2021 Cohort

Julius is originally from just outside of Chicago, and he is a first-generation college graduate of Columbia University (CC '18). He is a 2018 TFA Corps Member and earned a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) from Relay Graduate School of Education. Julius currently teaches AP US History at DREAM Charter High School in New York City. His professional goals include being a school principal (and perhaps even a school superintendent one day), and he is excited to return to Morningside Heights to get him closer to that goal. A fun fact about Julius is that he plays volleyball in an adult LGBTQ league (when there is not a pandemic).

Hi, I'm Brittany! I'm from Bayonne, New Jersey and teach secondary English in Newark, New Jersey. I am a Montclair State graduate and proud Teach For America Alumni. I am looking most forward to continuing to grow as an educator while developing my leadership skills! Fun fact – I teach Shakespeare and have the same birthday as him!

Hi! My name is Erika Sun. I was born and raised in Seattle, Washington, attended college in Chicago at Northwestern University, and became a Teaching Fellow in New York City, somehow, I kept moving east (against my will). Some of my favorite things to do are running (away from my problems) in Central Park, hiking, skiing, reading, spending time with friends & family, and petting my cat. I've spent the past year collecting house plants I've been incapable of keeping alive, so I suppose my fun fact is that I have a brown thumb. Give me a plant, and I'll kill it for ya.

I'm so excited to attend SPA this upcoming year! I've always wanted to be a teacher and educator, and I truly believe that entering into administration and school management is the best way for maximal, meaningful impact to right the inequities and injustices that are so pervasive within New York City's public education system. I've learned so much during my tenure within the DOE, and I'm excited to begin the next chapter of my education and career with the amazing students and faculty at TC.

I was born and raised in Del Rio, Texas. My undergraduate degree is in Engineering Mechanics with a concentration in biomechanics at Johns Hopkins. I received my M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction (Secondary Math Education) at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Currently, I teach Pre-Calculus, AP Calculus AB, and AP Calculus BC at Equipo Academy in Las Vegas! I'm also the high school math department chair and instructional coach.

Professionally, I'm very open to opportunities. As long as it involves helping kids and improving communities, I'm in! The roles and titles don't matter as much to me as the actual work. I believe relationships are the heart of all growth and success in education. I want to create a growing team of individuals who invest in people on a personal level and provide opportunities to support our community in unique ways.

I am excited at the opportunity to take a deeper dive into subjects at the SPA program which I have already incorporated into my own classes, such as restorative practices and social emotional learning. This would allow me to continue to serve in my community and sustain the environment I helped create. I believe that SPA is the right program for me because it is a program that will value my attentiveness to personal relationships and community needs.

Fun facts:
I like long walks to the kitchen
I love cooking
I've played guitar since 3rd grade
I played in a mariachi band professionally for 5 years
I didn't ever think about working in education until my senior year of college
I lived in St. Croix, US Virgin Islands for 2 years in high school
I have a mini bernedoodle named Bailey
I've bought one-way flight tickets to just see where life will take me without planning much else besides where my adventure will start

Kiera Russo is a school psychologist at Barlow Mountain Elementary School in Ridgefield, CT, where she has worked for the past three years. After graduating from Bucknell University with a double major in economics and psychology Kiera began work in sales in New York City. She quickly realized a desire to do meaningful work that gives back to others and decided to switch careers. Kiera received her Master of Arts and 6th Year Certificate of Advanced Study in School Psychology from Fairfield University in 2018. Kiera serves as a leader on her buildings social emotional learning team and is passionate about fostering positive school climates and building resilience of students. In her free time she enjoys running, reading, and traveling to new places.

Sean Hudson is committed to removing roadblocks that prevent black and brown students from reaching their educational potential. He believes educational equity is the civil rights issue of our time. Sean was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and is an avid Steelers fan. He currently is a Teacher Leader at B.B. Comegys School in Southwest, Philadelphia. After earning a BS and MA from Excelsior College and a M.Ed from Liberty University, he decided to challenge himself with one of the best education programs in the nation. Sean chose SPA NYC at Teachers College, Columbia University to position himself to be of greater service to his community as a school principal.

Natasha Ambria Henry is a Black, Asian, Caribbean-American musician and educator. Although a military child, she was born and raised in New York City. She currently teaches for the New York City Department of Education at her alma mater, Fort Hamilton High School. Natasha works with the Marching Regiment, assisting with drumline, and is the director of the Intermediate Band and Jazz Band. She also teaches "Music Interpretation", which is a curriculum she developed based on the studies of popular culture, musicology, and music philosophy, where non-auditioned students receive the opportunity to learn to compose, perform, analyze and appreciate music from around the world through different perspectives and inclusive discussions. She has received a Bachelor of Music in Instrumental Performance: Percussion Studies with a Minor in Piano and Voice from LIU Post, and she has both a Master of Arts and an Ed.M.in Music Education from Teachers College, Columbia University. Natasha has studied percussion for over 14 years, piano for 10 years, and voice for 9 years. She has toured as a performing musician to Ireland, Puerto Rico, Switzerland for the Montreux Jazz Festival, and Australia for the International Music Festival. She has also performed with the North Shore Symphony Orchestra, at Carnegie Hall with the Cecilia Chorus of New York, in the Lincoln Center Out of Doors Festival, and many other wind ensembles, choruses, vocal jazz ensembles, jazz bands, jazz combos, and percussion ensembles. Natasha aspires to change the future of education through cultivating a communicative and restorative environment, fostering community building, and continuing to engage in culturally responsive sustaining education (CRSE). Summers Principal Academy (New York) provides an innovative and rigorous space for Natasha to learn, grow, and excel in the TC community and pedagogical practices.

