MONROE, CT — Stepney Elementary School will welcome six new teachers when the new school year begins on Wednesday. Below are profiles of each.
Jeanine Martin
Position: Special education teacher
Previous School District: Easton
Grew Up In: Stratford
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies with a concentration in sociology and psychology, Bachelor of Science in elementary/special education, Masters of Science in special education with a concentration in assistive technology, and a Masters of Education in curriculum and instruction
What do you like most about teaching?: Building relationships with students as well as seeing students make progress and growth in areas of struggle.
What are you most looking forward to in Monroe?: Building positive relationships with students, families and the community.
Ashley Lopez
Position: English as a second language teacher
Previous School District: Spackenkill Union Free School District in Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
Grew Up In: Fishkill, N.Y.
Education: SUNY New Paltz and The City College of New York
What do you like most about teaching?: I love teaching TESOL. My students diverse backgrounds bring such a rich culture to the classroom. I love being able to help guide them in their language learning journey.
What are you most looking forward to in Monroe?: I am looking forward to teaching for the rest of my career in Monroe.
Jessica Trombetta
Position: Kindergarten teacher
Previous School District: New Canaan Public Schools
Grew Up In: Shelton
Education: Bachelor’s degree in elementary education and Masters degree in curriculum and instruction from the University of Connecticut
What do you like most about teaching?: I really like the connections I build with my students and getting to know them and hopefully stay in touch with them as they grow older. I also really love seeing the world through the perspective of a kindergartner!
What are you most looking forward to in Monroe?: Becoming part of the MPS community! Everyone I have met so far has been so welcoming and supportive. I’m looking forward to connecting with colleagues, students and parents and having a great school year!
Mikayla Triscritti
Position: Special education
Previous School District: Ansonia
Grew Up In: Shelton
Education: Southern Connecticut State University
What do you like most about teaching?: Helping students gain new interests and achieve their goals.
What are you most looking forward to in Monroe?: Working with new students, staff and families.
Erin Sweeney
Position: Special education teacher
Previous School District: Trumbull Public Schools
Grew Up In: Greenwich
Education: Bachelors of science in special education Masters of science in education and literacy
What do you like most about teaching?: Watching students become confident in themselves
What are you most looking forward to in Monroe?: Learning what makes this such a special district that so many of the faculty and staff return and/or stay for so long
Madison Ventresca
Position: 4th Grade Teacher
Previous School District: Ridgefield Public Schools
Grew Up In: Newtown
Education: I went to Endicott College and received my undergraduate degree in elementary education and my Master’s in reading and literacy. I also graduated with my special education initial license.
What do you like most about teaching?: I love making a difference everyday and building a strong and happy community within my classroom and school.
What are you most looking forward to in Monroe?: I am looking forward to meeting new friends and creating a safe and supported classroom environment for my students.
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