High School

Joye Rice is Atmosphere's Special Projects Operations Manager. Ms. Rice was born and raised in New York City. She is an advocate for school choice and supports educational equity. In previous roles, Ms. Rice was an Operations Manager at Harlem Village Academies and the Founding Family Impact Coordinator at Democracy Prep Public Schools. Ms. Rice earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from The College of New Rochelle and is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership. She enjoys watching anime and Marvel movies with her teenaged son. She is excited to be part of the Atmosphere team!

Audrey Argandona-Lemus is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Operations Manager. Ms. Lemus grew up in the South Bronx and California. She is a licensed social worker and emergency medicine physician assistant who previously worked in operations and college and career counseling at Inwood Academy located in upper Manhattan for over five years. Ms. Lemus is not only passionate about academics, but also, mental, social emotional, and physical health.

Joseph Filpo is Atmosphere's 10th & 11th Grade Operations Manager. Mr. Filpo is from Inwood and has over a decade of experience in public schools and Head Start. Mr. Filpo has held many roles across many schools. Prior to joining Atmosphere he was the Operations Manager at Rosalyn Yalow Charter School where he managed operational processes and school systems. Mr. Filpo has a passion for the betterment of students and has made it a point to give back to the same community that served him as a child.

Moddestine Cobbs is Atmosphere's Community Associate. She graduated with a Master's in Psychology from Southern New Hampshire University. Moddestine brings 7+ years of experience working in the education system and enjoys helping families connect to an excellent educational environment for their children. During Moddestine's downtime, she enjoys watching movies and spending quality time with her son.

Jeralyn Guadalamar is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Operations Associate. Ms. Guadalamar grew up in Inwood, Manhattan, and is pursuing Project Management. Ms. Guadalamar enjoys making content and helping others. Growing up in Inwood has made her passionate about building relationships and guiding her community and young adults through their journey. Ms. Guadalamar is excited to bring her previous experience at a charter school not only as a staff there but also as a student here to Atmosphere.

Julio Ortiz is Atmosphere’s 10th Grade Operations Associate. Julio's journey began in the South Bronx but was enriched by his time on the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. As the eldest of nine siblings, he set an example by becoming the first in his family to earn a high school diploma. After graduating from Herbert H. Lehman High School, Julio chose to serve his country, joining the United States Marine Corps, where he proudly achieved the rank of Sergeant of Marines during his eight-year service. Julio's commitment to making a difference extends beyond his military service. He has dedicated his time to coaching youth sports and serving as a mentor. Upon returning from military service, Julio transitioned into a career focused on helping homeless individuals find housing and rebuild their lives. However, his passion for guiding young people on their path and positively impacting the community led him to the Charter school system, where he now proudly serves. Julio is excited to be part of the Atmosphere family, where he continues to make a meaningful impact on the leaders of tomorrow.

Katie Thayer is an Atmosphere Data Associate. Katie most recently worked for a non-profit that manages a local universal preschool program in North Carolina as their outreach and communications coordinator. Katie has a Human Development and Family Studies degree from the University of North Carolina. She will graduate with a master's in Education Policy from Teachers College in May 2023. Though her career has been primarily in early childhood education, Katie has worked with middle and high school students as a literacy tutor and a volunteer baseball coach. She's excited to join the data team and support students' learning and success.

Charmaine Gentles is Atmosphere's Data Associate. Charmaine was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, and her experiences going through the NYC public school system from K to college influenced her passion and interest in educational equity, research, and advocacy. Charmaine’s past academic and professional experiences include conducting extensive research on the school-to-prison pipeline, restorative justice measures, affirmative action, admission exam culture, and opportunity gaps within education. Charmaine holds an M.P.A. in Public/Non-Profit Management and Policy from NYU Wagner (with a concentration in Advocacy and Political Action) and a B.A. in Political Science from The City College of New York (CUNY).