Adam Seidman is currently a third grade teacher at The School at Columbia University. A lifelong New Yorker, Adam particularly enjoys guiding his students through social studies units studying New York City's history. Prior to becoming a classroom teacher, Adam helped teachers affiliated with an environmental education nonprofit to develop interdisciplinary units of study for students of all ages. Adam holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Oberlin College and a Master of Science in Education degree from Bank Street College. He is excited to extend his career in education with leadership skills and strategies through the SPA program. When he is not in the classroom, Adam enjoys cooking, bicycling, and music.

Kelly Bullock is an author, educator and entrepreneur. Kelly lives in Cincinnati, Ohio and teaches 3rd grade English Language Arts. She earned her Bachelor's Degree from the University of Cincinnati in Business Administration emphasizing Marketing and Management. After nine plus years of working in the banking industry, she sought a career change, earning her Masters in Education and a K-12 Reading Endorsement from Mount Vernon Nazarene University. Having diverse children's literature is a true passion of Kelly's, which is why she wrote her first book to ensure that all children see themselves reflected in today's literature. When absent from teaching and writing, Kelly enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends. Mrs. Bullock is thrilled to join the SPA community and seek to become a transformational leader.

Anya will be entering her tenth year as a high school teacher in the New York City public school system. She is dual certified in English Language Arts and special education and throughout her career has worked as both a general education teacher and special services provider. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Africana and Puerto Rican/Latino studies and political science from Hunter College and a Master of Arts in Teaching in secondary English education, with additional concentration in special education and TESOL, from Northeastern University. In her tenure as a teacher, Anya has served as English department chair and currently facilitates her school's Transformative Justice Action Team.

Anya believes deeply in the power of literacy as a mechanism of liberation and empowerment and is committed to culturally-sustaining pedagogical practice and healing-centered engagement across school spaces. As an educator and emerging leader, she views community and democratic, participatory school governance as the foreground of transformative schooling.

Connecticut native and Special Education Teacher in Greenwich Public Schools. I received my Undergraduate and Master's Degrees from Southern Connecticut State University. I chose SPA because of the rigor and diversity of it's program.

Diamond Summerville-Nelson was born and raised in Yonkers, NY. She received her BS in Early Childhood and Childhood Education from Iona College, and her MS in Early Childhood Special Education from Bank Street College of Education. She has taught for the past 15 years, in both public and private school settings, in New York City and Los Angeles. She is an advocate of quality early education programs, developmentally appropriate practices, and community-based schools. She looks forward to expanding her knowledge and skillset necessary to address the needs of the whole child (and, the whole school, for that matter) from an administrative level.

Kelly Liu is a passionate Special Education Teacher currently working at a Title 1 Public School in Bushwick, Brooklyn. When she's not cycling to work, she becomes a board game fanatic, reading enthusiast, and dangerous sweet-toothed craver.

After graduating from Stony Brook University in Sociology and Women and Gender Studies, Kelly began her career in education through the NYC Teaching Collaborative Program. In 2020, she graduated from St. John's University with her Masters in the Science of Education; continuing to find ways to support students with disabilities through specially designed instruction.

Recognizing the historical and systemic racial and wealth inequities burdened by generations of communities of color, Kelly aims to reexamine the gaps in access and opportunity in the public school and special education system.

Kelly is deeply humbled, privileged, and excited to extend her education, through SPA, to learn best practices to cultivate a rich learning environment. Perhaps with some reimagining, education ultimately must provide all people with the relevant skill sets and social experiences needed to become responsible, active, and contributing members of our global society.

