Bio:
Charlotte Colón Álvarez earned a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Spanish Literature and a Master’s degree in Spanish Literature from Syracuse University. While in pursuit of her master’s, she taught beginner and intermediary Spanish courses to undergraduate students and culture immersion workshops at SU. Upon graduating, she relocated to New Jersey to pursue a Master’s degree in City and Regional Planning from the Bloustein School at Rutger’s University. She then accepted a fellowship at the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, where she held several positions in different business units as part of the manager training program and is a past President and Vice President of the Port Authority Hispanic Society. After several years at the Port Authority, she was recruited to join The Children’s Place corporate real estate services team. She decided to put her career on pause and devote her time to her toddler son and family in Puerto Rico. During this time with her son and family, she rekindled her love for teaching and passion for Spanish language.

Hometown:
San Juan, Puerto Rico

I like working at the Academy because…
I have the opportunity to teach my native language and culture in a faith-based institution.

Teaching philosophy:
My teaching philosophy is simple: to teach is to inspire. The students will inspire me, and – hopefully –, I will inspire them.

Fun fact:
I am a theater fan! I had the pleasure of performing a satirical monologue in a theater inside a historic cave in Jerusalem, Israel.

When I’m not at the Academy, you’ll most likely find me:
Outdoors with my husband and toddler son.

Ask me about:
Puerto Rico or any Spanish-speaking country!

Personal motto:
A quien madruga, Dios lo ayuda (the Spanish version of: the early bird gets the worm)

Bio:
Marissa Carbone Bednarek has a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree with a speciality in Communication Design from Kutztown University in Pennsylvania. After graduating she obtained a degree in Computer Graphics. For 20 years she ran her own design firm specializing in commercial package design and event planning. She is an award winning designer and illustrator. After her retirement, her passion for children led her to teacher art to elementary students. She also has extensive experience in the area of set design, prop making and costume design for the theater.

Teaching philosophy:
I believe each child has the potential for greatness, I always tell my students God never shouts his mission for you, he simply whispers it. I see my role as a teacher is to
make my students passionate about learning, embrace their unique abilities and celebrate their successes and most of all help them to “Hear” their mission.

Hometown:
North Haledon, NJ

I like working at the Academy because . . .
It is simply “the best” in Catholic education. From the leadership to the teachers and staff… it is the example all schools should strive for. The students are bright and engaged, I feel blessed to work here.

Fun Fact:
I have three children all in Catholic school, I have a huge chocolate lab named Bailey, I used to be a competitive figure skater, I am a voracious reader, I love to cook and garden, I decorate my home for every holiday of the year. I am extremely creative and I love golf, football, baseball and country music.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me…
Taking care of my family, in my garden, on a golf course, traveling, in my art studio, or reading on my front porch swing.

Ask me about:
My kids, amazing! If you ever need something I probably have it in my house and I know exactly where it is.

Personal Motto:
Never give up, hard work pays off!

Maureen Bennett, aka Maureen O’Connor, has a BFA in Fine Arts/Communication Design and a BA in Art History from SUNY Buffalo; Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa.  She has also studied at the Arts Students League in NYC.

For many years Maureen was an art director, creative director and graphic designer in print, TV and Internet industries. She has a wide variety of experience with non-profit and cultural institutions, corporate, film, music, publishing, health, retail, and direct mail. Clients include: NBC, Citibank, Rounder Records, Unicef, Winterthur Museum, Salvador Dali Museum, Mercy Center Bronx, Barnes & Noble, ABM Industries, Lookalike Productions, Lord & Taylor, Fortunoff, Talbots and Bloomingdales.

For the past 5 years Maureen has been developing her visual arts in mediums of painting, drawing, mixed media, collage and photography.  She recently completed an Artist Grant and Residency at Vermont Studio Center.  In May 2011 she had her first solo show, “Transcendent Faces”, at Borghi Fine Art Gallery and, in June 2015, was accepted into a group show at OnSite: Brooklyn Gallery.

