BIO:
Lynn Cardo graduated from St. Thomas Aquinas College with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Psychology. After graduating, Lynn took a position at St. Therese School in Cresskill where she taught Second Grade for seven years. After raising her family, she went on to work in the Cresskill School District for the past thirteen years as a paraprofessional. Lynn resides in Cresskill with her husband Jim and their children Trevor, Austin, Mackenzie and their two dogs Cookie and Luna.

Hometown:
Cresskill, NJ

I am excited to work at the Academy because:
Catholic education always feels like an extended family.

Teaching Philosophy:
Each and every child has the right to a quality and meaningful education. I have always treated my students with love and respect. I believe that it is the teacher’s responsibility to help mold these young students into respectful, responsible, and well-educated young people.

Fun Fact:
I love Cowboy Boots and Country Music.

When I am not in the classroom:
You will find me on my deck reading a good book.

Ask me about:
My children and my dogs.

Personal Motto:
TODAY is a PERFECT DAY to be AWESOME!

Bio:
Ashli Cassidy graduated from New Jersey City University with a Bachelor’s degree in English. After graduating she took a semester off before continuing her education at Felician University. While at Felician, Ashli obtained her Elementary K-5 certification. She also holds a Middle School Language Arts and Teacher of English certification. Ashli’s teaching experience ranges from Pre-Kindergarten all the way to High School. For six years Ashli taught Pre-K aged children in East Rutherford and for the last year Ashli worked as an Instructional Paraprofessional at Community High School in Teaneck. It is while she worked at Community that Ashli realized her true passion for teaching older students. Ashli currently resides in Wallington with her husband Patrick and their 7 year old daughter Laila Rose.

Hometown:
Wallington, NJ

I like working at the Academy because…
It is a welcoming environment and feels like home

Teaching philosophy:
“I believe that children learn best when they are active participants in their learning. Being able to move around, collaborate with their peers and teachers allows for a greater experience overall.”

Fun fact:
I have seen Paul McCartney in concert three times. He is my favorite Beatle.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
In my backyard reading a good book.

Ask me about:
My family, my favorite authors, the NY Mets and the Beatles

Personal motto:
“Never give up!”

Bio:
Donna Clifford earned an Associate of Arts and Sciences degree in early childhood education and a bachelor’s degree in early childhood, elementary, and special education from Barry University in Miami Shores, Florida. She has over thirty years experience teaching and has raised two sons that she is very proud of.

Hometown:
Washington Township, New Jersey

I like working at the Academy because…
The faculty camaraderie, the supportive and caring parents, the Catholic roots with an eye toward the future, and most of all the children, for whom I will be their very first teacher. It’s an honor and privilege.

Teaching philosophy:
Each child is a unique individual. I strive to find the special strengths each brings and cultivate them in a safe, nurturing environment, while instilling life values they can carry with them as foundations of their education.

Fun fact:
I love to watch the New York Yankees with my pug, Buddy, and husband, Peter, a retired teacher himself.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
Reading, gardening, cooking, and hanging with my family.

Ask me about:
My family.

Personal motto:
Make a difference each day.

Bio:
Ashley graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from The University of Scranton. After graduating, she went on and completed a certification program for Teaching Students with Disabilities at Felician University. During the summer, she works as a camp director at the Englewood Field Club, supervising three, four, and five year olds. Ashley currently resides in Teaneck with her husband and daughter, Lauren Anne.

Bio:
Dominique Cornetta graduated from New Jersey City University with a dual degree in early childhood education and psychology. While attending school she worked for a preschool where her passion for teaching grew. She is the eldest of four and is a dance teacher at a local school. She loves teaching and helping others.

Hometown:
Demarest, NJ

I like working at the Academy because…
It feels like home.

Teaching philosophy:
“I believe children are like sponges. They soak up information from all around them. It amazes me when they take the information they have learned and share it with the world.”

Fun fact:
I love to cook and feed people. I also love to chase sunsets and sunrises. The sky amazes me.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
At the beach. It doesn’t matter what time of the year it is. The ocean is a beautiful place to be.