I am a proud Afro-Latino from the South Bronx currently teaching Algebra 1 and serving as the 9th grade team leader at The American Dream High School. I was the first in my family to attend and graduate college receiving my Bachelors of Arts in Education and a Masters of Science in Secondary Education at University at Albany (SUNY). My professional goals are to serve all members of my school community by being an effective and transformational leader who never ceases to reflect in my practice and grow as an educator. The reason why I chose SPA is because I was ultimately blown away by all the virtual sessions I attended during the Fall of 2020 and Spring of 2021. From the inspirational and profound alumni panel session to the very informative decision making demo course with Dr. Perkins to the engaging and fun improvisational virtual activity with Hannah to the honest student panel session as well. Here are some fun facts about me. I love poetry, comic books, graphic novels, science fiction and superhero movies (especially Marvel movies). I am a huge Star Wars and Batman fan as well. In fact, some of the students and teachers at my school call me Batman. I also write and perform spoken word poetry. Most importantly, my first love will always be my family. My wife and I are high school sweethearts. We have been together for twenty years and married for ten. We have two beautiful and creative children name Gregorio and Gabriella. They are the main reason why I chose to pursue a Masters in Educational Leadership. I treat all of my students as if they were my son and daughter which means I want the very best for each and everyone of them. Lastly, I love karaoke, hip hop and R & B music.

Maura Wachter has been a teacher in New York City for six years. After graduating from Boston College in 2013 with degrees in Elementary Education and Economics, Maura worked in commercial banking in the Philadelphia area for two years. While there she decided to pivot to follow her passion for teaching. Maura moved to New York in 2015 and taught in several public and charter schools. During this time, she completed a masters degree in General and Special Education at Touro College. Maura currently teaches third grade at PS 340 in Flatiron. In addition to her duties in the classroom Maura is a member of the School Leadership Team as well as the Equity Committee. She is honored to be a part of the SPA program and looks forward to learning to lead in a way that creates an equitable and supportive community for all students and staff.

Born in Barbados, grew up in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Current Position: Founding Chemistry/Geometry Teacher at Metropolitan Lighthouse College Preparatory Academy, Bronx NY (2018-present). Past Education: BEng Chemical Engineering (2008) University of Technology Jamaica; Postgraduate diploma in Education - Secondary Science (2014) University of the West Indies, Cave Hill, Barbados; MA Chemistry 7-12 (2021)Teachers College, Columbia University. Professional Goals: To be a coach and mentor to teachers; to lead a successful educational institution providing equitable educational opportunities to "students of color". SPA provides an opportunity to be in the workforce and pursue a professional masters degree concurrently. SPA also provides quality training and a network of excellent educators and leaders. Proposed to my wife with a sonnet I wrote for her which I later published in a book of sonnets.

Hello Everyone,
My name is Austin Hills. I am originally from Old Bethpage New York on Long Island however have lived in Rockland county New York since graduating college. I graduated from SUNY Oneonta with a double major in education and physics. I also have received my Masters in Educational Technology from SUNY Oneonta as well.

I am currently finishing my 5th year as a high school physics teacher in spring valley New York. I have spent my entire teaching career in the same job however am excited and looking forward to my future in the world of education. Although I am only 26 years old I am confident I will be a superintendent of a school district one day. I was lucky enough to be introduced to SPA by two wonderful colleagues of mine and believe this program is just the beginning of many amazing things to come.

A little bit about myself outside of the world of teaching. I have been golfing my entire life and absolutely love the sport. Thanks to my father I am a die hard Mets and Jets fan so I suffer through sports year round. In October 2019 I rescued my dog Teddy from a local shelter and it has been the best decision I have ever made! I'm really looking forward to the SPA program and can't wait to see all of the amazing life skills and lessons I learn!

Decia Onecia Archibald, now Benjamin is a proud West Indian. Born in Georgetown, Guyana but grew up in the lovely twin Island of Antigua & Barbuda. I have lived most years of my life in New York, so that makes me a New Yorker, but as they say you can take the girl out the island but you can't take the island out of the girl, I am an Island Girl. I am currently a 2nd general education teacher in an ICT classroom. I am also the current Grade Level Chair. I received my Masters of Arts in Teaching from Relay Graduate School of Education in 2016. 5 years prior to that I graduated from CUNY Brooklyn College with my Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Why SPA, I believe if you want to be the best then, you must be with the best. It is my desire to be the best school leader I can be, so I want to receive the training and education I need from one of the best programs. Fun fact – Every member of my immediate family first initial is D.

I am from Brooklyn, NY and I currently teach at John Dewey High School. I am an alum of Brandeis University and Relay Graduate School for Education. My professional goal is to actively dismantle the school to prison pipeline. I strongly feel like SPA's mission aligns with mine. SPA's mission reminds me that there are so many others that also seek to do the same.

Betty Salgado is originally from Ecuador but lives in the Hoosier State. She is a English as a New Language teacher at James and Rosemary Phalen Academies. She began her teaching career with the Indianapolis Teaching Fellows and received a MA in education from Marian University. She is passionate about education. She credits her education to be the driving force in acquiring her American dream. She enjoys supporting the fast growing English learners students and their families. She has high hopes to learn in SPA great leadership skills needed to better support her students in the pursuit of their American dream. Betty enjoys gardening, cooking and taking pictures.

