Congratulations, 2025 Retirees!
Number of Years in Education (For Teachers: Subjects and Grade levels taught):
25 years: Math (7-12), Computer Science (7-12)
Number of Years at Brentwood (and in what buildings if multiple):
19 years: High School and West Middle
What inspired you to become a teacher (or counselor, custodian, clerical staff member or administrator)?
I had always wanted to be a teacher but at the time I was in college, the computer field was booming, so I decided to get a Computer Science degree. I became a Computer Programmer. Years later, I looked into changing my career path & going into teaching. I found that I still had the desire to make a difference in students’ lives. I recall the wonderful teachers I had in school and didn’t want to regret missing out on that opportunity.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
I would have to say seeing that “aha moment” in the eyes of your students. It is so satisfying knowing a student finally “gets it”.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Brentwood?
I don’t have one favorite memory of my time in Brentwood. It’s the overall feeling of working in such a caring district. All faculty and staff go out of their way to make everyone feel important. I am so glad I can say I am part of the Brentwood family.
What is one piece of advice you would give to new teachers (or other members in the field of education)?
You must be flexible and adaptable. Lessons don’t always go as planned. Try to be able to pivot and make modifications to your lessons. Make note of what works and doesn’t.
What’s next for you in retirement? Any exciting plans, hobbies, or adventures ahead?
I definitely want to take more time for myself and my family. My wedding anniversary is in early September. We have not been able to go away on our anniversary in many years. We are looking forward to doing that. I love going into the city and especially seeing Broadway shows. I am looking forward to seeing shows when it is less crowded and less expensive. My husband and I enjoy visiting little known historical sites, especially cemeteries with important historical figures. As big baseball fans, we intend to go to as many away ballparks as possible. And finally, if time permits, I would like to volunteer my time with an animal shelter and Ronald McDonald House.
Is there a message you’d like to share with your colleagues and students?
I would like to say, thank you for allowing me to follow my dreams in Brentwood. This is such a welcoming and loving district. Thank you to all of you who have become my friend over the years – from sharing our love of the Mets, to our love of reading, movies and television, and food. You are an important part of my life here in Brentwood and I will never forget you.
Number of Years in Education (For Teachers: Subjects and Grade levels taught):
31 years as a guidance counselor. Was on the elementary, middle school and high school levels.
Number of Years at Brentwood (and in what buildings if multiple):
30 years. I started out split between Oak Park and Northeast and then moved on to middle school. I was at South, East and West over the next eight years before moving on and finishing up at the high school.
What inspired you to become a teacher (or counselor, custodian, clerical staff member or administrator)?
Since I was young, I knew I wanted to either be a teacher or a therapist. I brought both interests together to become a school counselor. I have always been driven to make a difference in a child’s life.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
Maintaining relationships with students long after they graduate, seeing their growth and successes.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Brentwood?
I can’t think of one favorite. The many wonderful friendships I have shared over the past thirty years have created so many memorable moments for me.
What is one piece of advice you would give to new teachers (or other members in the field of education)?
Take care of you. The demands and stresses of trying to motivate and encourage students on a daily basis, sometimes without success can take its toll. Its so important to be aware of your own triggers and find ways to give to yourself and also receive support from your colleagues.
What’s next for you in retirement? Any exciting plans, hobbies, or adventures ahead?
My fourth grandchild is on his way. I’m looking forward to spending time with family, getting in as much traveling as possible, and cleaning my garage!
Is there a message you’d like to share with your colleagues and students?
Thank you!! It has gone so quickly and has been so rewarding! You have added so much to my life!
Number of Years in Education (For Teachers: Subjects and Grade levels taught):
20 years.
Number of Years at Brentwood (and in what buildings if multiple):
All 20 in Ross.
What inspired you to become a teacher (or counselor, custodian, clerical staff member or administrator)?