Maureen created the global traveling art project, Peace by Piece. Inspired after 9/11, the project continues to involve thousands of participants creating canvases and writings of personal statements about peace around the US and the world. She has been awarded 6 grants from the Annenberg Foundation: Center for Arts Education New York , the Bronx Council on the Arts, and the Northern Valley Educational Foundation.  As a teaching artist and creative consultant at Mercy Center in the South Bronx, NYC, for over 20 years, she was the recipient of the Circle of Mercy Award in 2008.

Maureen was the Cultural Arts Director of the Demarest Public Schools (700+ students) for 12 years, responsible for all programs curriculum-based in art, theatre, dance, science, language arts, math and history.

Hometown:
Merrick, New York and Breezy Point, New York

I like working at the Academy because…
I feel accepted, encouraged and inspired by many that I’ve met. I love the possibility of expanding the creative horizons of the Academy and all the students.

Fun fact:
I am the “psychologically-sound” middle of 9 children.

Ask me about:
The day a black bear walked past my studio door.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
In my studio … or in the woods.

When I’m not making something with my hands, you’ll most likely find me:
Day dreaming about making creating something totally ORIGINAL!

Personal motto:
“Be the change you wish to see in the world.” Mahatma Gandhi

Bio:
Marge Brennan has been teaching at the Academy of Our Lady of Mount Carmel for over 35 years. Originally from New York City she raised her family in Bergenfield and currently lives in Norwood, but as she likes to say she will always be a New Yorker!

Hometown:
New York, New York

Teaching Philosophy:
Every child’s first experience in school should be in a warm positive environment, and that’s what I strive to create everyday.

Fun Fact:
I taught Mr. Bruno and all his siblings!

When I’m not a the classroom, you’ll most likely find me…
Teaching Irish set dancing and Ceili dancing.

Ask me about:
My Irish heritage.

Personal Motto:
Let go and let God.

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:
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 Farfan-Ross earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in the field of Psychology from Kean University. After several years working in the corporate world she decided to change careers. Stephanie refused to ignore her instinctual desire for teaching and proceeded to earn a Masters Degree in Teaching and Education from Saint Peter’s University. Stephanie also serves as an assistant coach for the swim team at Memorial High School in West New York, NJ. She works well with students of all age levels and likes to promote a learning environment that is interactive and fun for all her students.

Hometown:
Weehawken, New Jersey

I like working at the Academy because…
I get to be a part of providing Spanish instruction in a traditional faith based education program.

Teaching philosophy:
I view my classroom as a community, and each student as an important member of the community. I strive to foster this idea in order to create a safe environment where students feel supported and encourage to be their best selves. I want my students to know that I am someone who cares about them. I strive to adopt my teaching in various ways so that I can assure I am meeting the needs of each individual student. I’m a firm believer in experimental education and real world application of curriculum. Additionally, through fostering a community of learners where all students show empathy and consideration for one another, the environment of the classroom is taken to another level of positivity and productiveness.

Fun fact:
I love sports! I’m a season ticket holder for the Baltimore Ravens!

When I’m not at the Academy, you’ll most likely find me:
Somewhere exploring NJ with my family, at a sporting event or working on my computer.

Ask me about:
My dog Caiy, she was a rescued dog and wouldn’t imagine our lives without her. My daughter Rachel Grace, I’m a first time mom and love sharing pictures of my baby.

Personal motto:
“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” – Aristotle and “You can never be overdressed or over-educated.” – Oscar Wilde

Bio: 
Louise L. Farley left the corporate world for education and graduated with her BA in Psychology from Felician College in 1995. When she was awarded the “Who’s Who Among Universities and Colleges” Recognition. In 2005 she received her teaching certification from William Paterson University. She has been assisting or teaching in Catholic Schools for over 13 years.