Osiris Stephen is Atmosphere's Safety and Technology Manager. Previously, Mr. Stephen held the position of Director or Operations at Dr. Richard Izquierdo Charter School, where he managed a team of 10, including Sr. Operations Managers, Operations Associates and School Aides. He worked closely with the Culture Team to provide added support. He holds a Masters of Business Administration in Finance from Long Island University, Brooklyn Campus, and a Bachelor of Arts from Hofstra University. He is also an Advocate for children with Epilepsy and Autism. Osiris loves working with kids and coached North Riverdale Little League.

Christian Fabian is Atmosphere’s 9th Grade Culture Assistant. He has an Associate's degree in Applied Science in Business Administration from Morrisville State College. While Christian participated in college football and club soccer, his true passion lies in mathematics. Christian's coaching experience spans six years, with five spent coaching varsity football and lacrosse at Cardinal Hayes High School. Over the past decade, he has dedicated his career to education and youth development, and he's enthusiastic about shaping new experiences, lasting memories, and a strong foundation for success. Here's a fun fact: Christian often finds himself on YouTube or engrossed in anime in his free time.  

Alysia James is Atmosphere's 10th Grade Culture Associate. Alysia holds a Bachelor's in Communication and Media Studies from Fordham University. She also has Youth Mental Health First Aid certifications and Tiered Restorative Practices Training. Before joining Atmosphere, she served as a Guidance Counselor and later a Dean of Scholars and Families at a middle school in Westchester. Alysia is devoted to providing scholars with guidance, social-emotional support, and the academic prowess necessary for successful learning and solid individual character development.

Stacey Howard is Atmosphere's 11th Grade Culture Associate. Stacey has been in education for 18 years, holding various roles such as special education high school teacher, elementary school teacher, and dean of culture/discipline. Stacey has a M.S. in Childhood Education and an M.A. in Educational Leadership. Stacey wholeheartedly believes in cultivating the minds of young people so that they can be the best they can be in life and become world-class citizens.

Brittany Webb is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Culture Associate. She brings a wealth of experience to her role, transitioning from a successful professional basketball career to education. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice from Seton Hall University, she furthered her education with a Master's in Sports Administration. Brittany spent seven years as an elementary and high school physical education teacher before transitioning into leadership roles. With over a decade of experience, she is dedicated to maximizing student learning, fostering a positive student culture, and creating a structured, supportive educational environment. Brittany is excited about the upcoming school year and looks forward to collaborative efforts with students and parents.

Jonathan Berenguer is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Culture Associate. He graduated from Lehman College with a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science. He also holds certificates in Social Justice Reform and Entrepreneurship. Jonathan brings 15+ years of experience working with high school students. He's worked as an academic/college counselor, SEL instructor, and director of grant-sponsored programs. Having been born and raised in the Bronx, Jonathan has led and organized multiple annual empowerment seminars to inspire Bronx students to unlock their potential and strive for greatness.

Steven Gerleit is Atmosphere's 10th Grade Culture Associate. He is pleased to join the new high school team. He brings with him many years of experience as a teacher in many different middle school and high school settings. Mr. Gerleit is happy to bring positivity, professionalism, encouragement, support, and a spirit of collaboration to everyone in the Atmosphere Academy community and to help scholars achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

Tiffany Mitchell is Atmosphere's 10th Grade School Counselor. She holds a Master of Science in School Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science. Before working at Atmosphere Academy, she served as a Crisis Management Paraprofessional in the Department of Education for 11+ years. Tiffany is thrilled to bring her experiences to Atmosphere and looks to develop trust and create a sense of transparency and shared purpose with students, parents, and staff.

Nikki Pelose is Atmosphere's Career Coordinator. She joined Atmosphere with over 15 years of Teaching experience in English Language Arts and Literacy. Ms. Pelose earned her Master's Degree from St, John's University with a major in Education and a minor in Psychology. In her spare time, Ms. Pelose enjoys reading, writing, ice skating, and listening to all genres of music. Ms. Pelose believes that an essential part of learning is growth and change.