I had a strong support system of educators as many of my siblings are educators. I have always had a strong desire to guide, nurture and support children. As teachers, we have the unique opportunity to shape young minds, inspire curiosity, and make a lasting positive impact on their lives.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
The relationships I formed with students and the sense of accomplishment from seeing them grow academically and personally, is the most rewarding for me.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Brentwood?
My favorite memory is probably when all the wrestlers came in to my room to take a group shot of me and them, wearing the shirts that I made for them. I love when the students come into my class instead of going to their lunch, just to hang out with me.
What is one piece of advice you would give to new teachers (or other members in the field of education)?
Teaching is a journey of constant growth, both for you and your students. In the beginning, you might feel overwhelmed or unsure. Remember, that no one starts as an expert and teaching is something that you constantly need to improve over time.
What’s next for you in retirement? Any exciting plans, hobbies, or adventures ahead?
In September, we are going on a cruise to Italy and I am so excited. I also plan to be visiting my grandchildren a lot more since they are all out of state. I can’t wait to go state to state, traveling around in our RV I also plan on working part time in my dental office as a Dental Hygienist.
Is there a message you’d like to share with your colleagues and students?
Most of our kids have had some difficult times and we need to consider that. I feel like I am more of a mother figure for them, and it is important for me to make them feel valued. The biggest thing for me is as a teacher is, if you want respect then you have to give it.
Number of Years in Education (For Teachers: Subjects and Grade levels taught):
30 years.
Number of Years at Brentwood (and in what buildings if multiple):
Started my teaching career at Hemlock Park and Laurel Park. My second year in I was moved to the high school (Sonderling).
What inspired you to become a teacher (or counselor, custodian, clerical staff member or administrator)?
From an early age, I’ve always had a deep passion for fitness and athletics, enjoying both the physical challenges and the personal growth they bring. As I developed in my athletic journey, I realized the transformative power of movement, discipline, and a healthy lifestyle—not just for physical strength, but for mental resilience and emotional well-being. This realization ignited a desire in me to share these benefits with others, especially children and adults, to help them discover their own potential.
Teaching wellness became my calling because I truly believe that physical health is the foundation of a thriving life. I’ve seen how sports and fitness can inspire confidence, perseverance, and teamwork, skills that transcend beyond the gym or playing field. Being able to guide others in developing a healthy mindset and body is a gift I wanted to share. Whether it’s helping children develop lifelong habits that promote wellness or encouraging adults to find joy in fitness, I saw teaching as the perfect way to blend my passions and make a lasting impact.
The ability to motivate, educate, and inspire others in a classroom or wellness setting is incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about the physical activity but also about teaching the values of dedication, patience, and self-care. These lessons can shape lives in meaningful ways, and I’m honored to be part of that journey. My love for fitness and my passion for wellness are what fuel my desire to become a teacher, and each day I step into the role, I’m reminded of how blessed I am to help others lead healthier, more balanced lives.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
Throughout my career as a Physical Education Teacher, Lifeguard Instructor, and Water Safety Instructor Trainer, one of the most rewarding achievements has been the development of the lifeguarding program at Brentwood. It took me ten years to get this course into the school’s curriculum, but the journey has been nothing short of transformative. My goal was always to share my passion for the water and lifeguarding, and I’m proud to say that we have created a program that not only teaches students how to become professional rescuers but also equips them with the life-saving skills of performing CPR and life-threatening first aid.
The program has evolved into a life-changing experience—not just for the students who have participated, but also for me as an educator. Being able to teach young people how to perform water rescues and respond to emergencies has been incredibly fulfilling. For many of our students, this program has opened doors to new opportunities, while also empowering them with the confidence and skills to handle critical situations.
Equally rewarding has been the opportunity to teach swimming to a community with a historically low level of swimming ability. Watching students, both children and adults, overcome their fears and develop new skills in the water has been deeply gratifying. In addition, training Brentwood students to teach swimming lessons themselves has been an extraordinary experience. It’s amazing to see them step into the role of instructors, passing on these life-saving skills to others while also reinforcing the values of responsibility and community service.