My name is Joianne, pronounced Joy-Ann. I am originally from Boston, MA born and raised. I am a first generation of many things, which all I am proud of. I am first generation born-American, as my father is from Haiti. My Black American and Haitian American cultures collide in beautiful and complex ways. I am a proud HBCU alumna. I received my B.A. in Psychology from Spelman College in 2007. I came to New York to attend Teachers College, where I received my M.A. in Curriculum and Teaching in 2012. I currently work in East Harlem at Central Park East 2 Elementary School as a 2nd and 3rd grade loop teacher. A loop teacher means that I have my kids for two years; 2nd and 3rd grade. I absolutely love teaching but I am continuing to walk in my purpose. At my school, I currently hold several leadership hats and realized that I am a person that administration relies on to lead and equally teachers and staff trust to communicate needs. Therefore, I serve as the Literacy Data Specialist, 2nd and 3rd grade team leader, hiring committee member and School Leadership Team (SLT) elected teacher representative. After receiving my Ed.M. from SPA, I eventually want to pursue my doctorate in Education Leadership. I want to become a principal in public urban education. My ultimate goal is to become Superintendent of a city-wide school district, hopefully, Boston Public Schools. I never thought I'd have the idea to move back to Boston, but my maternal roots run very deep in the city of Boston. My family has lived in the neighborhood of Roxbury for 100 years as one of the first black families. So I truly believe in honoring my ancestors and part of that is changing the face of leadership in a city with a haunting racist past. I believe SPA will help me gain the expertise, knowledge and confidence to transition from teacher to school leader. A few of my Spelman sisters are graduates of SPA or currently matriculating in SPA cohort 2020. I have witnessed and admired their transformative ability and confidence to lead successfully and with equity. I believe SPA will do the same for me. A few fun facts about me: I have a fur baby, named Onyx. She is a 14 year old black lab and I've had her since she was 6 months. I love animals and would have more if my apartment was bigger. I equally love love music, especially hip hop and trap music! Yes, I went to school in Atlanta so it shows in my music choice. :-) My faith if very important to me. My mom passed away in 2017 from ovarian cancer, and honestly if it wasn't for my faith in God, I'm not sure how I would have gotten through the loss and grief. The beach is my happy place. So I often go to Cape Cod or Martha's Vineyard during the summer months. I love community service. I volunteer with the NY Urban League Young Professionals. Last but not least, I am a PROUD member of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority Incorporated, where I am very active in my chapter, Bronx Alumnae.

Natalie Naftel is originally from Nashville, Tennessee. She obtained her Bachelor's Degree majoring in Social Studies Education and History from Hofstra University graduating cum laude and appointed into the history honor society Phi Alpha Theta. She graduated with her Master of Arts in Social Studies Education from the City College of New York. She is presently head of the Social Studies Department at Williamsburg Charter High School as well as teaching Global 9 and SUPA Sociology which offers students college credit through Syracuse University. Natalie hopes to someday open a public school centered around student choice and empowerment through leadership either through Montessori or a similar model. SPA is an opportunity to foster leadership skills to grow professionally as well as to connect with other individuals who share the same goals of investing in the futures of the students they serve.

Rebecca Martinez was born and raised in Queens, New York. She is currently a choral music teacher in her sixth year at Fort Hamilton High School. There she directs a large mixed ensemble, a treble chorus consisting of auditioned students, and is the advisor of the a cappella club. Her ensembles have performed at the school's winter and spring concerts, as well as, adjudications and choral festivals at the University of Connecticut, Brooklyn, and Hunter College. Ms. Martinez has been on faculty at Brooklyn College since 2019 as director of their Glee Club. Rebecca Martinez has performed at Lincoln Center, the United Nations, and Carnegie Hall. She is a soprano singer who was classically trained. Martinez received an undergraduate and master's degree from Brooklyn College's Conservatory of Music with a major in Music Education, and is currently a graduate student in the Summer Principals Academy at Teachers College, Columbia University.

A bilingual artist and educator, Rebecca Martinez believes in the importance of singing through diverse repertoire, including languages and cultures. She brings her own background to her teaching to better assist her students on their musical journey. Rebecca also believes that it is important for students to make connections between the music they are singing and their personal experiences. As a leader, Martinez hopes to motivate and inspire her colleagues to continue lifelong learning and engage in work involving equity, CRSE, Social Emotional Learning, and restorative and transformative practices. SPA will provide Rebecca Martinez with the chance to study at one of her dream schools while also continue to learn and grow as a leader and individual. Rebecca Martinez grounds herself in her love of learning. She also loves Star Trek, D&D, and camping. Being a musician, nerd and lover of nature empower Rebecca Martinez to always share her authentic self.

My name is Moriah Wade and I am originally from Dallas, Texas. I did my undergraduate studies at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. A fun fact about me is that I finished my undergraduate degree at the age of 19. I moved to Washington DC to work for an AmeriCorps organization in 2016 and became a teacher soon thereafter. I attended John Hopkins University for my Masters of Education and I am now in SPA to continue my personal growth in leadership. One day I hope to become the Secretary of Education!