Michael Roach is Atmosphere's 11th Grade School Counselor. Mr. Roach earned his Bachelor of Arts and Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Manhattan College, which is located in the surrounding neighborhood of Riverdale/Kingsbridge. Previously employed by the NYC Department of Education, Mr. Roach has gained experience and specialization while working with Special Education and ELL students around the Bronx. Invested in his craft, Mr. Roach believes that advocacy and support are essential to student growth, development and success.

Darryl Jenkins is Atmosphere's 9th Grade School Counselor. Previously, he worked with The Family Welcome Center at the NYC Department of Education. As an Enrollment Counselor, he assisted families in enrollment processes for grades K-12. He also served as an Academic Advisor for the Young Adult Borough Center at Herbert Lehman High School, where he counseled over-aged and under-credited students. He received his Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Master of School Counseling from Mercy College. He has a strong commitment to working with a diverse population of students.

Jason Silverstein is Atmosphere's 9th and 10th-grade Program Associate. Mr. Silverstein received a BS in Justice and Law Administration and a Master's in History from Western Connecticut State University. His career began in Higher Education, providing technical support, and grew to lead a Contact Center - Call Center, and Helpdesk. Promoted to Directory of Quality Assurance and then Executive Director and Interim Assistant Vice President for the Office of Student Assistance at Pace University. He took a career change and moved to San Jose, California to fulfill his lifelong dream of becoming a police officer. Jason spent several years as a San Jose Police Officer before returning to NYC and resuming a career path in education. He spent over a year as a K-6 teacher before transitioning to Atmosphere. Mr. Silverstein finds purpose in teaching the next generation and preparing them to realize their dreams and make the most of their opportunities.

Priscilla Rottier is Atmosphere's Programs Assistant. Born and raised in the Bronx, NY. Her experience as an N.Y.P.D. Law Enforcement Explorer had led to her passion for helping others. However, Priscilla's career path shifted when she became a mother. Priscilla loves to travel to exotic countries and has been to Egypt, Abu Dhabi, Thailand, China, Coast Rica, Nicaragua, Bahamas, Jamaica, Paris, and Italy. Her travels have inspired her creativity and broadened her view of the world.

Alex Berzofsky is Atmosphere's Programs Associate. He has a Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University. Before Atmosphere, he taught ELA for two years at Brooklyn Prospect Charter School. Before that, he was a partner at a Global Private Equity and Venture Capital firm for 20 years. Alex is excited to bring his business experience into the classroom.

Claryliz Peralta is Atmosphere's 10th Grade Science Teacher. Claryliz graduated from Columbia University with a Bachelor of Arts in Biology and subsequently acquired a Master's in Education from Relay Graduate School of Education. With a decade of teaching experience under her belt, she is incredibly excited to be a part of the Atmosphere team!

Mohammed Jalloh is Atmosphere's 10th grade Math teacher. Mohammed holds a BSc in Engineering Sciences from the College of Staten Island of the City University of New York and a Master's degree in Chemical Engineering from Columbia University in the City of New York. He furthered his education in the Nuclear and Environmental Engineering graduate program at Columbia University. Mohammed also worked as a Process Chemical Engineer for Linde/Praxair (formally Union Carbide Industrial Gases). Later, he worked at NYCDOE as a Certified High School Math teacher and taught (Algebra 1, Geometry, & Algebra 2 / Trigonometry}; Physics, Chemistry, and Living Environment. His passion is to expose and encourage students to take Math and Science courses to consider Engineering and Applied Science (STEM) careers.

Andrea Erde is Atmosphere's 9th-grade English Teacher. Andrea comes to Atmosphere with 25 years of teaching experience at the middle and high school levels. She lived and taught in Southern California for several years and in NYC and NJ. Andrea earned her Bachelor's Degree from Syracuse University and her Master's in English Education from NYU. She loves engaging students in lively discussions in the classroom and enjoys watching her students grow in their critical thinking, reading, and writing abilities. In her free time, Andrea loves traveling and spending time with her 10-year-old son and husband.

