Distinguished Teachers

The following excerpts are from the nominating information submitted to the Lindback Foundation for the winning Philadelphia high school teachers. There is one winner from each school.

Latoyia K. Bailey began teaching in 1996. As the Academy at Palumbo's English teacher, she follows this educational philosophy: "A hundred years from now, it will not matter what my bank account was, the sort of house I had lived in, or the kind of car I drove, but the world may be different because I was important in the life of a student."

Louis Mazza is an exemplary library media specialist and media arts teacher at the Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush. He is known for creating maximum opportunities to build student leadership in his classrooms. Some of his students have so quickly mastered the techniques of photography that they parlay their skills into paid photography jobs while still in high school.

William Thompson has taught special education and social studies at Audenried High School since it reopened. His history classes challenge students to perform at a high academic level. This energetic educator formed and coaches the mock trial team and the boys' lacrosse team - one of the first in the Philadelphia Public School Lacrosse League.

Elizabeth Humphries is in her third year at Bartram High School, now teaching world history and serving as the school-based teacher leader for the social studies department. She has a master's degree in urban education from the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of Education. Her thesis examined research on high school dropouts and programs currently being implemented in Philadelphia to reduce dropouts.

Elena Vasilatos graduated from Temple University with a bachelor's degree in education, majoring in Spanish and English. At Benjamin Franklin High School, she has been the foreign language department head, a member of the leadership team, and senior class sponsor. She says she loves watching the faces of struggling students when they finally "get it."

Carlos dos Santos has taught Spanish at Bodine High for International Affairs since 2003, infusing his work with academic rigor and passion. He uses music and poetry to motivate students through dynamic connections between contemporary culture and their personal lives. He also teaches sportsmanship, teamwork, and perseverance as the coach of the girls' basketball and boys' soccer teams. Everything he does communicates high expectations for student performance.

Dominique St. Juste holds a bachelor's degree in biology and psychology from Long Island University, and a doctoral degree in dentistry from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine. Her areas of expertise include biology, anatomy, physiology, and earth and physical sciences. This superb educator's focus is on the student as an individual, striving to find a way to reach each one.

Jason M. Todd, who teaches U.S. and world history, is a graduate of Kutztown University and earned his master's degree in secondary education from the University of Pennsylvania. He incorporates technology in every lesson and searches for ways to make his lessons rigorous and relevant. This exemplary teacher also organized the school's intramural sports program to raise student achievement and school spirit.

Alice Clark has been an outstanding teacher of mathematics in the district for 35 years. Before coming to Carver, she taught at Cooke Junior High School and Dobbins High School. She has been mathematics chair, student government and senior class sponsor, cheerleading coach, graduation coordinator, and Middle States coordinator. Under her leadership, students' math SAT scores and Pennsylvania System of School Assessment scores have improved.

John McMillian is a superior teacher in all subject areas related to biology sciences. He invests in students and the professional nature of his subject. He has taught at Central and Kensington High Schools and at Community College of Philadelphia. He inspires students and helps them learn at the highest possible levels, and helps new teachers succeed.

Zachary Bencan attended Duke University, graduating magna cum laude with a bachelor of science degree in psychology and a minor in biology with a concentration in neuroscience. He is in his third year of teaching science at Communications Technology High School. Outside the classroom, he is the student government sponsor, varsity baseball coach, and science credit recovery teacher.

Robert Paul has been teaching in the district for 10 years, eight of them at Sayre High School in West Philadelphia. He teaches English at Constitution High School, where he is a member of the building committee and a faculty judge on the student government's supreme court. He also teaches in the school's Saturday enrichment program.

Joseph Cunningham attended Abington High School and earned his bachelor's degree from Juniata College in 1998. He served as a substitute teacher at Cheltenham High School before coming to Dobbins. Involved in the Secondary Robotics Initiative, this distinguished teacher serves on the BEST (Boosting Engineering, Science, and Technology) robotics steering committee. Under his guidance, Dobbins' robotics team has traveled on numerous occasions to Auburn, Ala., to compete.