I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. No matter where I've found myself, I am a California girl at heart! I moved to San Francisco for college where I graduated with both my Bachelors of Arts in Sociology with an emphasis in Education and my Masters of Arts in Education from the University of San Francisco. During my stay in the Bay Area I moved to Oakland where I planted my initial roots as an elementary school teacher. I taught in East Oakland for 3 years before moving to Brooklyn, New York. My first three years in Brooklyn I taught in elementary schools in Park Slope and Brownsville. I am currently a founding member of a school in Harlem working as a middle school humanities teacher. My journey has been an intricate one, but every part of my experience has lead me to this opportunity. I believe in the public school system, but I believe that it is flawed. I believe that in order to see change sometimes you must be that change. Too many school leaders take on roles and perpetuate a system that was not designed for everyone to win. I was drawn to SPA because this program is actively educating future leaders to change that narrative and move on to create schools that can make real strides towards creating educational reform, closing the achievement gap, and educating students and staff holistically.

I am from Long Island. I grew up on the North Fork and now reside in Nassau County with my significant other and son. My family lives here and we love going to the beach!

I currently work at a charter high school in Brooklyn as the Associate Director of Special Education. This is my seventh year at my school and am proud to say I have seen four graduating classes! I earned both my undergraduate and graduate degrees from St. Joseph's College. I hold dual teaching certifications in general education and special education.

My professional goals include creating an equitable and inclusive learning environment for young people and developing a culture of life long learning for staff. I chose SPA because of its rigor and reputation. I recognize the gaps for adult learning and family engagement in my school and I hope to collaborate with my peers to develop systems and ideas to close those gaps.

Hi everyone! Originally from Michigan, I went to Grand Valley State University where I received a B.S. in Liberal Studies. I moved to New York in 2016 where I received my M.A. in TESOL at The City College of New York. Being an ENL teacher is one of my favorite things to be! I chose SPA because being a part of a program that puts inclusion and equity at its core was the first item on my checklist when searching for leadership programs. SPA offers just that!

I enjoy baking, being outdoors, bike riding, and traveling - oh, and eating! Give me any food and I will instantly love you.

Emily Clyburn Bodle is from Cincinnati, OH where she has worked as the art teacher at Kilgour Elementary since 2015. Prior to becoming an educator, she worked as a service member with AmeriCorps serving the youth of Cincinnati at an urban nature center. She strives to be an equitable, passionate, and community-oriented school leader. Service is at the heart of all she does and is the driving force behind how she lives her life. By attending SPA, she hopes to further develop these qualities and gain many more that will assist her in becoming an effective and thriving leader. In her free time, Emily enjoys tap dancing, doing yoga, reading, and going for hikes with her dogs.

Edward Sawyer is originally from Enfield, Connecticut and currently lives in Brooklyn, New York. He is currently a school leader and entrepreneur at an international school in Brooklyn. He completed his masters degree in education with a concentration in curriculum, instruction and STEAM education. He has a business degree and Bachelors in Business Management with a minor in Political Science. His professional goals are entrepreneurial and include starting and leading a network of high schools nationally and potentially internationally. He believes that SPA will give me the added foundation to build upon his leadership skills and cultivate a professional network of teachers and teacher leaders to grow and enhance my career. He loves spicy food, international travel, sports, and a good political debate!

Michael Cornell is currently a 5th grade teacher in a New York City public school. He previously studied elementary education at Teachers College and the educational philosophy of Soka at DePaul University. He chose SPA to further his development as a leader in education who centers students' identities and experiences and empowers them as learners.

Catherine Davis is from Wethersfield, Connecticut and she attended Emmanuel College in Boston, Massachusetts to pursue her dream of becoming an educator. Cat received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from Emmanuel in elementary education and she is also licensed to teach special education to students with moderate disabilities. Cat's first years of teaching were in substantially separate special education classrooms in the Boston Public School system. Currently, she is a sixth-grade inclusion teacher at the K - 8 Murphy school in Dorchester, Massachusetts. In addition to teaching special education at the Murphy, Cat is a member of the Instructional Leadership Team and Restorative Justice team. Cat is passionate about finding creative ways to reach all students and building strong relationships along the way. She believes that she will make a positive impact as a school leader and chose SPA because she wanted to surround herself with peers and professors who share her vision of creating more equitable and joyful schools. When she is not teaching, Cat enjoys coaching softball and basketball, exercising, and spending time with family.

Mayrovy De León is a Bronx raised, Dominican, educator and parent to a school age young man. She has proudly served as a special education teacher for the NYC Department of Education for 11 years. Needless to say, education is an intricate part of who she am. NYC has given her so much and she aspires to continue to give back to it. As an NYU, City College and soon to be Teachers College Columbia graduate, she looks forward to continuing her participation in the wave of change needed to reach success for ALL. She has always decided to enroll in NYC schools because upon extensive research she has determined that they align with her personal philosophies, so SPA was a no brainer. She am the leader of my destiny and with SPA’s help she knows she will become a leader of the future.

