Middle School

Carolina Mota is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Operations Manager. Ms. Mota is native of the Dominican Republic, but she has lived in The Bronx for most of her life after migrating to the U.S at the age of two. Ms. Mota has extensive experience in operations and administration. Most of Ms. Mota's administrative experience was in healthcare; however in 2020, after 13 years in healthcare, she decided to change her career path and begin a new path in education. She is very excited to be part of the Atmosphere family and is confident that her experience will be an asset to the team. She is looking forward to further developing her experience and knowledge in education, and very confident that Atmosphere is the perfect place to do so. Ms. Mota is looking forward to adding a little spark to our students' paths in an effort of enlightening their outlook on the greatness they can achieve in their near future.

Catherine Toussaint is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Operations Manager. She earned her Bachelor of Arts at Mercy College with a concentration in Business Administration. She is currently pursuing her Masters in Business Administration. Ms. Toussaint is well versed in various aspects of the Charter School community, and she is very excited and happy to bring her seven years of experience to Atmosphere Academy.

Neeta Joseph is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Operations Associate. Ms. Joseph has played many roles in early education for the past 12 years. She started off as a teacher and moved up to be Director at a daycare in Rockland County for 4 years, where she managed day-to-day operational processes, school curriculum syllabi, and oversaw staff. She is very excited to bring what knowledge she has to the table.

Justin Brandon is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Operations Manager. Previously, he served as Director of Operations in New York's shelter system, where he oversaw more than 30 security guards, shift supervisors and maintenance staff. Justin holds a Bachelor of Science in Business/Sport Management from Mercy College.

Diosmairy Polonia is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Operations Associate. Ms. Polonia earned her Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education at Medgar Evers College and is currently in her last semester of her Bachelor's Degree in Middle and High School Education at Lehman College. She has been working as a teaching assistant for the past four years and is currently in the process of obtaining her teaching certification in New York City. She is so excited to join the Atmosphere family.

Gladys Diazgranados is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Operations Assistant.

Marleny Ramirez is Atmosphere's 7th Grade School Counselor. Ms. Ramirez has a Bachelor of Science in Mass Communications and Political Science. She graduated from SUNY Oneonta, where she worked for the Office of New Student Services and the Office of Equity and Inclusion, where her objectives aligned with making the environment on campus inclusive and comfortable for all students regardless of background and identity. Ms. Ramirez enjoys traveling, so much so that she took her work abroad. She spent several months working for a news station in Costa Rica. Afterwards she shifted careers and accepted a teaching opportunity in the Dominican Republic, teaching English to new English learners. She is currently getting her Master's in School Counseling at Hunter College, and genuinely enjoys working closely with students.

Paola Rodriguez is Atmosphere's 6th Grade School Counselor. Ms. Rodriguez holds a Master of Science in School Counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Previously, she served as a School Counselor for 5 years in trauma-informed schools providing trauma-focused interventions to scholars in the welfare system.

Kimberly Liriano is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Culture Associate. Ms. Liriano holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Monroe College. She previously has worked with adolescents in the capacity of providing social-emotional outlets through evidence-based practices. Ms. Liriano's ultimate goal is to continue strengthening interdisciplinary collaborations and provide an environment where students are able to be successful in all aspects of their Academic and Social career.

Matthew McKenzie is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Culture Associate. He is well experienced in community relations and outreach. As the owner of a wellness service and boutique production company, Mr. Matt is committed to teaching youth to prioritize their health and aspire towards careers and lifestyles that foster fulfillment.

Julio Pimentel is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Culture Associate.

Jeremy Agyemang is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Culture Associate. He is currently a student at Fordham University and is working toward his Bachelor's Degree in Social Work. He has worked with young people for almost 10 years and got his start as a Maker/STEM Teaching Artist. Mr. Agyemang is looking forward to making sure that all of the scholars that he interacts with achieve all of their goals.

Wilmer Leon is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Culture Assistant. Previously, he was a security guard, custodial associate and School Aide for Atmosphere. Mr. Leon has extensive background and training in the U.S. Military.

