Panther Press

To all of our dedicated teachers who toiled—yes, toiled—to complete the NYSAA by our school deadline: your hard work has not gone unnoticed. While not every teacher has NYSAA students, the results impact every single one of our Advance ratings.

This amazing group went above and beyond, often stepping in to support colleagues and ensure every test was completed. Your teamwork, perseverance, and commitment to our students are truly inspiring.

Bravo, team! You’ve done an outstanding job! 🎉👏

Angela Chachere

Annette Natal

Benjamin Radin

Bilal Wrights

Bryant Mcintosh

Carmarie Aguayo

Chanel Bryant

Darnel Rogers

Fatimah Lawal

Gilyard Sughaiyar

Hillary Hackett

Jennifer Wambser

John Gordon

Jonathan Hunt

Josefina Perez

Kellyann Platt

Khalilah Summers

Mark Horosky

Mcedwin Charles

Melvin Rios

Michelle Pinkston

Miranda Griffith

Mya Dennie

Nicole Morgan

Nicole Hamilton

Quinn Zannoni

Raquel Martell

Shawn Ferreyra

Teresa Albury

Tiana Clarke

Veronica Perez

Hilarie has long been a tireless advocate and champion for our student artists, consistently going above and beyond to support and showcase their talents. Through her unwavering dedication, she has entered student work in countless district and city-wide competitions, opening doors and creating opportunities for young artists to shine.

Thanks to her incredible efforts, we are thrilled to share that—for the second year in a row—we have student artists whose work will be displayed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art: congratulations to Samin Islam and Isaiah Davis! In addition, Isaiah has been awarded a $1,000 arts scholarship, and Samin’s artwork will be featured on a Jumbotron in Times Square!

These remarkable achievements are a testament not only to the talent of our students but also to the passion, commitment, and hard work that Hilarie brings to her role every single day. We are so grateful for the inspiration she provides to our entire school community.

As we welcome Pride Month, we take this opportunity to celebrate the vibrant and resilient LGBTQIA+ community — including our colleagues, students, families, and friends. Pride is not only a time of celebration but also a powerful reminder of the ongoing journey toward equality, dignity, and inclusion for all.

In our school community, where we champion the unique strengths and needs of every student, it is especially important to recognize the intersectionality between LGBTQIA+ identities and disability. Many individuals live at this intersection, navigating multiple layers of identity and advocacy. Their voices and experiences enrich our understanding and deepen our commitment to equity.

We honor trailblazers like Aaron Rose Philip, a Black, transgender, disabled model who uses her platform to advocate for disability and LGBTQIA+ rights in the fashion industry. Andrew Gurza, a queer disability awareness consultant, has worked tirelessly to bring visibility to the lived experiences of disabled LGBTQIA+ individuals through his podcast Disability After Dark. And Chella Man, a Deaf, trans artist and activist, uses his art and storytelling to challenge norms and inspire inclusive education and representation.

These advocates — and many others — remind us that inclusion is not just about access, but about belonging. As educators and staff, we have the profound responsibility and privilege to create spaces where every student and colleague feels seen, respected, and valued for who they are.

Let us continue to foster a culture of respect, empathy, and celebration of diversity — not just during Pride Month, but every day. Together, we can ensure our school remains a place where all identities are honored and every voice is heard.

As we celebrate Caribbean American Heritage Month, we honor the rich cultural heritage, resilience, and contributions of Caribbean Americans — including our colleagues, students, families, and community members. This month is a time to reflect on the vibrant traditions, histories, and voices that have shaped our society and continue to enrich our school community.

In our work with students with special needs, we recognize the importance of embracing every identity and background. Caribbean Americans have long been at the forefront of movements for justice, equity, and inclusion — including in the realms of disability rights and educational equality.

Organizations like the Caribbean Equality Project have been instrumental in advocating for Afro- and Indo-Caribbean immigrants, including those with disabilities, through culturally responsive education, civic engagement, and healing-centered support.

These efforts remind us that true inclusion means ensuring every voice is heard and every person is valued — regardless of ability, background, or identity. As educators, we have the power to create spaces where all students and staff feel respected, supported, and empowered to thrive.

Let us continue to celebrate the diversity within our school and uplift the stories and contributions of Caribbean Americans. As we do so, may we reaffirm our commitment to building a community rooted in respect, equity, and belonging for all.