Jelisa was born and raised in the Bronx, NY to a family of educators. She is currently a 2nd grade special education teacher at the Holmes Innovation School in Boston, MA. She is an Oliver Scholar, a New York based program that helped shape her education and career choice. She received her undergraduate degree in Psychology from Dartmouth College, where she also spent a lot of time volunteering for programs centered around children's development and college readiness. After deciding to become an educator, she received my Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Boston College through the Donovan Urban Teaching Scholars Program. As a fifth year teacher, she's been fortunate to have leadership experience by being a member of their Innovation Team, Governing Board and being the grade team leader. As much as she has loved being in the classroom, she's realized that she can make more of an impact on her students and communities by being a school leader, which is why she chose SPA. She looks forward to learning from professors and colleagues that are dedicated to improving our schools and she's also excited to be back home!

Isela Luna is a 4th grade bilingual teacher at Chicago Public Schools. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Literature and Education at the University of California, Berkeley in 2013. In 2015, she joined Teach For America and earned her Masters in Teaching through Dominican University.

Isela is passionate about social justice education and is deeply committed to her work in the community as a local school council member. Her goals are to continue to serve in her community both inside and outside of the classroom. She is excited about the SPA program because of its commitment to equity in education. In her spare time, Isela enjoys reading, baking, and exploring the city on her bike.

Irving R. Mota Leon was born in Veracruz, Mexico and grew up in the suburbs of New York City. Irving attended CUNY City College and received a B.S. in Childhood Education. Upon graduating from City College, Irving began teaching at a NYC Public School. Irving's passion for working with language learners led him to return to City College, where he earned a Master’s Degree in TESOL. For the past 6 years Irving has been living in Puerto Rico where he worked as an elementary school teacher and currently as an academic support coach. His devotion to education propelled Irving to pursue a 2nd master’s degree in Special Education from the University of Puerto Rico. Irving will start at SPA and relocate to NYC where he aspires to continue to work with language learners and their families. He hopes to develop key skills and insightful understanding to be a transformative educational leader.

Grace Oh is a Canadian American who grew up in Vancouver, British Columbia and Seattle, Washington. She is currently a mathematics teacher at Long Island City High School and is the course team leader of 9th grade Algebra. Grace majored in Psychology and Economics at New York University, College of Arts and Science. She received her Masters of Science in Mathematics Education from St. John's University. Grace is a graduate of the New York City Teaching Fellows program and has her TESOL certification! She enjoys spending her time going for morning jogs at Astoria Park and is a lover of Mexican cuisine.

Courtney started out his career as a Project Manager in the graphic design field. He decided to switch gears after 7 years and wanted to give back to the community by becoming a teacher for the Department of Education. He graduated from Baruch CUNY with a Bachelors in Corporate Communication and then after received a Masters from Touro college. Courtney chose SPA because it was a comprehensive program that would help hone his already established leadership skills towards aiding the much needed leadership in education development in the New York community. Fun fact, he is a Martial Artist that has been practicing deep meditation and self awareness for the past 20+ years.

Justine currently lives in New Jersey where she teaches math to 8th grade students! She started out in 2017 as a 5th grade math and science teacher in Piscataway before switching to Paterson where she's been teaching for the past three years. She's excited for next year because she’ll be teaching algebra as well!

Justine graduated from Rider in 2017 with a Bachelors in Elementary Education and Integrated Sciences and Technology. She also received minors in Math, Science, and Middle School Education. Justine knew before she even got into teaching the changes that I wanted to make so she went back to school in 2019, for a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction. Justine graduated in May 2021! Now she's here for my Masters in Education!

Justine is really excited to be a part of SPA at Teachers College. She used to visit Columbia’s campus with her mom when she lived in the Bronx. She feels like she's come full circle now that she gets to walk around as a student. Justine attended a summer course in 2018 on Educational Law and Policy that was rather enjoyable. The people that she met, learned from, and collaborated with all were passionate about their work and beliefs which grounded her dedication to Columbia. She's grateful for the opportunities she has been given to get here, as well as the opportunities that will arise because of the program.

Once Justine completes this program, she plans on spending a bit more time in the classroom before jumping into an administrative role. She has considered moving from math to science so that she can have the experience teaching both sides of STEM in a middle school. Justine knows that it’s important to be well versed in the content of all her teachers, so she’d like to be that way both in practice and theory. Justine's biggest plans are to move into Educational Law so that she can learn more about the education system in America; what about it is structural or systematic and what can actually be changed to benefit those who have been left out the most. She has floated back and forth between a goal of Secretary of Education or Educational Lawyer, but she does know that she wants to fight for those who may not have a voice, and that Teachers College at Columbia will get me there.