Grant Sporny is a dedicated teacher who has a positive rapport with staff and students. He demonstrates an advanced level of knowledge of the subjects he teaches and strategically plots, plans, and delivers the most exciting and interesting lessons. His students line up at his door for the opportunity to meet with him, and parents welcome his phone calls of support for their children.

Born in Venezuela, Amalfi Ramirez Finnerty has taught for 20 years in urban and suburban schools in both the United States and in Europe. She earned a bachelor of fine arts degree (cum laude) from the University of Pennsylvania, a four-year certificate from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, and a master's degree in education from Arcadia University, and was awarded a J. William Fulbright Fellowship for teaching.

A product of Masterman and Central High Schools, Micah Reyes took his background in physics and decided to return to the Philadelphia public school system as a science teacher after five years as an educator at the Franklin Institute. Now in his fourth year at Fels High School, he continues to challenge his students to improve and achieve beyond their expectations.

Muhammad Abdul-Aleem is a certified secondary science teacher and one of the leaders of the school community. He has taught eighth-grade science, physical science, physics, chemistry, and biology as well as various science courses in the school's OASIS program. This team player is dedicated to his colleagues, is well respected by them, and mentors many of the school's young men.

Wilma W. Stephenson has been dedicated to teaching at Frankford High School for 41 years. She is a culinary arts teacher renowned for her inspirational and unconventional teaching style. Her practice has changed the lives of numerous students. Those who have participated in culinary competitions under her guidance have won more than $3.5 million in scholarships to the top colleges and universities in the nation.

Fluent in English and Greek, Anna Hatziandreou developed a love of language and literature at an early age. As Franklin Learning Center's English department leader, she created and added Advanced Placement courses to the school's curriculum. She spends an immense amount of time researching new content, always aiming to "raise the bar" for her colleagues and students.

Katina Mitses' qualifications include a bachelor's degree in international business/foreign language from Immaculata University, a master's in linguistics/teaching English as a second language from the University of Delaware, and certificates from the teacher-certification program at the University of Pennsylvania and the reading-specialist certification program at Cabrini College. She helps students as adviser to the school's Build-On Club.

David A. Baker describes himself as "an eclectic, seriously late bloomer." His first interest was music; he "backed into" teaching math in his mid-30s. He has now realized his aspiration - to teach Advanced Placement calculus - after starting out at Germantown High School teaching Algebra 1 and geometry.

Rachel Horenstein came to the Girard Academic Music Program in 2003 as a counseling intern and long-term substitute after teaching for two years in New York City. She became its counselor in 2006 and is considered a vital part of the school community. Aside from counseling, this dynamic faculty member tutors, coaches, advises student council, and serves on the school's leadership team.

In her 12 years in the Philadelphia public school system, Michele L. Armstrong has taught everything from English 1 to Advanced Placement literature. She believes that each student she comes into contact with makes her a better teacher. Her approach is to address each student's situation as she would that of her own child. Not surprisingly, she has an excellent rapport with students, staff, and the community.

Thomas E. Gaffey Jr. has been teaching in the district for three years. He is a certified math and technology educator at the School of the Future. His range of professional responsibilities and services includes robotics, math, science, and help desk. His peers describe him as a very dedicated educator, able to lead in any situation.

Michael V. Cole strives to be a role model for his students and colleagues in all aspects of his professional and personal interactions at his school. He sees his role as a teacher leader and mentor as allowing him to inspire and motivate fellow staff members and students, and empowering them to use teaching and learning to set and achieve their own high goals.

As a 10-year employee at the school, Gregory D. Isaacs has piloted many initiatives that have propelled its advancement. An instructor of Advanced Placement government and psychology, he is passionate not only about the classroom but also about athletics; he expects 100 percent from his students in the classroom and on the playing field.