Keisha Lewis is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Culture Associate. Mrs. Lewis graduated from SUNY Oneonta with a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology. Before joining Atmosphere Academy, Mrs. Lewis worked at the Administration For Children and Family Services as a Child Protective Specialist. In this position, Mrs. Lewis was tasked with helping link families to services to ensure safe home environments. Mrs. Lewis started her career working with Good Shepherd Services as a middle school assistant director in Brooklyn. It is Mrs. Lewis's belief that while working with children it is important to include as many stakeholders as possible to ensure maximum success and goal achievement. Also, when you include children in the solution of their own problems they become more invested in attaining any goals that are set.

Keyana Fraser is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Culture Assistant. Ms. Fraser aquired her Liberal Arts Dgree from Bronx Community College. Her love for childern has forster her career in education, specifically focusing on childhood devlopment. With her stong belief and continued educatoin, Ms. Fraser attended the Shcool of Professional Studies were she obtained her Child Development Associate. Within a 6 year spand, Ms. fraser has taught students ranging from the ages of four to twleve. Ms. fraser has lead her own elementry classes, acted as a subsituted teacher for middle schoolers and is currently Assistant to the Dean.

Sabrina Garcia is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Culture Assistant.

Natasha Diaz is the 8th-grade Culture Assistant. Natasha’s extensive background in Drama, holding an Associate's Degree from The American Musical and Dramatic Academy, brings our students a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Natasha's role goes beyond the traditional classroom curriculum, as she provides students with a wide range of resources and outlets to help them navigate the challenges they may face in their daily lives. Whether through group discussions or one-on-one mentoring, Natasha is dedicated to helping our students thrive academically and emotionally.

Tyrelle Goodman is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Cultural Associate. Mr. Goodman holds a Bachelor's Degree in Organizational Leadership from the University of Akron. Previously, he served as a Dean of Scholars and Families for four years at a charter school in Mount Vernon. In that role, he worked to provide scholars with the academic and social-emotional support needed for successful learning and individual development while encouraging strong parent involvement and offering family support.

Andrew Gerardi is Atmosphere's Middle School Art Teacher. Mr. Gerardi believes strongly in the healing power of the arts. He has an art degree from Stony Brook University and has an art practice outside of work where he works mainly in acrylic and oil paint. He also has several years of experience teaching art to children and adults. He loves going for hikes, learning Italian, and going to museums in his spare time.

Anthony Onorata is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Physical Education Teacher. Born and raised in New Jersey, Mr. Onorata completed his Bachelor of Science with a major in Physical Education & Health as well as a minor in Coaching. Mr. Onorata attended Barry University in Miami Shores, FL where he completed a four year program in three years. With over nine years of experience in pedagogy, Mr. Onorata is excited to join Atmosphere.

Antonette Smith is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Social Studies Teacher. Hailing from Jamaica, she holds a Bachelor's Degree in Education from the University of Technology and is obtaining her Master's in Education from the New York Institute. Antonette has a genuine passion for working with young adults and is dedicated to supporting every child's progress across all facets of their development, academic or social. She embraces the daily challenge of nurturing growth in her students and strives to create a vibrant community of learners in a positive and enjoyable environment. Teaching has been an integral part of her life since a young age, and she looks forward to a long career with Atmosphere Academy.

Ariel Sanchez is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Health Teacher. Mr. Sanchez is currently enrolled at York College, working towards his Bachelor's Degree in Physical Education.

Ayisha Stephens is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Global Studies Teacher. She has worked in education since 2014 in various capacities and served as an Advocacy Coordinator for High School students. Ayisha has a bachelor's Degree from Mercy College and is currently pursuing a Master's Degree in education. Ayisha's passion for teaching and history has brought her to Atmosphere Academy to continue fostering the young minds of our future leaders.

Brendan Kelly is Atmosphere’s 7th Grade Physical Education Teacher. Brendan strongly advocates for a diverse P.E. curriculum that includes Team Sports, Cooperative Activities, and Fitness. Brendan completed his B.S. in 2010 at the nearby Manhattan College, followed by his M.A. at Manhattanville College shortly after. In 2015, Brendan embarked on his teaching career as a full-time substitute in the Yonkers Public School district. His ongoing mission is to offer students guidance in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle.