Jacki Taylor was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she currently teaches 5th grade math and science at Jenks Public Schools - the very same school system in which she received her own K-12 education. She obtained her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Oklahoma before moving to Austin, Texas, to begin her teaching career as a 3rd grade teacher. She then moved back to Tulsa and taught 6th grade language arts and social studies for four years. A yearning for adventure and more education led Jacki to New York City to pursue a Master of Arts degree in Literacy Education at New York University. After completing her MA from NYU, Jacki returned to Austin where she taught English language arts at the middle school level for six years. This is truly where she developed a passion for social justice and equity in public education and beyond. Over her 12 years as an educator, she has held leadership roles such as professional development chair, grade level chair, and English language arts department chair. Though it can take many forms, Jacki's ultimate professional goal is to help teachers improve their overall effectiveness in order to positively impact student learning and future outcomes. She chose SPA for its rigor, programming, and commitment to equitable practices and social justice in public education. In addition to her career as an educator, Jacki loves practicing yoga, watching college football, shopping, and spending time with her two dogs, Rosco and Jon Snow.

Born and raised in Haiti, Kervens Thomas moved to Atlanta, Georgia, to attend Georgia State University. At Georgia State, Kervens received a bachelor's degree in Finance and a minor in mathematics. After college, Kervens decided to pursue a career in education, with a long-term goal of becoming a high school principal. As a result, Kervens moved to Oklahoma, where he had the privilege to teach Algebra and Statistics.

In 2018, Kervens became a Teach For America corps member and was placed at Brooklyn Frontiers High School, a New York City public school. At Brooklyn Frontiers, Kervens teaches Mathematics, Economics, and Personal Finance. In addition, Kervens serves as a coach for the men's basketball team. While serving as a TFA corps member, Kervens obtained a Master's Degree in Teaching Math in grades 7th-12th and became a Math For America fellow.

Given his aforementioned goal of becoming a high school principal, Kervens decided to attend Teachers College to develop the required competencies to lead a school effectively.

Fun-Fact: Kervens lived in five different states in the past ten years and also went skydiving.

Katisha Thompson is orginially from Brooklyn, NY and is currently employed as a Universal Literacy Reading Coach for NYC Department of Education. She is pursuing a Doctoral degree in Instructional Leadership at Hunter College but has taken a brief pause from her research to join SPA NY. Katisha chose SPA because it is her desire to acquire the skills crucial to becoming a transformative leader.

Spiro Tzakis is a First Grade teacher at The School at Columbia University in New York City. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Educational Theatre from New York University and his Master of Arts in Curriculum and Teaching at Teachers College, Columbia University. Spiro has worked in the New York City independent schools for the past 6 years in K-4 classrooms. He is passionate about creating and fostering school and classroom communities that are affirming, inclusive, and welcoming. In his school communities, Spiro has led faculty and student Gender and Sexuality Spectrum committees and presented workshops on Gender and Sexuality Education for teachers. He encourages collaboration, creativity, and innovation when working with both teachers and students. Through the SPA program, Spiro hopes to gain the necessary skills to become a greater changemaker within his school and the field of education.

Andrew Vince currently teaches United States History and Civics at Barnstable High School in Hyannis, Massachusetts. Born in New York and raised in Connecticut, Andrew earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Education at Berklee College of Music in Boston. After teaching music at BHS for four years, Andrew left to attend Western Connecticut State University in Danbury, where he earned a Master of Arts in History. He then returned to Barnstable High School to teach history. In addition to teaching, Andrew serves on the Barnstable Public Schools Professional Development Board and is a leader in the Barnstable Ally Group. Andrew has also coached the Mock Trial team and helped facilitate regional student music festivals. A fierce advocate for equity and anti-racism, Andrew seeks to empower students with the skills to be active and informed members of their community. Through enrolling in SPA, Andrew is seeking to be a transformative leader who puts equity, access, and joy at the center of the student experience. Outside of school, Andrew enjoys music, cooking, hiking, good books, spending time with family and friends, and watching the Mets.

Colette was born in Honolulu, Hawaii and raised in Bethesda, Maryland. She currently works as a Dean, Athletics Director and Educator (STEAM Education). Colette has two Bachelor's degrees in Biology and Music from Bryn Mawr College and Haverford College, respectively. She has also attained three degrees from Teachers College including a Master's of Arts in Science Education, a Master's of Education in Music Education and a Doctorate in Education in Interdisciplinary Education. Colette aspires to learn transferable skills that allow her to not only be successful in schools but also other contexts. She also has hopes to start and scale her own business. Colette chose SPA because she can't get enough of TC and it's amazing faculty that is at the forefront of education. She is an amazing academic, but also holds the record for being Columbia University's Oldest Cheerleader and Tumbler! She is also a semi-professional opera singer.

Dwayne is originally from Jamaica. He was born in Kingston and grew up in St. Ann parish with his grandparents. Currently, he is a 3rd grade teacher and google support staff at Eagle Academy Public Charter School in Washington DC. Dwayne started his educational journey at the Catholic College of Mandeville earning a B.Ed. in Education. He received both a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and a Master of Education in Teaching and Learning from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota. Dwayne also earned his Doctor of Education in Leadership and Management at St. Thomas University in Miami. His goal is to influence educational policy change in education to provide access and equity, especially for minority students and the marginalized. He can achieve this by becoming a public school leader or a superintendent of schools. Dwayne chose SPA because of its approach to provide educational leaders in training a deeper way of examining the areas in education that may be managed in such a way to provide equity and access. He also chose SPA because of its diverse and collaborative approach in developing educational leaders for urban schools. Dwayne views SPA as part of his leadership development in order to make significant change along with other like minded professionals in the field of education.