Ty Graves-Defrietas is Atmosphere’s HS English/Student Learning Teacher. With over two decades of educational experience spanning domestic and international settings, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the Atmosphere community. Ty’s academic journey includes a Doctoral degree in Executive Educational Leadership from Manhattanville College, a Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership from Bank Street College of Education, a Master of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education from Mercy University, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Ty is a passionate advocate for social justice and uses her classroom as a catalyst for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Beyond her educational pursuits, Ty finds inspiration in travel, viewing the world as a classroom of endless learning opportunities. Literature holds a special space in her heart, and she enjoys immersing herself in compelling books. Recently, she's embraced pickleball as a newfound passion, adding an extra layer of excitement to her life.

Steven Bufford is Atmosphere’s 9th-grade English Teacher. Steven was born and raised in Buffalo, NY. Steven moved to New York City after completing his undergrad at SUNY Buffalo, where he began his teaching career. After a few years of teaching, Mr. Bufford attended graduate school, eventually completing his Master's in Adolescent Special Education. He has been teaching since 2007 and is eager to share his experience and wealth of knowledge with Atmosphere's staff and students.

Roberto Gutierrez Parillo is Atmosphere’s 9/10/11th Grade Spanish Teacher. Roberto has taught most grades from K-12 to Graduate Students. Roberto uses a teaching method that derives from the 5 C's for 21st Century Language Acquisition, incorporating Communication, Culture, Comparison, Connection, and Communities in teaching Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing in the target language. Roberto looks forward to developing his student's desire to learn a foreign language and become an ambassador for Atmosphere Academy.

Daniel (Dan) Karan is Atmosphere's 11th Grade Social Studies Teacher. Before joining Atmosphere Academy, Dan served as the Special Education teacher for a 12th-grade Social Studies class, focusing on Government and Economics, for the past three years. Dan’s extensive background spans 30 years in NYC nonprofit housing and community development organizations. For over half of those years, he conducted comprehensive 3-hour classes for low-income tenants, covering the intricacies of owning and operating their buildings as limited equity housing cooperatives. Dan looks forward to sharing his knowledge and love for education with his students.

Ling Chen Kelley (刘凌尘) is Atmosphere’s 9/10/11th grade Mandarin Chinese teacher. With two decades of experience in teaching and administration at all levels, ranging from Montessori toddlers to post-graduate professionals in China and the United States and a dozen years of simultaneous translation experience, LC Kelley has been credited with three dozen professional translations and a dozen academic publications in Chinese history, art, international business, multiethnic studies, and swarm robotics. LC holds a BA from Bard College, with an MA and PhD ABD from Tsinghua University. Ling Chen encourages students to proactively engage the world with their classroom knowledge, becoming an international community asset.

Latanya Woodhouse is Atmosphere’s 10th and 11th Grade Spanish Teacher. Latanya has taught Spanish in Texas, The Philippines, Nigeria, and now New York. She has a B.A. in Spanish from the University of North Texas. She enjoys reading, playing tennis, and traveling the world in her free time.

Gina Calvi is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Living Environment Teacher. Gina recently graduated from Manhattanville College with her master's in Biology Education, Grades 5-12. This is her 2nd year teaching, and she is excited to positively impact all her students' lives, inside and outside the classroom! Gina loves creating solid relationships with her students and supporting them in reaching their life goals!

Adrianna Anderson is Atmosphere's High School Teaching Assistant. Adrianna has an enduring passion for learning that traces back to her declaration of becoming a virologist with the CDC in the fourth grade. However, a pivotal summer job at a daycare facility reshaped her career trajectory, igniting a lifelong dedication to education. Her journey led to Director roles at two prominent educational centers before she ventured out to establish Empire Academics Inc. Adrianna's vision for Empire Academics is to provide underserved children with transformative opportunities and experiences often lacking in their neighborhoods, fostering a community that celebrates academic excellence and compassion. Beyond her educational pursuits, she is an avid reader, prolific writer, passionate cook, and music enthusiast. Currently pursuing certification as a Special Education teacher, Adrianna remains committed to educational empowerment.

