In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, which is observed annually from September 15-October 15, Gotham Avenue School students welcomed three inspiring and influential Hispanic district leaders to share their personal stories of success.

On October 15, the school proudly hosted Elmont School District’s Director of Pupil Personnel Audrey Cabbell, Director of Technology Fernando DeBartolo and Gotham’s own Assistant Principal Sonia Rodrigo. These dynamic leaders participated in a lively and engaging Q&A panel, offering students a special opportunity to learn from their experiences and wisdom.

During the event, held in the school’s gymnasium, the three esteemed guests answered thoughtfully prepared and researched questions from sixth grade Student Government representatives, and generously shared their unique backgrounds and cultural experiences.

"It was an inspiring event that highlighted pride for Hispanic heritage and fostered a deeper appreciation of cultural differences among our students,” Assistant Principal Kimberly Farina stated.

Date Added: 10/23/2024

 

The Elmont Union Free School District is excited to welcome two dynamic educators to its leadership team. Pamela Boyd has been named the new assistant principal of Stewart Manor School, and Kimberly Farina has joined Sonia Rodrigo as assistant principal at Gotham Avenue School.

Ms. Boyd is a seasoned educational professional with a demonstrated history of successfully raising student academic outcomes. A familiar face to the district, she has taught at Covert Avenue School almost exclusively since 2002, most recently as a third grade teacher. Her leadership highlights include spearheading the "Girls Who Code" program for third grade girls, guiding them toward STEM careers, and playing a key role in training staff on Go Math and IXL. She also collaborated with district leaders on curriculum development and the virtual report card initiative. Ms. Boyd also served as a math specialist for Rose Hill Elementary School in Virginia. There, she analyzed K-6 student scores, conducted classroom observations and created action plans for the benefit of 500 students, and trained staff on the implementation of a new mathematics program.

Ms. Boyd holds a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University, a master’s in elementary education from Long Island University and a School District Administrator certificate from Queens College.

Ms. Farina joins Elmont with 19 years of educational experience, most recently as a district mathematics instructional coach in the Plainview-Old Bethpage School District. Throughout her years in education, she has been a valued and respected member of her school community and has built a positive rapport with students, families, staff and administration. She has excelled in supporting teachers through professional development, curriculum oversight and data analysis. Before her role in POB, Ms. Farina spent 15 years working for the Department of Education, where she taught multiple elementary grade levels, served as a staff mentor and helped facilitate parent workshops to increase engagement in student learning.

Ms. Farina earned her bachelor’s degree from SUNY New Paltz, along with master’s degrees in teaching literacy and school leadership from Touro College.

The district is thrilled to have such accomplished leaders join Elmont schools and looks forward to the positive impact they will have on our students and community!

Date Added: 10/8/2024