Panther Press

As we close the chapter on the 2024–2025 school year, I want to take a moment to shine a bright and heartfelt spotlight on someone who has been the steady heartbeat of our school for over three decades: Brian Williams, our extraordinary Community Coordinator and Panther of the Year.

Brian is not just a member of our team—he is the soul of our school. For more than 30 years, he has shown up every single day with a calm spirit, a kind word, and a heart full of compassion. He knows every student by name, every staff member’s story, and every parent’s hopes and concerns. His presence is a source of comfort, his positivity is contagious, and his unwavering support is the foundation upon which so many of us lean.

Brian is the person everyone turns to—not because he has to be, but because he chooses to be. He listens without judgment, helps without hesitation, and leads without needing recognition. He embodies every character trait we strive to instill in our students: empathy, resilience, integrity, and joy.

To say that Brian has made a difference is an understatement. He has shaped lives, built bridges, and created a culture of belonging that defines who we are as a school. His legacy is not just in the years he has served, but in the countless lives he has touched.

So today, on the final day of this school year, I invite each of you to reflect on what it means to be like Brian. Let us carry his example forward—in how we treat one another, how we show up for our students, and how we build our community with love and intention.

Brian, thank you for being our guiding light, our steady hand, and our Panther of the Year. You are deeply appreciated and endlessly admired.

As we bring this school year to a close, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to each and every one of you. It has been a year filled with challenges, growth, and countless moments of inspiration—and through it all, your dedication and compassion have shone brightly.

Our jobs require a rare blend of intellect, creativity, patience, and heart. You bring all of that and more to your work each day. Your innovative spirit and deep commitment to our students and their families have made a lasting impact, and I am so proud of what we have accomplished together.

To those of you heading into a well-earned summer break: I hope you take this time to rest deeply and recharge fully. You have given so much of yourselves this year—now it’s time to care for yourselves with the same generosity and intention.

To our colleagues who have chosen to work 683: thank you for your continued passion and energy. I’m genuinely looking forward to a summer of learning, connection, and creativity.

Thank you for being the heart and soul of our school community. I am endlessly grateful for your brilliance, your care, and your unwavering belief in what’s possible for every student. Wishing you all a safe, joyful, and restorative summer.

Courtney and the admin team

July 1- orientation, all staff report to Gotham (561 Grand Ave, Brooklyn, 11238)

July 2-orientation/room set up at assigned sites

July 3- first day, students

July 4- OFF

Ms. Duran is such an important part of our school community. She builds long lasting and meaningful relationships with students and parents, some of which aren’t even her students. Ms. Duran makes sure every student is taken care of and happy. She comes to every school event and goes the extra mile to give our students new and meaningful experiences.

Anonymous

Ashley builds meaningful connections with each of her students and consistently treats them with kindness and respect. She anticipates their individual needs, whether academic, emotional, or behavioral, and creates a classroom environment where every student feels seen and supported. Her calm, encouraging presence helps students build confidence and take pride in their progress, and she always takes time to celebrate their efforts and growth.

Anonymous

Ms. Ashley is a true example of professionalism. She is a kind and compassionate paraprofessional who cares about her students. She works hard to make sure her students complete their work to the best of their abilities. Thank you!

Anonymous

Saskia brings a quiet strength and steady presence to her classroom. She approaches her work with thoughtfulness and consistency, creating a calm and predictable environment that helps students feel secure. Her attention to detail and follow-through ensures that routines run smoothly, and her reliable nature makes her a grounding force for all her students.

Anonymous

Kayla consistently goes above and beyond to solve problems and support her students. She approaches challenges with creativity and persistence, often thinking outside the box to find solutions that meet individual needs. Whether it’s adapting materials, adjusting a routine, or collaborating with colleagues, Kayla is proactive, resourceful, and deeply committed to helping every student succeed.

Anonymous

I want to thank our trip master J Perez, for continuing to be the steadfast and hard working person that she has always been. From working on numerous projects with her, one thing I can claim is this. If you ask her to get a task done, it gets done. I’ve enjoyed working with you throughout the years, and I appreciate you dearly.

Darnell Rogers

Dania has a deep understanding of her students and consistently treats them with patience and respect, even on their most challenging days. Her calm, compassionate approach helps students feel safe and valued, and she knows just how to support them in a way that meets their individual needs. All the students in her class love working with her, and for some, she’s the only person they’re willing to work with at all during art. Her presence makes those moments possible!