Ask me about:
My cooking, family and travel plans. I’m always on the move.

Personal motto:
“I call my students “my kids” because in our year together they aren’t just kids on my class list, they become a part of my heart.”

Bio:  
I have a Biology degree from the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, VA.  For several years I taught English as a second language to high school and college age students from all over the world. My Masters of Science in Teaching is from St. Thomas Aquinas College in Sparkill, NY.

Hometown: 
Cincinnati, Ohio

I like working at the Academy because… 
I get to do Science with every single student in the school, from Pre-K 3 on up through 8th grade!

Teaching philosophy:
There is always a key to unlock any student for learning.  You’ve got to find it and use it, and then you have to realize that the key may change over time and you’ll need a new one.

Fun fact: 
I love Bhangra and Bollywood music.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
Outside in nature or inside reading a good book.

Ask me about:
Friday Fun Facts!

Personal motto:
Our world is such a fascinating place, and I’m blessed to have been given the gift of finding wonder and joy in it every single day.

Bio:
Toni Essman is a graduate of Jersey City State College.  She holds a permanent Teaching Certification in the state of NJ.  She has a B.A. in Early Childhood and Elementary Education with a minor in Art.  She is the Religion Coordinator, the Student Council Moderator, and a co-advisor for the Geography Club.

Hometown:
Bergenfield, NJ, originally, Brooklyn, NY

I like working at the Academy because…  
Students’ diversity and the Christian morals and values that are taught here.  I learn so much from my students.  I especially like working with the students as the Student Council Moderator. I feel the students are developing citizenship and making a difference in the community. In other words, they are paying it forward.

Teaching Philosophy:
God gives each of us special talents.  It is the responsibility and role of a teacher to recognize and understand this viewpoint. Not every student should be taught in the same manner.  Each teacher must develop strategies to enhance each child’s learning and progress. The key to a student’s success is to make sure he or she has good self-esteem and self-confidence. Each day the student is looking forward to attend school because he/she really enjoys school. Also, a good sense of humor is important.

Fun Fact:
I love to paint and to perform in Mr. G’s plays.

My favorite movie is:  
A Walk in the Clouds

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll likely find me:
At home cooking, shopping online, or taking care of my grandson.

Ask me:
To tell a story about an animal, my childhood, my family, or some history trivia!

Personal Motto:
Sometimes you just gotta dance!

Bio:
Dana Falcicchio graduated with a degree in Psychology and Elementary Education from William Paterson University. She is currently working on a Masters Degree in School Counseling from Montclair State University.

Hometown:
Bergenfield, NJ

I like working at the Academy because…
Together with the students, parents and staff I feel as though we are all a part of one family with one goal in mind: the success of our children.

Teaching philosophy:
A quote from Joseph Campbell, “The job of an educator is to teach students to see the vitality in themselves.” I want every student in my classroom to feel it in them that they can do it.

Fun fact:
I had a New York Yankees themed wedding!

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
At home cheering on the Yankees with my family.

Ask me about:
The Beatles and I Love Lucy!

Personal motto:
“There’s no place like home.” –The Wizard of Oz

Bio:
Stephanie Gerlach graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Humanities and an Elementary Teaching certification from Montclair State University. After a number of years teaching in primary grades, she returned to MSU to obtain a Master’s degree in Reading, along with a certification as a K-12 Reading Specialist.
She is a firm believer that strong literacy skills pave the way to academic success!

Hometown:
Paramus, New Jersey

I like working at the Academy because:
I appreciate being able to openly express my faith in God, and to draw upon the teachings of Jesus to help my students develop empathy for others. I also love the sense of family that you get from being part of a faith community.

Teaching philosophy:
I believe that each child is unique, that children learn differently and at their own rate, and that my job as a teacher is to vary my teaching methods to meet each student’s needs. I believe that the classroom should be a welcoming, nurturing, and fun environment where all students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and ideas.

