Abigail Ortiz is the bus coordinator and a teacher’s aide at Olmsted #64. She is also the parent of two Olmsted #64 dual language program students. She is an integral part of the Olmsted family with many important roles including helping in the office, the cafeteria, and the classrooms.

Team Talk - Ms. Ortiz

Mary Persaud is a 4th grade Special Education teacher who strives to provide the best educational environment possible for her students. She works tirelessly to help her students realize their potential, so they can proudly dispel the preconceptions of those that may underestimate their abilities.

Teacher Talk - Mrs. Persaud

Shane Hornquist teaches Aquatic Ecology and Conservation at McKinley High School and shares his expertise remotely with the Global Scholars from #156. His program, part of Career and Technical Education, allows students to gain knowledge and skills to help address local conservation concerns.

Global Scholars from #156 Interview Mr. Hornquist

Caitlin Orgek is an enthusiastic Global Studies teacher at East Community High School. She studied abroad in Germany while serving as an English teaching assistant. She is a Fullbright Scholar that came back to Buffalo and gained her teaching credentials through the UB Teacher Residency program.

Teacher Talk - Ms. Orgek

Claudine Picado- Home Language Arts teacher at Bilingual Center #33 founded a Veteran’s Project which strengthens students’ verbal communications skills and supports our veterans. This project is supported by principal Lisa LoVallo-Coyle, school counselor Beth Porterfield, and the staff of PS #33.

More Information about the Bilingual Center’s Veteran Project

Sterling South is a Social Worker at South Park and a facilitator of the STLP Summer Internship. Sterling empowers students to succeed. His dedication and genuine care for each student has transformed countless lives. His unwavering support and belief in their potential is an inspiration to all.

James Damon, a Science teacher at Emerson #302, has been given Super Bowl tickets by Damar Hamlin for his heroic use of CPR to help save the life of a fellow Western New Yorker. Mr. Damon is a NYS Master Teacher, soccer coach, runs the 3D printing club, and WozED instructor.

Thanks to Mr. Damon

Janine Winterberg keeps the Waterfront BPS #95 swim program thriving. She provides swimsuits and towels for students in need and launders them. She awards wonderful prizes to students for their progress. She selflessly provides safety

Jasmine Davis teaches 2nd grade at Harvey Austin, is Guardian of Equity, and helps run My Sister’s Keeper. She has a contagious enthusiasm for celebrating her students’ diversity and helps students take advantage of enrichment programs that allow them to engage in many activities such as ziplining.

Teacher Talk- Ms. Davis

Kezia Pearson is the dedicated instructor of the STLP’s Cinematography Studies. She empowers students with skills in film production, storytelling, and editing. Her passion and expertise help students bring their creative visions to life, preparing them for future careers in media.

BPS Cinematography

Niamh Quigley is IT Department Clerk at the CITT. Niamh consistently supports students, families, and staff with their tech needs. Her warm demeanor makes visitors feel welcome, and she’s always ready to lend a hand. Her commitment to assisting with student devices makes her invaluable to the BPS.

Cheryl Guido, Coordinator of Instructional Technology Programs, ran this summer's STLP Summer Internship. Cheryl ensured its success, provided guidance, training, and successfully managed logistics. Her commitment to empowering students with technology has left a lasting impression on students.

STLP Video

Belinda Clifford, of Olmsted #156 is a special education teacher who provides her students with a work-based learning opportunity with the IT department. She exemplifies unwavering advocacy for her students, consistently going above and beyond to ensure they receive the support they need to thrive.

John Hy teaches Horticulture at South Park High School and remotely shares his expertise with the Global Scholars from Harriet Ross Tubman #31. His program, part of Career and Technical Education, allows students to gain knowledge and skills related to caring for garden crops and ornamental plants.

31 Excursion CTE Interview

Tracy Rose is the arts coordinator at Arthur O. Eve School of Distinction. She works with teachers to incorporate arts across the curriculum promoting creativity, engagement, and growth. She uses art education to promote resilience in her students and to improve student interest in academics.

Teacher Talk - Mrs. Rose

Elizabeth Brunn at Hutch Tech creatively engages her students using project-based learning! Her students present organelle cell structures using Adobe Express to create digital flyers requiring the organelles to compete, as if campaigning, changing science lessons into activities students enjoy.