Lenny Perez is Atmosphere's 10th Grade Geometry Teacher. Lenny holds a Bachelor's and a Master of Science Degree in Mathematics and Education, both obtained from Lehman College. In addition, Lenny possesses a Biochemistry Degree from Hunter College, complemented by a minor in Physics and Mathematics. Lenny's professional journey includes 11 years as a School Coordinator in a public high school in NYC and two years as a high school math teacher within the public school system. This marks his fourth year as a math teacher in the Charter school system. Lenny firmly believes that math is the universal language of the universe and is dedicated to allowing all students to comprehend and master it.

Aaron Fishman is Atmosphere's 10th Grade Social Studies Teacher. Aaron brings a wealth of experience to his role. Over the years, he has taught various subjects, including HL/SL IB History 12, AP Macroeconomics, AP Microeconomics, Introduction to Economics (a course he developed), US History, World History, and Participation in Government. Aaron holds a Master's in teaching from St. Thomas Aquinas College and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from SUNY Buffalo. Beyond the classroom, Aaron is an accomplished Varsity Football Coach, specializing in coaching the Offensive and Defensive Line for the reigning NYS Class C Champions in upstate NY. His coaching expertise extends to Track and Field, basketball, and serving as a clock official. Whether in teaching or coaching, Aaron's unwavering message to his students is that hard work yields success!

Henrietta Ajaero is Atmosphere’s Academy High School Special Education Teacher. Henrietta serves as a Social Studies Integrated Co-Teacher and will provide Special Education Teacher Support Services (SETTS) at the high school. She has over two decades of classroom experience, professional development, and curriculum design across various disciplines. In this previous capacity, Henrietta was trained in Applied Behavior Analysis and was nominated as Teacher of the Year by the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship. Henrietta holds an MPA from Eastern Michigan University and an MSEd from the College of Saint Rose. As a mother of six children, she believes every family has the highest aspiration for their scholar. Henrietta is committed to working with families and their scholars to realize this aspiration.

Rahdaysha Cummings is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Special Education Associate Manager. Rahdaysha graduated and received her Bachelor's degree from the illustrious Clark Atlanta University, master's from Hunter College, and holds a leadership certification from the College of St. Rose. She has been a special education educator and leader for the past eight years and has served in many roles. Rahdaysha is passionate about ensuring equal and equitable education for all.

Stacy Reynolds is Atmosphere’s 9th-grade French Teacher. Stacy has taught French to folks of all ages and backgrounds, from 5-year-olds in immersion classes to adults preparing to live overseas. Stacy began her career as a high school teacher, bringing her passion for education to the classroom. Hailing from Chicago, her journey has led her to reside in diverse locations such as France, Belgium, Chile, Russia, and England. Currently, she is dedicated to furthering her expertise and is pursuing her second Master's in French Education at the University at Buffalo. Stacy possesses a remarkable linguistic repertoire, fluently speaking English, French, Spanish, German, and Russian. Her teaching style is characterized by pragmatism, where she employs various innovative methods to guide students toward achieving their language proficiency goals while preparing them for their challenging Regents exams.

Daniel Radzicki is Atmosphere's 10th Grade Social Studies. He has been a classroom teacher for over 25 years and has taught World History, US History, American Government, and Economics courses. Mr. Radzicki is a three-time presenter at the annual New York State Council for Social Studies, was involved with creating an economics textbook, and has helped develop the New York State Regents in World History. Mr. Radzicki sees history as the most important High School subject and looks forward to igniting that enthusiasm in his students.

Bonny Sahouin is Atmosphere's 10th Grade Chemistry and Earth Science Teacher. He has taught for 12 years all subjects in science from Chemistry to Living Environment, passing through Physics and Earth Science. After graduating with a master's in Electromechanical engineering, his love to make a difference in the lives of our youth pulled him into teaching. He then got his teaching certificate in Science with a focus in Chemistry after a second Master's in Education. Bonny Shihouin, a native of the Ivory Coast, has been living in the Bronx and trolling these neighborhoods for 30 years. Bonny works daily to impact the lives of our youth in these underserved communities he calls home.