Hometown: 
Rutherford, NJ

I like working at the Academy because…
It is filled with high energy and school spirit — it is a great community of friends and family, it is in a great location and has great food!

Teaching philosophy:
I believe that teaching and learning are a continuous lifelong dance.  As much as I love teaching, I also love learning.  I believe that teaching should be exciting, positive and motivating and that students learn best when they feel comfortable and are encouraged to be active participants within that environment.  Students learn as much from each other as they do from me.  I also believe that there is nothing better than to be able to teach students what our Catholic faith teaches me every day — the way of Jesus.

Fun Fact: 
Mrs. Farley and Mrs. Clifford are neighbors who share a backyard gate.

When I’m not in the classroom you will find me:
At a ball field.

Ask me about:
My chili.

My personal motto:
If you’re not here, you’re absent!

Bio:
Justin Fernandez, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Class of ’07, graduated with a bachelor of arts in English Literature with a minor in Theology from Providence College. He is the parish Youth Minister and the Academy’s Middle School Religion Teacher where he is able to help guide the young community of Our Lady of Mount Carmel along the path of spiritual formation.

Hometown:
Teaneck, New Jersey.

I like working at the Academy because…
As an alumnus, I am able to pass on what I have learned to the next generation of students and graduates.

Teaching Philosophy:
All humans are inquisitive and curious by nature. Therefore, education is a process of searching. A question is asked and, together, both student and teacher search for the answer.

Fun Fact:
I love listening to and writing music. I play guitar and have dabbled with other instruments including the drums, piano, and mandolin.

Ask me about:
Tolkien…or Star Wars…or both!

Personal Motto:
“There is nothing like looking, if you want to find something. You certainly usually find something, if you look, but it is not always quite the something you were after.” –Thorin Oakenshield, the Hobbit

Bio:
Kim Goldberg graduated with B.A in Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. She is finishing her Masters degree online at Boise State University in Educational Technology with a certificate in School Technology Coordination. Kim has been teaching both students and teachers technology for over 18 years within the Archdiocese of Newark schools. She is the technology integrator and facilitator for staff and students at the Academy.

Hometown:
Commack, New York

I like working at the Academy because…
This is my home away from home, where everyone is welcome and supported.

Teaching philosophy: 
To challenge and motivate students to explore, discover, and learn about new worlds through the use of technology.

Fun Fact:
Every time I watch the Yankees in the World Series, they lose. I am not kidding!

Ask me about:
The latest technology gadgets – I am a true tech geek.

When I am not in the classroom you’ll most likely find me…
In my car taking my youngest daughter, Olivia to dance competition practice or gymnastics.

Personal Motto:
“Never let your fear decide your future.”

Bio:
Barbara Izzard received her B.A. from Brooklyn College and her two Masters Degrees from Long Island University.  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 was the Math Coordinator for the Bergen County Archdiocese of Newark 6th grade math-mapping curriculum project.

Hometown:
Brooklyn 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:
My daughter, Annie

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:
Stephanie Liriano graduated with an Associates Degree from St. Petersburg College and a Bachelors of Science Degree in Education  from Dominican College.   She is the grade one teacher as well as the cheerleading coach.

Hometown:
Bergenfield, New Jersey

I like working at the Academy because…
I love to work with  the students and watched them grow and learn while having a good time.

Teaching philosophy:
Make learning fun and enjoyable!

Fun fact:  
I once hit a homerun in High School, out of the park. I also love the beach!

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
At a baseball field.

Ask me about:
My children, two of which are current Mount Carmel Warriors!

Personal motto:
Always try your best and never give up!

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:
Tyler Solan graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Physical Education & Global Fitness and Wellness from Kean University. He is also certified in several types of physical fitness as well as health education, and nutrition. He was a strength and conditioning coach for several professional athletes as well as a fitness coach for many celebrities you see on television today. He competes yearly in many fitness competitions and loves donating to charities. He is a big supporter of Special Olympics and loves creating new ways to allow athletes to compete at the highest level possible.