One fun fact about Dwayne is that he is part of an identical twin. His brother looks just like him! Another fun fact is that he is a published author and an avid soccer player.

Ashlee is a Cincinnati native and CPS graduate. She graduated from Xavier University with a bachelors in Early Childhood Education. Ashlee is a 2018 Teach for America alumna and began her teaching career in Charlotte, North Carolina. Now, she is back home teaching kindergarten in CPS. She hopes to inspire her students to love reading and become lifelong learners.

Erin is a graduate of Mount St. Mary's University where she majored in Political Science and Theater. She has a Master's in Educational Theater and Special Education from New York University. Erin has taught various age groups from elementary school to high school. She currently work as a sixth Math teacher at Opportunity Charter School in Harlem. Erin chose SPA because she would like to work as an assistant principal and know that this program will prepare her for that role.

Hi! My name is Molly Schettewi. I am honored to be joining the SPA program at Teachers College as an Ed. M. candidate. I received my bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Boston University. After graduation, I participated in Teach for America and earned my M.A. in education. The upcoming school year will be my tenth year in the field. I am excited to join SPA because of its emphasis on developing transformative leaders working toward creating innovative schools that empower students. In my spare time, I love to run, cook, try new restaurants, and be outside! 

Rayneshia Myers is a Connecticut native who currently lives in Jersey City, NJ, just outside of New York City. She is a graduate of Virginia State University where she studied Health Science with the pursuit to become a Registered Nurse, however quickly realized her desire to impact the world through a more macro lens. After some reflection, Rayneshia decided to attend Fordham University where she earned a Masters in Social Work while simultaneously teaching English Language Arts, to which she dedicated five years. During this time, she also attended Relay Graduate School of Education. Upon graduating with her first master's degree, she then transitioned into a School Social Work role and began to learn much more about her unique ability to lead students and staff toward change. Here is when her inner advocate abilities really shined, which blossomed into a new desire to support schools at the administration level. With the support of her experience as a teacher and social worker, she easily transitioned into School Director level roles in two separate capacities. She refused to stop there and aspired to expand her practice in education leadership at Columbia University Summer Principals Academy. She currently serves as an Instruction Leader in NYC and is currently envisioning her next adventure. In her free time, she enjoys taking African dance classes, traveling, trying new foods, and spending time with her family, friends, and puppy Graham.  

Tahlib Owens is originally from Massachusetts, but Brooklyn has called NYC home for the last six years. He received his bachelors from Tufts University in 2015 before becoming an NYC Teaching Fellow in 2017. He currently teaches ENL/ELA at the High School of Arts and Technology, where he serves as the 12th grade team lead. His mission is to ensure that all students, especially low-income, first-generation students of color receive an empowering education.

Mark Wilmot obtained his Bachelor's degree from SUNY Potsdam in 2017, double majoring in Psychology and Criminal Justice. He then began his career as an educator teaching literacy at his old middle school. He quickly fell in love with the profession and went to Relay Graduate School to obtain his Masters in Teaching and certification in special education. During this time Mark has served as a transition coordinator, grade team lead, and has led multiple sub-committees for school-based initiatives. Mark is a large proponent of student autonomy and self-advocacy. As a caseload manager Mark has dedicated his practice to helping students play an active role in their education. Mark hopes to continue this role as he transitions out of the classroom into a leadership position. Mark is currently enrolled in the Teachers College Educational Leadership (Ed.M) program.

Cameron Browne is an educator and fierce advocate for kids.  He served as the Principal of LEARN 8 Middle School, located on the west side of Chicago.  However, at the end of this summer, he will be transitioning back to his hometown of Denver, CO to be the Assistant Principal of Denver East High School, the oldest and largest high school in the city.  Browne received his undergraduate degree in Sociology with a minor in African American studies from Princeton University.  Upon graduating in 2012 he joined Teach for America, and moved to Chicago to teach middle school science and social studies.  His passion for educating marginalized populations and his pursuit to challenge the status quo ushered Browne into school leadership positions very early in his career.  This same fight for equity led Browne to the SPA program at Teachers College.

Steven Lawrence is a native of Montclair NJ. Currently, he teaches High School English. He attended Temple University as an Undergraduate student and went on to pursue my Masters Degree at Teachers College, Columbia University in 2013. Professionally, he hopes to become an Educational Specialist within the US Department of Education. He chose SPA for its demonstration of excellence, and his experience with his first Masters Degree Program at TC. He is a lover of the gym, shopping and traveling. Being an agent of change and disruptor of education is his passion in life.