A native of Puerto Rico and a graduate of Philadelphia High School for Girls and Temple University, Anna Hilda Mojica is the quintessential educator. She has devoted 38 years to serving the students and families of the Kensington community. With a concentration in English as a second language, she has taught countless students over the years and has helped make real for them the American dream.

King High School counselor Crystal Little has been shaping the minds of students for many years. Her invaluable insight and career guidance have helped innumerable students reach their full potential. Through her deliberate actions and strategic planning, and her own confidence and poise, she has guided students to self-discovery - and success.

In this technological age, a skilled teacher like Michele G. Miller is indeed an asset to her school, its staff, and its students. As an instructor of social studies and technology, she has given her students the skills and knowledge to present what they know and are able to do in projects that shine with their level of rigor and excellence.

Her peers describe Jennifer Hardisky as a team player who daily demonstrates excellence in her content knowledge and in her palpable desire and commitment to move students to a higher level academically. She puts children first at all times - in the classroom, during preparation periods, and after school.

Over their teacher's 13-year career at Lincoln High School, many of Raymond Pascal Lucci's students have won prestigious awards. However, it is those everyday accomplishments in the school - for which there are no awards - that demonstrate daily that he is an outstanding teacher of biology, anatomy, and physiology and a valued asset to the faculty.

Mallory Loveridge has received this significant recognition in only her second year as a teacher. She graduated from Kansas State University, then came to Philadelphia through Teach for America. She teaches Algebra 2 and geometry and serves as the girls' junior-varsity basketball coach and junior class sponsor. She and her family donated money this year to buy warm-up suits for the girls varsity and junior-varsity teams.

John J. Gannon has served Masterman in many capacities since 1981: as an instructor of U.S. government and economics, basketball and cross-country coach, and alumni liaison. He has a reputation for having an influence on students that remains strong long after they graduate. He is valued as one of the most respected members of the Masterman staff and "the glue that holds the school together."

Andrea Powell has been with Motivation since the program began as a part of Bartram High School. She is a passionate, exceptional, and devoted math teacher, mentor, and expert instructional coach to her students. Her students and peers agree that there is one word that best describes this fantastic teacher of algebra, geometry, and advance math: outstanding.

Crystal Green prides herself on preparing her students for a productive and successful future. She has degrees from Lubbock Christian University and the University of Oklahoma. This inspirational educator teaches geometry and Algebra 1 classes in a program for at-risk ninth graders. She also works in the after-school program with students who dropped out but who have returned to get their diplomas.

A graduate of Temple and Arcadia Universities, William F. Feuda has been the literacy liaison at Olney East High School for the last five years and has served as a mentor to many new teachers. His 33-year career at Olney East and at its predecessor school, Olney High, has been distinguished by numerous programmatic innovations that he implemented to the benefit of students.

Since 1997, Jayne T. Johnson has worked diligently in her classroom to enhance student curiosity, knowledge, and understanding of history. Her humble personality belies her success in motivating students and spurring them on to achievements in the classroom and in state and local competitions. This consummate professional enjoys the support and respect of her colleagues and her students' warm appreciation.

Vicki L. Baker took a serendipitous route to teaching, beginning with careers as a research chemist and in corporate food marketing development. She began teaching mathematics at Overbrook High School in September 2002. Pursuing her passion for science, math, and creative challenges, she started the highly successful Overbrook High School Robotics Team in 2004. It has been a Philadelphia top finisher in each of the last six years.

John Condello is certified in math, special education, and elementary education and teaches geometry and personal finance at Parkway Center City High School. Students are quick to describe him as a great math teacher and a strong role model and motivator in their lives. Fellow teachers say he is a constant source of inspiration and they feel fortunate to have him as a colleague.

Tina Weinraub demonstrates that she is the consummate librarian through regularly coteaching in the SHARE (Spanish, History, Art, Research, English) program and by serving as the school's research teacher. Through collaborative grant writing, she has automated the library and expanded the availability of technology, further exposing her students to the world of reading and the doors that it opens for them.