Fun Fact:
I grind my teeth! In fact, I ask my students to let me know if they ever hear me grinding, because it’s a habit I’ve been trying to stop.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
Out socializing with family and friends…..or planning my next vacation!

Ask me about:
My “addiction” to turkey sandwiches.

Personal Motto:
It’s better to have your nose in a book than in someone else’s business.

BIO:
I received my MST in Elementary Education from Pace University, and my BA in Politics from New York University. I am certified in both Elementary and Social Studies teaching. Most recently, I worked as the Director of Education at the Hermitage Museum in Ho-Ho-Kus, where I created and taught history programs to students of all ages. Previously, I taught 1st and 2nd grades in NYC Catholic schools.

Hometown:
I grew up in New York City.

I am excited to work at the Academy because:
Because I believe in Catholic education! All of my children attended Catholic schools, and I appreciate the family atmosphere and the emphasis on values and faith that is found in Catholic schools.

Teaching Philosophy:
I encourage my students to try their best, to respect others, to be honest and responsible, to be generous in helping others, and to grow in their faith. It’s ok to make mistakes – that’s how we learn.

Fun Fact:
My family has visited Disney theme parks at least 30 times over the years, and now my daughter works at Walt Disney World.

When I am not in the classroom:
Watching classic movies, visiting historic sites, doing puzzles, walking my dog and spending time with my family.

Ask me about:
My family and my dog, a Cavalier King Charles named Duke.

Personal Motto:
Keep Moving Forward

Bio:
Tracey Hulse has been teaching for over 15 years. Ms. Hulsehas degrees from Mercy College and Long Island University where she received her Masters degree in Elementary education. She is excited to be once again teaching in Catholic education after extensive experience working in public schools in New York and New Jersey.

Hometown:
Northvale, NJ

I am excited to work at the Academy because…
it already feels like a second home and everyone is very kind.

Teaching Philosophy:
I believe that all children deserve an individualized education, that’s as unique as they are. We should all take educational risks, make mistakes and learn from them as we go.

Fun Fact:
I love to listen to music and have dance parties with my children!

When I’m not in the classroom you will find me…
Reading a book, with my children, at the beach, outdoors or watching HGTV.

Ask me about:
My family.

My personal motto:
Enjoy life and have fun because you don’t know what tomorrow will bring!

Bio:
Barbara Izzard has a bachelors degree and two Masters Degrees.  She has taught various levels of math for more than 25 years in both the New York Public School System and the Catholic School System.  She is the former Math Coordinator for the 6th grade math-mapping curriculum project.

Hometown:
New York

I like working at the Academy because….
We make math look cool.

Teaching philosophy:
If you can walk, talk, and chew gum, you can do math.

Fun fact:
I love to watch college and professional football.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
With my family watching NBC’s Parks and Rec.

Ask me about:
Sports

Personal motto:
Everything in life works out, I don’t know how, but it does.

Bio:
E. Jane Keitel: Ms. Keitel graduated from Montclair State University, where she studied music and education; and from the American Academy of Dramatic Arts. She has been teaching for over 20 years in numerous NJ school districts and in professional NJ music schools and theatres (including BergenPAC). Ms. Keitel has developed & implemented curriculums for students studying music, musical theatre, playwriting and acting. A member of Actor’s Equity, Ms. Keitel has performed Off-Broadway and in numerous regional theatres including Writers Theatre of NJ, Luna Stage, Papermill Playhouse, Growing Stage, and NJPAC. In addition, she has served for over 20 years as the Assistant Director of Music at a local church. She is passionate about teaching, and exploring each day with students.

Hometown:
Dumont, NJ

I like working at the Academy because…
It will be my new home for music education!

Teaching philosophy:
“I want to always remain teachable, and in doing so I seek to endlessly respect the young minds I am entrusted to educate. The most brilliant musical ideas I’ve ever heard have come from the students. I continually strive to connect students to the material by encouraging hands-on action, clear instruction and leaving some wiggle room for their ideas. Within this structure, an environment of trust and respect can thrive.”

