RESTAURANTS, SPENDING TIME WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS, AND ENJOYING SOME MUCH NEEDED SUNSHINE! WHAT’S A HOBBY OR ACTIVITY YOU LOVE OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL? RUNNING IN THE PARK! THIS YEAR I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO... I’M LOOKING FORWARD TO HELPING EVERYONE HAVE A HEALTHY, HAPPY, AND FUN SCHOOL YEAR.