Quinaya Smith is Atmosphere’s 9th Grade Biology teacher who teaches Living Environment. This is her 2nd year teaching; she is a former NYCTC partner teacher and current grad student at Pace University. Her main goals are to grow as an educator and improve her pedagogy. Ms. Smith cherishes her students like her own and always brings her bright personality everywhere she goes. She speaks in the 3rd person with a unique voice, is obsessed with Pokemon and animals, and loves to dance.

Sushma Vavilala is Atmosphere’s 11th Grade Chemistry teacher. With a strong background in education, she has previously worked in various school districts in Texas, showcasing her dedication to teaching. Having accumulated over five years of experience teaching high school chemistry, Sushma is deeply passionate about educating students and wholeheartedly committed to supporting them in their educational endeavors.

Jonathan Yuan is Atmosphere's 10th-grade English and World Language Teacher. A native of Los Angeles and Teach For America alumnus, Mr. Yuan earned his B.A. in Mass Communications at the University of California, Berkeley, and his Ed.M. in Learning and Teaching (Instructional Leadership) at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Previously, he taught English, Speech and Debate, Theatre Arts, and Algebra I at the Middle and High School levels in New York, Texas, and Japan. He brings a multidisciplinary experience into the classroom at Atmosphere to empower his scholars to realize their fullest potential.

Steven Rice is Atmosphere’s 10th-grade English Teacher. Steven has been passionately educating young minds for the past sixteen years. He's had the privilege of teaching a wide range of English Language Arts and Social Studies courses to middle school, high school, and college students across New York City. Steven holds a Bachelor's degree in English Literature and Language with a minor in pan-Africana Studies from SUNY Cortland and a Master's in English Literature and Language from LIU Brooklyn. In addition to his teaching roles, Steven also instructs at Manhattan College. Currently, he's pursuing his second Master's degree in Progressive Leadership at Bank Street College of Education, aiming to bring even more dynamism, positivity, and innovation to the field of education. Outside the classroom, you'll find Steven indulging in his love for reading and writing, particularly in the realms of poetry and spoken word. He's also a fan of dancing, traveling, sports, great movies, and exploring other world languages.

Kayla Scarborough is Atmosphere’s 9th Grade Pre AP World History Teacher. She earned a Master of Science in Teaching from Fordham University and a Master of School Administration from the College of Saint Rose. Over her extensive career, she has taught elementary, middle, and high school grades, focusing on the humanities. In her leadership experience, she has served as an instructional coach, administrator, and educational consultant. Kayla's commitment to educating the whole child is evident in her ability to build a strong classroom culture and differentiate to meet diverse learners' needs. Kayla is thrilled to return to her love of teaching and is excited to positively impact the educational experience of Atmosphere’s young people.

Brandon Coreale is Atmosphere's 10th Grade English Teacher. Brandon attended Texas A&M University (Corpus Christi), where he received a BA in English Literature and his MA in English - Rhetoric & Composition. Brandon began his teaching career nine years ago in Houston, TX, with 9th graders and eventually ended up teaching 9-12 English/Language Arts and English as a Second Language. In addition, he was an Academic Coach, Cheer Coach, staff pianist for the Jazz Band and the Theatre Arts Department, and Title I Coordinator and Dyslexia Specialist. He believes an excellent education is the foundation for a more equitable society and leads students to a choice-filled life. Brandon's favorite books are "A Man Without a Country" by Kurt Vonnegut and "Go Set a Watchman" by Harper Lee.

Louisket Edmond is Atmosphere's High School French/Spanish Teacher. He is originally from Gonave island, Haiti. Mr. Edmond completed his dual Bachelor's degree in French and Spanish literature at Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and a Master's degree in French education at the University of Maine in Orono, Maine. He studied abroad in Oaxaca, Mexico and taught ESL while in Oaxaca. He also escorted students from the University of Maine to Laval University in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada and taught them French while in Quebec City. Mr. Edmond focused on Curriculum as a doctoral student at American College of Education and he currently creates a culture of encouragement in his classroom at AAPCS.