Fun fact:
I play LOTS of instruments. And sometimes, I’m a DJ on the weekends.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me…
On my bicycle (wearing a helmet of course!), reading, or trying to figure out DAW.

Ask me about:
My family and friends

Personal motto:
“I learn as much from my students as they learn from me.”

BIO:
Antonio Marciano graduated from William Paterson University with a degree in K-12 Health and Physical Education. My passion is to teach high quality physical education. I also coach high school football at Cliffside Park. I look forward to teaching your children.

Hometown:
Cliffside Park.

I like working at the Academy because:
Physical Education is a passion of mine, and I like watching students progress on their skills, academics, and faith.

Teaching Philosophy:
Physical Education is important because it provides physical fitness, skill development, self-discipline, sets goals for ourselves, and it improves student’s judgements. Physical Education also benefits children by teaching them motor skills. Physical Education is important because what the students learn in the classroom, they can use the skills outside of
school and stay active.

Fun Fact:
If I weren’t a physical education teacher, I would be working for sports radio.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
Coaching sports or playing sports with my friends.

Ask me about:
The New York Giants or New York Rangers.

Personal Motto:
“Don’t be afraid of failure.”

Bio:
Tony Martin graduated with a BA in History and a Masters in Social Studies Education from Rutgers University-New Brunswick. He is the 8th Grade Homeroom Teacher as well as the Social Studies teacher for the Middle School. He is happy to call Dumont, New Jersey home.

Hometown:
Kollam, Kerala, India

I like working at the Academy because…
I enjoy the camaraderie and the team spirit that is part of the Mount Carmel way of life.

Teaching Philosophy:
History isn’t about memorizing dates, History is about having fun while learning about the past and thinking of the future.

Fun Fact:
I like to play on my Wii. I usually play the Wii sports.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me…
Walking through the mall.

Ask me about:
What my favorite candy is.

Personal Motto:
Keep Calm and Carry On .

Bio:
Veronica Mezieres graduated from the National Pedagogical Institute Sacred Heart – Monterrico in Lima, Peru. As per the World Education Services she holds the equivalent of a BA Degree in Foreign Language – Literature and the teaching thereof. She has 32 years of teaching experience working with students all ages and backgrounds. Her biggest accomplishment has been to run the Education and Testing Department of a Welfare to work Program for the city of New York. She has worked in the healthcare field for 7 years but is looking forward to teaching again.

Hometown:
Teaneck, NJ

I like working at the Academy because…
Catholic values are taught at all times.

Teaching philosophy:
Take the best of each method and make the class fun because engaged students learn easily.

Fun fact:
I am a Reiki Practitioner

When I’m not at the Academy, you’ll most likely find me:
Burning lavender candles or incense. I am very interested in Aromatherapy.

Ask me about:
My family and Peru

Personal motto:
Put your mind to it and you will achieve anything you want. Let the sky be the limit!

Bio:
Graduated from a terrific school system in a small town, and attended Pace University, NYC for both my BA in Psychology and MS in Educational Technology. Currently I live in Hudson County.

Hometown:
Upstate New York,

I like working at the Academy because…
…of the values that are instilled in the students. Additionally enjoyable is that several co-workers are Yankee fans like my family.

Teaching philosophy:
I believe in treating every child in the manner in which I want teachers to treat my own child, with respect and a sense of responsibility. I want them to enter the classroom with the mindset that you will work your hardest on everything you do.

Fun fact:
There are so many…I love Star Wars and ladybugs. I am a fun enthusiastic person, get to know me and I am sure we can come up with many stories together.

When I’m not at the Academy, you’ll most likely find me:
Spending time with my son. We love to travel, be outside and watch TV. I enjoy watching him grow and walk his own path. I am so blessed to be there for him and my husband.

Ask me about:
ME! I love to share my life and adventures, it is my belief you learn through shared experiences. Or ask me about my son, I love to talk about him.

Personal motto:
“A lot of people resist transition and therefore never allow themselves to enjoy who they are. Embrace the change, no matter what it is; once you do, you can learn about the new world you’re in and take advantage of it.” Nikki Giovanni