Panther Press

At BTC, great teaching starts with great understanding—and the SANDI assessment is a vital tool in that journey. SANDI helps us determine student skill levels, shape individualized lesson plans, and inform meaningful IEP goals. It’s the bedrock of effective, student-centered instruction for our neurodiverse learners.

We’re proud to recognize the following staff members who went above and beyond by completing their SANDI assessments ahead of the deadline:

🎉 Laurie Flick
🎉 Bilal Wrights
🎉 Raquel Martell
🎉 Mandy Larson
🎉 Donna Bean
🎉 Shawn Ferreyra
🎉 Ana Medrano
🎉 Rumana Haque

Your dedication to timely and thoughtful assessment ensures that every student receives the support they need to grow and thrive. Thank you for your commitment to excellence in teaching and for being champions of student success.

Let’s continue to celebrate and support one another as we build a learning environment rooted in data, compassion, and high expectations.

As we observe Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, we honor a time of reflection, renewal, and recommitment to our values. This sacred day invites us to pause, consider our actions, and strive to do better—for ourselves and for others.

In many ways, Yom Kippur aligns beautifully with our mission of serving students with special needs. It calls us to lead with compassion, humility, and a deep sense of responsibility. Just as the holiday encourages personal growth and forgiveness, our work fosters growth, understanding, and dignity in every student we support.

May this season bring you peace, clarity, and strength. G’mar Chatimah Tovah—may you be sealed for good in the year ahead.

This month, we proudly celebrate Hispanic Heritage—a time to honor the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities. At BTC, where many of our students come from homes with Hispanic heritage, this month is an opportunity to recognize and uplift voices that reflect both cultural pride and the power of neurodiversity.

One inspiring figure we highlight is Sofía Jirau, a Puerto Rican model born with Down syndrome. Sofía made history as the first Victoria’s Secret model with Down syndrome, breaking barriers in the fashion industry and advocating for greater visibility and inclusion. Through her work, she empowers others with disabilities to pursue their dreams and embrace their identities with pride.

We also remember Frida Kahlo, the iconic Mexican painter whose life and art were shaped by her experiences with disability. After surviving polio and a traumatic accident, Frida used her art to express pain, resilience, and identity. Her legacy continues to inspire artists and advocates around the world.

We encourage all staff to take time this month to celebrate with students, engage in conversations about heritage and identity, and explore the stories of Hispanic individuals who have made a difference—especially those who champion inclusion and advocacy for people with disabilities.

Let’s make this month a celebration of culture, courage, and community.

September 29- Extended Day- look for an email later today

September 29-30- Ellery Picture Day

Please remember that out Ellery and Gotham sites no longer have unit coordinators who help with schedules and coverage. As a result of this, your UFT representative has reminded me that staff should refrain from approaching anyone other than your supervising administrator with requests.

Thank you.

Your supervising AP will contact you soon to set up an Initial Planning Conference prior to observations.

In the meantime, please complete this survey- we'll use it to guide conversations.

Ms. Tamila

A powerful statement, Bad Bunny's NUEVAYol celebrates Latin culture in New York, and pays tribute to the Puerto Rican diaspora. It also acknowledges the positive contributions of immigrants.