• At Gotham and Ellery, all pods will meet collaboratively to finalize 25-26 matriculation and class lists

• Teachers of graduates, reach out to families about prom (June 4 at Ellery) and graduation (June 18 at IS 318, 10 am)

• Any staff who are interested in learning about and possibly participating in a year-long, consultant-led mindfulness project, log onto an informational Zoom at 2:30 with Ms. Rattenbury:

Jun 2, 2025

02:30 PM

https://zoom.us/j/97309812933?pwd=mtXI8muhs8nyiOaeGybWeaFLOrPRzq.1

Meeting ID: 973 0981 2933

Passcode: 336831

It’s June—the sun is finally out, and we’re all feeling the fatigue that comes with the end of the school year.

That said, safety remains our top priority. No one wants to see a student get hurt or, heaven forbid, go missing. Please stay vigilant, especially during breakfast, lunch, and dismissal. These are high-traffic times when our attention matters most.

Engage with students. Avoid lining up along the walls or gathering in groups during supervision. I know there’s plenty to say about the latest team drama, but let’s save those conversations for times when we’re not responsible for student safety.

Please stay off your phones and keep your focus on the students. The last thing anyone wants is to miss something critical because of a text or a sports recap. Be present, be alert, and stay connected with what’s happening around you.

We already do a great job of this—let’s stay sharp and finish the year like champions.

🌟 A Standing Ovation for an Unforgettable Premiere! 🎬✨

To our phenomenal team of educators, creatives, and student stars—bravo on producing a truly extraordinary film that showcased the immense talents of our high school students with disabilities. You didn’t just make a movie—you created a masterpiece that gave our students the spotlight they so richly deserve.

From the first storyboard to the final scene, your dedication, creativity, and heart were evident in every frame. And what a celebration it was! Our red carpet premiere was nothing short of magical—an evening that honored not only our students, but also the staff and families who uplift and inspire them every day.

You’ve proven that our school is a powerhouse of creativity, inclusion, and joy. Thank you for reminding us all of the brilliance that shines when every voice is heard and every talent is celebrated.

Congrats to our lead creative team:

Nicole Hamilton

Kate Fenton

Andrew Chung

Raquell Martell

Arileyda Duran

Melvin Rios

Steven Salzgeber

BArry Wizoreck

Melissa Carlin

Jennifer Wambser

Here’s to more stories, more stars, and more unforgettable moments. 🌟🎥❤️

June 4- Prom

June 6- in person clerical day, so students

June 11- Awards ceremony

June 12- Senior Trip to Area 53

June 13- Field Day, Ellery

June 18- Graduation

June 26- last day of school

Dear 373K Staff,

Thank you all for your support in making this year’s 10th Annual Celebration of the Arts such a memorable and meaningful event.

From assisting in visual art classes to supervising students during the show, your efforts ensured the day ran smoothly and that our students were safe, engaged, and able to fully enjoy the celebration.

We’re especially grateful for your support of the Blue Moon Café, Hot Spoons, Friends & Frequency, and the X02 Docents during the show.

Special thanks to the X07 Bootcamp Boys, Mr. Rios, Mr. Quinn, Mr. Radin, Mr. Rogers, and Mr. Lucas, Ms. Desiree, V45, & V35 for helping prepare or clean-up the side cafeteria, and to Dr. Rochelle, Ms. Beache, Ms. Ashley, and Ms. Kayla for guiding the docents throughout the event.

Thanks to Ms. Iranis, Ms. Lizette, Mr. Slater, and Ms. Sharlene for your help during the event.

A big shout-out to our amazing Cookshop team—Ms. Renee, Ms. Jeannette, Ms. Johnson, Ms. Lola, and Ms. K—for keeping everything running deliciously.

Thank you to Ms. Rachel, Ms. Raisa, and Ms. Meaghan for your continued support in art throughout the year.

A heartfelt thank you to the entire Structured Teaching Cohort—students, staff, and RSPs—for helping transition students to their classrooms for breakfast so we could set up the show the night before. We truly appreciate your flexibility and support throughout the event.

And an extra-special thank you to our incredible admin team—Courtney, Kayden, Jeannine, Tenia, and Pierce—for not only backing this annual culminating event, but for your unwavering support of the arts in our school community.

This celebration would not have been possible without each and every one of you.

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

The Celebration of the Arts Committee

(Ms. Gilinson, Mr. Orza, Mr. Hunt, and Ms. Hamilton)

I had the privilege of attending the 2025 New Teacher Symposium with the force of nature that is Jen Wambser, and had a great time! Congratulations to all of our new teachers on successfully completing your first year. We're so glad you're part of our family!

Annette Natal

Jen Wambser

Tamila Dabestani

Tiana Clarke

Mya Dennie

Melissa Nieves

John Gordon

Joseph Basile help everyone in the classroom.

Alicia Mercado

This woman is a national treasure. She knows every student, always steps in to help, and is a de-escalation ninja. Her care and love for the students is always on display.

Mark Horosky

In celebration of summer and Pride and Caribbean heritage.