Anonymous

Ms. Spruill’s many years of experience have given her the skills to support students across all levels with confidence and care. She’s thoughtful and consistent about making sure students know what they need to do to complete their work, and she holds them accountable for behavior, respect, and participation in a calm, clear way. Sometimes, all it takes is a single look—and her students get right back on track with a smile, because they know she means business, but she’s always on their side.

Anonymous

Michelle Williams brings structure, consistency, and heart to everything she does. She sets clear expectations and follows through, creating a classroom environment where students know what’s expected and feel supported every step of the way. Her calm, no-nonsense style is matched with genuine care—and her students absolutely love working with her because they know she truly wants the best for them.

Anonymous

Ms. Sharon is always so kind and patient! She works hard to make every day special for all of the students and staff at Flatbush Townhall!

Angela Chachere

Shout out to Ms. Jen, from beginning to end, you have been a positive experience for me. I want to thank you for being a ray of sunshine, and sharing that light with everyone in Y07, time and time again. You’re a wonderful addition to P373K, and I want to thank you for that. :)

Darnell Rogers

It was an amazing year working with them we worked together to keep the students safe and engaging with them in learning and having fun .

Fahima Begum

The classroom family that we built has been unmatched. The support, kind words, and pep talks have made a huge difference over the years. I am always learning from you both and I am a better person because of you two. I love you both so much and we are forever family.

Cailin Schiller

To My x05 co-workers . This has been a amazing year working with you . I would like to thank you for all you support and understanding thought out this school year. The love and support you have for are students are not like any I have encountered before. Your teaching skills has shown me how much you care about our students. Thank you for your passion, patience, and guidance. Your positive impact will stay with me for a life time.

Ms. Battee

Hey guys thanks so much for helping us with the students in the morning and throughout the day. thanks for that extra helping hand. Its truly appreciated.

Ms. Battee

Mrs. Martell . I appreciate your work ethic and the way you always go above and beyond. Your support and willingness to help staff and students makes works so much easier. See you at 6:00

Ms Battee

I would like to express my gratitude for your leadership and dedication to 373k . I do understand the huge responsibility you have as leaders. But at the end of the day. I appreciate your understanding of family, staff and our well - being. Thank you I truly appreciated your kindness and support.

Renee Battee

Thank you so much for your support this year . I appreciated your help when I needed a backup during bussing thank you. You never said no.

Renee Battee

Thank You for keeping me posted . I appreciate your concern.

Ms. Battee

Always helping and caring

Naudia Barrett

Ms. Welcome always went out her way to show her appreciation to others ( teachers, paras, etc) who had an impact on the students in her class this school year.

Ms. Cromwell

Shout to Mr. Sam for keeping staff and students uplifted daily.

Ms. Cromwell

Mr. Mohammad is here every day to support our students and guide them in the right direction. He generously shares his experience and knowledge, and he is always willing to assist and lend a hand when he's needed.

Ms. Chachere

Mr. Be manages the Flatbush Team with proficiency and consideration for all the staff and students. He is a patient and supportive team leader. He is a kind and dedicated teacher, who is always willing to give students the attention and encouragement they need to do their best.

Angela Chachere

Just wanted to give a heartfelt shoutout to Mr. Zachary, Natoy, and Pierre for an awesome school year! It’s been such a pleasure working alongside all of you. The way we all came together to support our students this year really made a difference, and I’m truly thankful to have been part of such a strong and supportive team. Wishing you all a relaxing and well-deserved summer!

Ms. Tanner

They have been incredibly supportive during an especially trying period when Wayside was closed. Both ladies gave of their time, energy and resources to ensure that all the student's needs were met. The teamwork was amazing and I want them to know how much I appreciate them!

Ms. Hackett

Ms. Chachere

Ms. G is a quiet hero at Flatbush. She lights up every day at Flatbush with her beautiful smile. She's a dedicated and caring member of the Flatbush Team. Always available to provide emotional support and love to all of our students.

Ms. Chachere

Mr. Wilfred is an everyday champion! He is always there with words of encouragement for students and staff. A caring and dedicated professional, he always makes us laugh and reminds us not to take things too seriously.

Ms. Chachere

Mr. Ortega is a quiet hero at Flatbush Townhall. Conscientious and focused, Mr. Nery is a calming presence at Flatbush. He shares his knowledge and experience with students and offers support wherever it's needed.

Ms. Chachere

As a Teacher's Aide in training, Mr. Adam has been an important part of my classroom, and the Flatbush Townhall Team. He arrives early every day to provide assistance with the morning activities. He is a kind and caring team member, and he works diligently throughout the day to ensure that students receive the necessary supervision and support they need.

Angela Chachere