The impact this program has had on my students and the broader community is something I will always cherish. It is a privilege to be part of their growth and to contribute to the safety and well-being of those around me. Each success, no matter how small, is a reminder of the importance of what we do and the lasting change we’re creating together.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Brentwood?
My journey in Brentwood began in 1993 as the Athletic Trainer, and over the years, it has been filled with so many rewarding moments that have shaped my career and my life. One of my most cherished memories is caring for the Brentwood athletes and watching them compete. There’s something special about being part of their journey, whether it’s helping them recover from an injury or cheering them on during a big game. The pride I felt for these athletes, as they pushed themselves to perform at their best, has left a lasting impact on me.
Equally memorable has been the privilege of working alongside the most amazing colleagues. The collaborative and supportive environment in Brentwood has been a blessing. Whether it was working with fellow coaches, teachers, or staff, the camaraderie and shared passion for helping students succeed has made every day at work truly fulfilling. I’ve learned so much from my colleagues, and the friendships I’ve built along the way are something I hold dear.
Another highlight of my time in Brentwood has been collaborating with teachers outside my discipline. The opportunity to work together with educators from different fields has been both inspiring and eye-opening. We’ve shared ideas, supported one another, and created experiences that have had a positive impact on the students. These collaborations have not only broadened my own teaching approach but also made me feel even more connected to the Brentwood community.
Looking back, my time in Brentwood has been filled with wonderful memories, from the thrill of watching athletes succeed to the joy of working with such dedicated and inspiring colleagues. It has truly been a place where both my professional and personal growth have flourished, and I am forever grateful for the experiences and relationships I’ve gained here.
What is one piece of advice you would give to new teachers (or other members in the field of education)?
One piece of advice I would give new teachers at Brentwood High School is to embrace and celebrate the diversity of the student body. Brentwood is a large school with a rich mix of cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives, and understanding that diversity is key to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students. Take the time to learn about your students’ unique experiences, values, and needs. Show genuine interest in their lives both inside and outside the classroom.
When students feel seen, heard, and respected, they are more likely to thrive academically and personally. Building strong relationships with your students, and finding ways to connect with them through shared experiences or interests, can make a world of difference in their engagement and success. At the same time, don’t be afraid to seek out collaboration with your colleagues, who bring different perspectives and strategies to the table, helping you grow and adapt as a teacher. By being open-minded and adaptable, you’ll make the most of your experience at Brentwood and have a positive impact on the lives of your students.
What’s next for you in retirement? Any exciting plans, hobbies, or adventures ahead?
As I look ahead to retirement, I am excited to continue my work as an adjunct professor at Adelphi, where I teach and mentor future physical educators. It’s incredibly fulfilling to be part of shaping the next generation of educators, passing on the knowledge and passion I’ve gained throughout my career. Working with aspiring physical educators allows me to stay connected to the field I love while helping students develop the skills they need to inspire and teach others. In addition, I’ll continue running the highly successful Learn to Swim program at Brentwood, a program that has been a true highlight of my career. Seeing the positive impact it has had on the community and watching students develop confidence and skills in the water has been incredibly rewarding. I’m looking forward to expanding this program even further, continuing to provide vital swimming education to students and adults, and empowering them with life-saving skills that will benefit them for years to come. Retirement, for me, isn’t about stepping away—it’s about transitioning into new opportunities to keep making a difference in the lives of others. I feel fortunate to still be involved in education and community programs that are so meaningful to me, and I look forward to the next chapter of continuing to inspire, teach, and share my passion for fitness, wellness, and swimming.
Is there a message you’d like to share with your colleagues and students?
To my amazing colleagues and students,
As I reflect on my time here at Brentwood, I am filled with gratitude for all the moments we’ve shared, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the growth we’ve experienced together. Working alongside such dedicated and passionate individuals has been one of the greatest joys of my career. Each day, I’ve been inspired by your hard work, commitment, and the positive impact you’ve had on our community.