Panagiota (Penny) Kapanika is Atmosphere's 11th Grade English Teacher. She has enjoyed serving the communities she has lived in as a teacher and school leader since coming to NYC two decades ago to pursue her Master's degree at Teachers College. Her classroom has been home to many English and Social Studies courses, and when she is not enjoying time with her students there she can be found enjoying some good music, food, art, or movies.

Elizabeth Rivera is Atmosphere's 9th/10th Grade Special Education Teacher. She received her Bachelor's degree from Binghamton University and her Master’s in Special Education from Touro College. Ms. Rivera is certified in Special Education. Previously, Ms. Rivera taught at The Lorge School where she began her teaching career. At The Lorge School, Ms. Rivera provided behavioral and academic interventions for students of the highest need for 17 years ranging from K-12. She has dedicated her life to helping students learn the strategies needed to be successful both academically and socio-emotionally.

Jonee Carvalho is Atmosphere's 9th & 10th Grade Physical Education Teacher. Mrs. Carvalho holds a Bachelor of Arts in Exercise Science and a Masters Degree in Education from Concorida University in Irvine. She has over 20 years of experience working with youth. Jonee is passionate about helping scholars obtain the tools that are essential for living a happy and healthy life. Mrs. Carvalho is excited to be a part of the Atmosphere community.

Caterina Plymouth is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Math Teacher. Caterina received her Bachelor's degree from Nyack College, New York, and has been a middle school STEM teacher for the past three years. She is currently looking forward to continuing her education journey by getting a master's degree in education and continuing to grow as an educator.

Tamieka Frierson is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Math Teacher. Before becoming an educator, she served in the United States Navy for 7 years. After her honorable discharge, she pursued a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with a specialization in Management from Saint Leo University. She became an NYC Teaching Fellow and received a Master's in Special Education from Hunter College. Although she is certified to teach all subjects under her license, both her specialty and passion live in the world of mathematics. In her previous experiences as an educator, she understands the incredible bridge that must be built between children, their families, and herself. Therefore before any learning takes place, a strong relationship built on the foundation of trust must occur. Her educational philosophy, states that she must show students that mathematics is everywhere and applicable to all aspects of their lives both currently and futuristically. In addition to inspiring young children to excel and recognize a plethora of ways to apply math, she places a huge emphasis on providing all students multiple entry points into a lesson and finding value in learning all the different ways her students see, understand, and apply math. This way, she can creatively think of varied methods to best meet the needs of all her learners regardless of their initial abilities. As a result, students build confidence, develop the ability to engage in academic discourse about their learning, and achieve their education and individual goals.

Patrick Cooney is Atmosphere's 11th Grade Mathematics Teacher. He will be entering his fifteenth year of teaching this year and is very excited to work with everyone! He earned a Bachelor's degree in mathematics from Ithaca College and a MAT from Ithaca as well. He is excited to motivate the students further by moving up with the class of 2025 to work on Algebra II/Trigonometry and Precalculus with them. He swims every day and plays the piano often. As the author of 36 books, he prides himself in his accomplishments and shares them with the students because he believes they can accomplish anything equally. Keep pushing yourself, scholars, and know that you can do it!

John Gallagher is Atmosphere’s 10th Grade English Teacher. With twenty years of teaching experience, Mr. Gallagher leads students into new realms of self-discovery and understanding of how they relate to their world. Mr. Gallagher has spent the last six years teaching in New York City Charter High Schools. During that time he has been instrumental in raising student passing rates on the ELA Regents. He also has extensive experience teaching SAT and ACT prep all over Long Island and parts of Queens. Mr. Gallagher has also been involved in musical instruction and studio recording engineering in previous schools.

Annona Giam is Atmosphere's High School Art Teacher. Ms. Giam has her BFA in Painting and Drawing from SUNY Purchase. She has been teaching for two years. She believes that good art education can give students skills that will benefit them in every aspect of life.