Hometown:
North Bergen, New Jersey

I like working at the Academy because…
I love to witness the students’ enthusiasm towards their academics as well as their faith.

Teaching philosophy:
Quality physical education programs provide learning experiences for children that meet the developmental needs of students, which help improve their mental alertness, academic performance, readiness to learn and enthusiasm for learning.

Fun fact: 
I am hungry 99% of the day.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
At the gym!

Ask me about:
My Dog Jeter

Personal motto:
“Life is 10% what happens to you, and 90% how you respond to it.” – Lou Hotly

Bio:
Carissa Murray graduated from Kutztown University where she majored in Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology. After substitute teaching she found that teaching, in early childhood was her calling. She went back to get her master’s in special education at Grand Canyon University. Currently, she is enrolled at William Paterson getting her certification in Early Childhood.

Hometown:
Little Ferry, NJ

I like working at the Academy because…
While interviewing at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, I felt the warm energy of the staff and students’.

Teaching philosophy:
“I believe that all children have a different way of learning. It is my job, as an educator, to find which ways work for my students to help them succeed.”

Fun fact:
I love traveling! My goal is to go to every state.

When I’m not in the classroom, you’ll most likely find me:
Outside! No matter the season, I enjoy many outdoor activities. I love snowboarding, ice-skating, hiking, and surfing.

Ask me about:
Food! I love to eat and I love to try new things.

Personal motto:
“I feel that every student is unique. Why try and fit in when you were born to stand out.”

Bio:
Alexa Santiesteban-Zougras is a Cuban-American raised between Union City, NJ and Miami Fl. Alexa got her bachelor’s in Western Connecticut State and Florida Atlantic University in English with a focus on Writing. Her teaching journey has taken her from Miami, Fl to Brooklyn, NY and back to her hometown state of NJ. She gained her Master’s in the Teaching of English from Teachers College, Columbia University. Alexa loves to teach through the the philosophy of Aesthetic Education and loves teaching novels that exposes global issues.

Hometown:
Hillsdale, NJ

I like working at the Academy because…
I grew up going to Catholic School, and it gave me the pillars of what I measure my own life with. I wanted to continue to give those same essential foundations of faith and academics to future students, as to my own son.

Teaching Philosophy:
I believe in order to teach, you’ve got to be to constantly willing to learn. Teaching and learning is an academic and aesthetic movement. I enjoy learning with my students, we are always in flux and it is truly one of my greatest joys.

Fun Fact:
My husband is Greek Orthodox Priest and I have an obsession with owls.

When I’m not working, you’ll most likely find:
In my parish, caring for my son, cooking, or walking my dogs.

Ask me about:
My travels.

Professional Motto:
Reflection and Forgiveness can be challenging to our path to personal growth; yet, they are the keys to a well lived life. If we give our time to others, we’ll most likely find those two concepts easier to achieve and essentially try to be worthy of our Lord and Savior.

Bio: Barbara Verdonck has been involved in Catholic education for over 30 years. She studied Elementary Education and received her Master’s Degree in Psychology from the University of the Rockies. She has taught various levels of math ranging from PK4 through Grade 12, as well as Engineering I and II. She has served on various committees such as: Middle States Coordinator, Math Coordinator/Department Head, and Yearbook moderator. She also worked two years as a high school admissions director.

Hometown: Hasbrouck Heights, NJ

I like working at the Academy because…everyone is friendly and respects each other.

Teaching Philosophy: If students are engaged, they will love to learn. I believe in challenging my students…..encouraging them to take risks and learn from their successes and their mistakes. I believe in a hands-on, real-life approach to learning. I believe instilling the love for learning is an integral part of my profession.

Fun Facts..I am a Clemson Tiger football fan (well really the Clemson Marching Band fan)!

When I’m not in the classroom you will find me…. In the garden or reading a book.

Ask me about ….My family

My personal motto….. Keep believing!