To my students, I want you to know that your growth, both inside and outside the classroom, has been a constant source of motivation for me. It has been an honor to witness your development, whether on the athletic field, in the classroom, or in the pool. You’ve taught me just as much as I hope I’ve taught you.
As I transition into this next chapter of my life, I am excited to continue my work in new ways and stay connected with all of you through my roles at Adelphi and in the Learn to Swim program. Though I may no longer be in the gymnasium and aquatics center every day, I will always carry the memories and experiences we’ve shared with me.
Thank you for the privilege of being part of this incredible journey. I’m proud of everything we’ve accomplished together, and I look forward to hearing about all your future successes.
Number of Years in Education (For Teachers: Subjects and Grade levels taught):
20 years as a science teacher. I have taught biology, chemistry, unified science, anatomy/physiology and forensics.
Number of Years at Brentwood (and in what buildings if multiple):
20 years at the high school, both in Ross and Sonderling.
What inspired you to become a teacher (or counselor, custodian, clerical staff member or administrator)?
I always liked kids and science. Before being a teacher I worked as a summer camp counselor with kids. As a kid I grew up reading comic books that were science based. I did have a great biology teacher (Mr. Nanos) in 10th grade and I really enjoyed that class.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
Working with lots of great students and fellow teachers. Brentwood really is an extended family.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Brentwood?
Lots of memories-I could write a book! I remember one time toward the end of the period, two boys decided to play catch with one of the “parenting” baby dolls by tossing it to each other. One boy hung out the window and tossed it to the other boy hanging out of the window on the other side of the room. The “catcher” missed and the baby fell to the ground from the 2nd floor. I was so upset and called for the dean because the kid “threw a baby out of the window.”
What is one piece of advice you would give to new teachers (or other members in the field of education)?
Lean on your fellow teachers, they are your greatest resource.
What’s next for you in retirement? Any exciting plans, hobbies, or adventures ahead?
Plan to spend more time volunteering at the church, wood working and some travel.
Is there a message you’d like to share with your colleagues and students?
Thank you all for the laughs, friendships, and support. I will carry you all in my heart always.
Number of Years in Education (For Teachers: Subjects and Grade levels taught):
28 years.
Number of Years at Brentwood (and in what buildings if multiple):
All of them at Brentwood Ross Guidance.
What inspired you to become a teacher (or counselor, custodian, clerical staff member or administrator)?
A friend suggested I take the civil service clerical test and work at the school. I am so glad she did, it proved to be a very rewarding career.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
The chance to see the excitement when students are accepted in to college, make the honor roll, or turned their life around has definitely been the highlight for me.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Brentwood?
Too many and I will truly miss the Brentwood Family…especially my Ross Guidance Crew.
What is one piece of advice you would give to new teachers (or other members in the field of education)?
Each child is different and you never know what some may be going through. Be kind always.
What’s next for you in retirement? Any exciting plans, hobbies, or adventures ahead?
No more 5 a.m. alarm and to enjoy more time with family and at our place on the lake in N.C.
Is there a message you’d like to share with your colleagues and students?
Brentwood will always have a special place in my heart.
Number of Years in Education (For Teachers: Subjects and Grade levels taught):
31 years. Regents Biology – Grade 10, Chem Lab – Grade 11, General Biology – Grade 10, Living Environment – Grade 10, Unified Science – Grade 11 – 12, Human Anatomy and Physiology/Bio 197 – Grade 11 – 12
Number of Years at Brentwood (and in what buildings if multiple):
30 years in Sonderling.
What inspired you to become a teacher (or counselor, custodian, clerical staff member or administrator)?
I always had a natural talent for teaching. I did patient and community education in my first profession so becoming a high school teacher and professor was a natural transition for me.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
Every time I see understanding flash in one of my student’s faces, I feel great satisfaction. I am also super proud when I hear success stories from my past students.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Brentwood?
It is impossible to pick one favorite memory from my time at Brentwood. I have many great memories with both my students and my science colleagues.
What is one piece of advice you would give to new teachers (or other members in the field of education)?