As a product of the Philadelphia School District, Kareem Demetrius Edwards is an exemplary model for students. Having firsthand knowledge of the obstacles they may face, he establishes a genuine rapport with them, always insisting that they work to their full potential. An invaluable technology resource, he is always willing to go the extra mile to assist students and staff.

DeWayne Rawlings has spent 37 years devoting his time, talents, and energy molding and shaping young people's dreams and aspirations. He is a teacher of music and photography - but much more - for students at Penn High School. He helps students complete college applications. One of his current students says the teacher demonstrates "how a man should conduct himself under pressure" and how students should perform to the best of their ability.

Jennifer A. Sugden has a zeal for teaching math at Pennypack House School, which is in a facility for adjudicated youths. She effectively uses technology to capture and hold students' attention while engaging them in the learning process. She builds bridges of trust with her students, who respect her for her compassion and her genuine interest in them and their personal and academic growth.

Marcia K. Henderson-White's passion for teaching goes back to fifth grade. Little did she realize then that she would later pursue this vocation, taking the first step by enrolling at Temple University. She notes that nothing compares to the gratification she feels when former students express their appreciation for the positive influence their teacher has had on their lives.

Richard Moon began his teaching career with the district in 1975. He is an appointed science teacher at Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts. This outstanding classroom instructor has a master's degree in secondary education and a doctorate in science education, both from Temple University. He has also taught at Community College of Philadelphia.

Marie Fleming-Litman began her career with the district in 1971 as counselor and school nurse at Gratz High School. She served as lead counselor at Wanamaker Middle School before moving to Philadelphia High School for Girls in 1999. This key member of the faculty not only carries out the traditional roles of the counselor, but also works with students to design and sew costumes for school productions.

Shakae M. Dupre, a Central High School graduate, earned undergraduate and master's degrees from St. Joseph's University and is pursuing her K-12 principal certification at the University of Pennsylvania. At Philadelphia Learning Academy North, one of two new alternative schools operated by the district, she teaches English 4. She also serves as the instructional reform facilitator, mentoring and coaching 10 new teachers alongside her principal.

Camille A. Booth is a talented teacher at Philadelphia Learning Academy South, one of the two new alternative schools operated by the district. Her lessons are engaging, creative, and tailored to meet the needs of her students both academically and in the social/emotional areas. As a result, her students respond favorably to her instruction.

Radovan Bratic is a Bosnian native who earned a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from Sarajevo University and served a year in the Bosnian army. He worked as a mechanical engineer before pursuing his dream of teaching mathematics. He completed the Transition to Teaching Program here and started his new career at Frankford High School. He was selected for a mathematics position at the Philadelphia Military Academy at Elverson.

Deane Gordon has been a science teacher in the Philadelphia School District for 14 years. He has a master's degree in education from Widener University and a bachelor's degree in biology from Kansas State University. Before taking up teaching, he was a fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force for 22 years. He is the instructional leader/science teacher at Philadelphia Military Academy at Leeds.

Nicole L. Padula's students leave her classroom not only with math skills, but also with pride, a love of learning, and a sense of responsibility. Her enthusiasm and ability to relate to students' varied learning styles and needs keep the entire class engaged. Her door is always open for anyone who needs extra help; she supports students through tutoring and homework sessions.

Jaclyn Palone is an extraordinary special-education liaison. She demands excellence in the form of quality teaching as she supports her school's special-education students. They commend her for her commitment and compassion, knowing she sets high expectations and will support them without fail. The relationship with parents also is important to her; she respectfully teaches parents, advocating for the best interests of all students.

Rosa Dubisette's theater course provides students with opportunities to perform before audiences on the Avenue of the Arts. With her guidance and through her expertise, great works such as Antigone, Hamlet, and Metamorphosis come alive through student slide shows and animation presentations. This teacher has influenced many students to attend college through her superior classroom instruction and her magnetic personality.