Hector Ogando is Atmosphere's High School Art Teacher. He graduated from Quinnipiac University with a Bachelor Degree in Arts and Science in Game Design and development. He moved to Texas to pursue a Certificate Art Program at SMU Guildhall. Where he was part of a development team that created Goofballs, a 3D soccer game that can be found on Steam. He taught at a high school after school program for a year teaching 3D modeling to students. Then taught for three years at an online program teaching middle school students art, coding, and design.

Ke'aisa Washington is Atmosphere's 9th/10th Grade Teaching Assistant. She appreciates building connections with scholars in any classroom where she is needed. She previously worked as a 1:1 paraprofessional, working strictly with Special Education students. She is gaining new experiences and knowledge. She is thrilled to contribute and become a part of Atmosphere's outstanding growing community.

Tyson Himes is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Social Studies Teacher. Mr. Himes was born and raised in rural Pennsylvania and attended Penn State University for his undergraduate work in Philosophy, Political Science, and History. While at Penn State, he studied abroad in Athens, Greece and participated in archaeological digs in Murighiol, Romania, and Thebes, Greece. After college he worked as a legal assistant at a small law firm in Pittsburgh, PA while running a donation-based hostel. He then worked as an Assembly Messenger for the Wisconsin State Legislature in Madison, WI, getting an up-close look at the legislative process in action. After Madison, he moved to New York City where he got a Master's Degree in Political Science and started teaching at Brooklyn College Academy and Hunter College. While teaching political science he gained experience tutoring 8th grade students at Huntington Learning Center in math, reading comprehension, and vocabulary. He looks forward to getting to know the Atmosphere team and developing impactful relationships with his students.

Teresa Rountree is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Science Teacher. Ms. Rountree was raised in a low-income community in New York. Many years of her professional career were dedicated to working in nonprofit organizations. She spent 7 years supporting families in the community she grew up in as an Afterschool Program Director. She has earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology/Zoology and a Master’s Degree in Adolescent Science Education. Additionally, she has 9 years of experience teaching in Bronx middle schools. Her love for teaching science is partially credited to her 7th and 9th grade science teachers. They cultivated her love for science in the way she hopes to do for her students.

Indiana Aleman is Atmosphere's 9th Grade English Teacher. Ms. Aleman was raised in New York City, where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies from Hunter College, and a Television News Production Certificate from New York University. Ms. Aleman received a Master of Science in Educational Technology from Barry University, and an International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Certificate in Language & Literature from the Center for the Advancement and Study of International Education in Atlanta. With 17 years of teaching experience, Ms. Aleman has taught many subjects under the English domain at the middle school, high school, and college levels. She believes all students are capable of achieving academic success, and is grateful and excited to be a part of the Atmosphere community.

Jeann Baker-Decambre is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Math Teacher. She has earned her degree in Mathematics from Marymount College. Mrs. Baker-DeCambre has been teaching math for over 20 years, both at the High School and Middle School level. She's Certified in New York State and Florida. Mrs. Baker-DeCambre enjoys motivating and aspiring her scholars to succeed.

Charles Kosek Jr. is Atmosphere's 9th Grade Physical Education Teacher. Mr. Kosek earned his Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education from CUNY Brooklyn College and his Master of Education in General and Special Education for Grades 1-6 from Touro College. Mr. Kosek holds three teaching certifications in physical education, special education, and general education, and has six years of experience teaching physical education.

Alexis Nunez is Atmosphere's High School Athletics Associate Manager. Mr. Nunez graduated from Misericordia University, where he obtained a Master of Science. He has five years of experience working in the education system. In addition, Mr. Nunez works with a non-profit organization that provides unique opportunities through sports for kids of the Westchester community.

Keanu Tejada is Atmosphere's Substitute Teacher.

Raquel Sommerville is Atmosphere's 9th Grade English Teacher. She teaches 5 sections of Critical Reading and Critical Writing. Ms. Sommerville holds both a Master of Arts in Teaching (Secondary English Education) and a Bachelor of Arts in English from SUNY New Paltz. She is New York State certified as an English teacher. Previously,  Ms. Sommerville was an English Teacher and a Department Chair at VOICE Charter School.