Talk to your coworkers. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice. Take what they give you and modify it a little to make it your own so you will be more comfortable using it. Also, be a team player.
What’s next for you in retirement? Any exciting plans, hobbies, or adventures ahead?
Future adventures include traveling with my husband to explore our country as well as a few others. I would also like to nurture my creative side and spend more time crafting/painting. Getting more physically fit is also on the agenda.
Is there a message you’d like to share with your colleagues and students?
Work smarter, not harder. If you are organized and efficient with your time you will have more success in school/work and also have more time for the fun things in life.
Number of Years in Education (For Teachers: Subjects and Grade levels taught):
21 years.
Number of Years at Brentwood (and in what buildings if multiple):
All 21 years at Brentwood School District, served at the Freshman Campus and High School.
What inspired you to become a teacher (or counselor, custodian, clerical staff member or administrator)?
I was assigned to the Air Mobility Warfare Center in the Military, and I developed The Air Mobility Warfare Center Deployed Commanders and First Sergeants Field Training Course for Air Mobility Command. I was awarded a Meritorious Service Medal and discovered I had a passion for teaching and curriculum development. I retired from the Military enrolled in college and transferred these skills to public education.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
Inspiring students to reach their full potential.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Brentwood?
One of my favorite memories is marching in Brentwood during the St. Patrick’s Day Parade. I was leading AFJROTC, and we had 500 AFJROTC Cadets in unform marching past the reviewing stand. The largest enrollment of students in the history of Brentwood’s AFJROTC program and Public High School AFJROTC Programs encompassing grades 10 to 12 in the country. HOORAH!
What is one piece of advice you would give to new teachers (or other members in the field of education)?
My key to success was building relationships with my students and understanding that they arrive to our classrooms everyday carrying the baggage of economic, social, emotional and cultural issues. I learned to manage my frustrations and expectations to give all of our students, but most importantly our most challenging students the sense that we can empathize, and that every day is a new opportunity to constantly motivate, provide support and help them achieve their full potential.
What’s next for you in retirement? Any exciting plans, hobbies, or adventures ahead?
Enjoying a normal life of proper rest and quality time with my wife. Starting construction on our additional 2-car garage.
Is there a message you’d like to share with your colleagues and students?
This is my quote: “I am Somebody” (You have to believe in yourself to allow others to have faith in you). “I can Achieve” (Life is not measured by who can run the fastest to achieving their goal; but that you achieve your goal by setting high expectations). “I will be Successful” (Success is individual measured. Don’t allow yourself to look through the lens of someone else to fulfill your life, look through your own lens to see and achieve what you want for yourself).
Number of Years in Education (For Teachers: Subjects and Grade levels taught):
Many, many years!!! I have been a Speech-Language Pathologist since 1985. After graduating from SUNY Cortland, I finished my master’s degree at Syracuse University in 1987.
I started my career at a Dartmouth Medical Center in New Hampshire working with children and adults with every possible communication need. My specialty became recovery following stroke and traumatic brain injury.
At the hospital, I also treated premature infants in the NICU, patients needing alternative and augmentative communication devices as they lost their ability to speak from neurodegenerative diseases and worked in one room schoolhouses in rural VT. These experiences have proven to be invaluable, and I have used them in my 30 years in Brentwood.
Number of Years at Brentwood (and in what buildings if multiple):
30 years. I started at Pine Park, then went to Southwest and was split between Southwest and the High School for a couple years. I have been at the High School for most of my career.
What inspired you to become a teacher (or counselor, custodian, clerical staff member or administrator)?
I thought I was going to college for Political Science with plan to become a lawyer. After finishing my freshman year at LeMoyne College in Syracuse, N.Y., I realized I wanted to do something more in the field of education or science.
My mother set me up to job shadow a Physical Therapist, a Nurse and a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP). The SLP was getting her PhD at Syracuse at the time, and I was very interested in her research. She advised me to transfer to SUNY Cortland with plans for a master’s degree at Syracuse so that’s what I did.