Kathleen M. Sligh, described by colleagues as a professional of personal strength and character, began teaching in the district in 1980. She spent most of her career teaching chemistry and physics at the Girard Academic Music Program, but she voluntarily transferred to Roxborough High School in 2003. In addition to her teaching assignments, she sponsors the science club and its entries in the annual Carver Science Fair.

Coming from private industry, Gaetano Amoroso joined the Saul High School staff in 1992 as the teacher of food and meat sciences. He redesigned the curriculum for both courses to reflect the highest scientific and industry standards. His classroom involves instruction on an advanced academic level as well as a hands-on laboratory. Apart from teaching, he serves as sophomore class sponsor and graduation coordinator.

Theresa Joy Eck was raised in the Grays Ferry section of Philadelphia and graduated from Central High School and Temple University. Currently teaching social science and Advanced Placement U.S. history at Sayre High School, she is attending Cabrini College to attain certification as a reading specialist. This dedicated teacher, who is always willing to assist in student activities, sponsors the senior class and school store.

After a teaching career in Maryland, Brad Latimer earned a master's degree at the University of Pennsylvania, also serving at that time as the assistant academic coordinator of the athletics department. He is mathematics department chair at Science Leadership Academy, founder of its math lab and math enrichment programs, and assistant track-and-field coach. Without hesitation he sacrifices is own time to ensure that his students succeed.

Juan Acevedo earned his degree from and is enrolled in graduate school at the University of Pennsylvania. Engaging students in rigorous mathematics instruction every day requires creativity and an understanding of the teaching and learning processes. Each day, every period, this respected educator stands and delivers instruction that connects students to their real-world experiences.

Lisa Marie Thomas has a bachelor's degree and master's degrees in business administration and education from Widener University and is certified in secondary mathematics as a supervisor of curriculum and instruction and in K-12 administration. As a board member of the Columbia North YMCA of Philadelphia and a member of the National Forum for Black Public Administrators, this energetic leader serves not only her school but also the community.

Claudia DiCrosta was born and raised in Portugal. She holds a bachelor's degree in Spanish from Chestnut Hill College, where she minored in secondary education and psychology. Her first teaching position was at William Penn High School. Moving to Swenson Arts and Technology High School in 2006, she demonstrated her commitment to its students from the first day. She also mentors Temple and La Salle University students who are prospective Spanish teachers.

Donna L. Jones is an outstanding teacher of students with special needs. She has an incredible work ethic and is a model teacher not only for her fellow special-education teachers but also for all the teachers with whom she works. Her students love her and excel in the classroom because of her tireless efforts, and her colleagues respect her and are inspired by her.

Michael Shore grew up in Margate, N.J. After 11 years in the corporate sector, motivated to giving back to society, he decided to change careers and become a teacher. His colleagues at Vaux High School say he instills in his coworkers and his students the values of knowledge, hopes, dreams, and perseverance and a caring, optimistic attitude.

A Washington High School graduate, Yvonne M. Schwiker was thrilled to return as a faculty member. As a life-skills teacher, she is known for integrating her students into the daily life of the school. Her students in the daily maintenance vocational program launder the football team's uniforms. They also helped sell brownies to send five of the school's football players to Texas.

Rekha Bhatt, who has been teaching English at West Philadelphia High School for the last three years, came to the school through Teach for America. She developed and implemented Advanced Placement courses in English literature and language. She serves as the school's senior class sponsor and has implemented a schoolwide tutoring program.

Linda L. Gallagher has a thorough knowledge of special education, which, combined with her excellent organizational, communication, and technology skills, enables her to maintain students' individual education plans to an optimum level. She is always available to help students, parents, and staff, and is especially successful in helping physically disabled Widener Memorial School students make successful transitions to post-high school settings.

Winifred C. Freeman is a veteran teacher who has dedicated her career to working with children and youths in the alternative-education setting. She strives to provide students in detention with a quality education, and engages in professional activities that benefit the school program. Her accomplishments in the Nanotechnology Project and Teachers of American History Fellows Program have resulted in increased student skills in science and social studies.