My advice to students is to look at colleges and universities with large research grants in your field of interest, that’s where the money is to help bring down the cost of your education. There was a lot of research going on at Syracuse and my MS degree cost me nothing.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
The goal of an SLP in the schools is to support students in their efforts to overcome communication challenges, including listening, speaking, reading and writing. It is an amazing feeling to help a student overcome what is preventing them from communicating successfully. Sometimes they master new skills and other times they learn to use compensatory strategies, but typically it’s a combination of both. For me, their successes are my biggest rewards.
Advising the Medical Society/Future Nurses of America has also been a rewarding experience. Helping students run a “Relay for Life Event” sleeping overnight in the Sonderling Gym and having staff and students compete to wear the Eliminator costume was so much fun. Also focusing on mental health with our BHS Project Semicolon event was a highlight in my career. Watching students from the club go to college and on to rewarding careers in healthcare has always made me so proud of each and every one of them.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Brentwood?
My fondest memory of the Brentwood School and the community as a whole is the sense of connection. I started at Pine Park in 1992, and the level of support and comradery was unmatched by any workplace I had been in. I have enjoyed working with teachers, administrators, staff and families. Watching my students graduate is a favorite yearly event for me. Many have defied the odds and graduated despite significant obstacles; like having a severe hearing impairment, having a stroke or sustaining a traumatic brain injury.
After leaving Dartmouth and the hospital setting, I never thought I would use those specialty skills again. Looking back, I know I landed exactly where I was meant to be, Brentwood High School, with a skill set I was able to offer to my school community. I have no doubt that all the memories of my students, both past and present, will continue to make me proud and bring a smile to my face for years to come.
What is one piece of advice you would give to new teachers (or other members in the field of education)?
The high school is enormous and sometimes it’s a challenge to connect with people not in your department. My advice is to get to know as many people as possible. My position required this. If I wanted to support student success, I had to reach out to everyone working with them. I have gotten to know so many people and it has been amazing.
What’s next for you in retirement? Any exciting plans, hobbies, or adventures ahead?
My husband works remotely so we can go anywhere! We plan to take our boat down the east coast and chase summer for a while. Spending time with our kids is in the works. Planning Christmas in Costa Rica and I’ve always wanted to ski out west.
Is there a message you’d like to share with your colleagues and students?
“The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away.” – Pablo Picasso. I will leave my career in Brentwood with a bit of a heavy heart. I will miss it terribly, but I do look forward to some new adventures and cheaper flights when it’s not a school vacation week.
Number of Years in Education (For Teachers: Subjects and Grade levels taught):
37. I have taught French (7=12), Spanish (7-12), Latin (7-12), Math (7-11), homeschool (k-6).
Number of Years at Brentwood (and in what buildings if multiple):
7 years at Sonderling, 1 year of which I was split with South Middle.
What inspired you to become a teacher (or counselor, custodian, clerical staff member or administrator)?
Friends, people counseling me about a career.
What has been the most rewarding part of your career?
Seeing students grow. Giving them the most valuable commodity in the universe: knowledge and wisdom.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Brentwood?
I have had several. Of the many that I can think of, the one that comes to mind is when the French club did the homecoming float. The officers worked so hard, and we placed in the competition. I was so proud of them.
What is one piece of advice you would give to new teachers (or other members in the field of education)?
Teaching is a wonderful and rewarding profession. There are dark days, but keep your eyes on the prize. You will see your students grow and become mature adults. That is tremendously rewarding.
What’s next for you in retirement? Any exciting plans, hobbies, or adventures ahead?
I look forward to helping my daughter and her husband settle in. I look forward to having grandchildren. I plan on gardening, quilting, and being a life long learner with my husband. I also plan on teaching Sunday School at my church.
Is there a message you’d like to share with your colleagues and students?
Of the many many schools I have taught in, I can honestly say that I have enjoyed Brentwood most of all. The students at Brentwood are by far the most mature, most teachable and pleasant students I have ever had. This is a great community.