Cassandra Coleman is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Math Teacher. Ms. Coleman received her B.A. in Education from Lehman College and attended City College to pursue an. M.A. in Education. She has been a dedicated educator for 15 years. Over the years she has had the pleasure to teach Middle School in the public, charter, and private sectors. Her most recent roles have included serving as a Math Regents Prep Teacher, Curriculum and Instruction Leader for the US Army’s Child Development Center in Georgia, and Math Teacher for the Department of Education. When not working, Ms. Coleman volunteers at her church heading an outreach program organizing free tutoring and educational services for the children in their neighborhood. Ms. Coleman’s teaching philosophy is that every child is born with potential and is thrilled to be a part of the Atmosphere community.

Chris DiGiacomo-Singh is Atmosphere's 8th Grade English Teacher. Mr. Singh earned his Bachelor of Arts in English and Political Science from Queens College. While studying as an undergraduate, he was a staff writer for the school newspaper. Currently, he is in the process of finishing up his master's thesis at Queens College. He has taught in both public and private schools and now looks forward to working with the young scholars at Atmosphere Academy. His passions include photography, travel, food, grammar, and science fiction.

Daequan Lawrence is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Math Teacher. Mr. Lawrence has over seven years of teaching experience in core subjects for 5th through 9th Grades. He holds a Master's Degree in Elementary Education. He believes that education is our passport to a successful future and is excited to be a part of the Atmosphere community.

Danielle Meyers is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Special Education Teacher. Mrs. Meyers has 23 years of K-8 teaching experience in Special and General Education, with a concentration in literacy and instructional skills to help facilitate student learning. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and three Master's Degrees in Special and General Education, as well as in Leadership. She is currently pursuing a Ph.Ed in Organizational Leadership in Special Education.

Debgeri Cubi is Atmosphere's 6th Grade English Teacher. Mrs. Cubi has more than twenty years of teaching experience both in New York and her native island home, Jamaica. She has a Diploma in Teaching from Mico University, Jamaica; a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Psychology from American Intercontinental University Atlanta, Georgia; and a Master of Science in Education Media Design & Technology, from Full Sail University Winters Park, Florida.

Desirea Ribot is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Teaching Assistant. Ms. Ribot has worked in the education system for 12 years in various roles. She looks forward to fostering growth and development in our students.

Dyahnah Wilson is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Science Teacher. She has been in the classroom teaching Science for three years. Dyahnah is fluent in English and is also learning Spanish with the help of her students and Foreign Language platforms. When Dyahnah is not teaching Science, she researches questions she's written down or plays Sudoku. Dyahnah believes in children's spirit and ability to achieve in school and life.

Ebony Wilson is Atmsophere's 7th Grade Substitute Teacher. Ms. Wilson utilizes a sociological approach gained from her Undergraduate Studies at Georgia State University to empower all students and further foster a culture of inclusivity. When not in the classroom, she completes coursework for her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Manhattan College, online shopping, or hanging out at home with her cat, Gracella Ann. Ebony believes that all scholars, no matter their socioeconomic status or cultural background, are capable of great things and should be pushed to achieve excellence.

Eno Boamah is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Substitute Teacher. Eno graduated from the University at Buffalo with her bachelor's in early childhood and wishes to gain her master's in education. She has most of her experience working with children of younger ages in child development. Before joining Atmosphere, Eno was an infant and toddler teacher for several years. Her love and care for children continue to grow and extend from early developers to all ages. A fun fact about Eno is that she loves to travel and wishes to visit all seven continents. Eno is excited to start her journey of working in a school and experiencing a whole new environment.

Flavia Smart is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Science Teacher. Ms. Smart has 10 years of teaching experience with undergraduate education in science and holds two master's degrees; one in Adolescent Education and one in Curriculum Design. Ms. Smart has roots in the West Indies, being born in Barbados and having family stemming from Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Ms. Smart loves teaching science, watching anime and binge watching a good show. She looks forward to teaching, growing and building community all Atmosphere scholars and families.

Genesis Fernandez is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Physical Education Teacher. Prior to graduation, she was a health advisor servicing her college campus and youth centers in the Albany area. Post graduation, she began teaching early elementary and middle school in 2016, later gravitating back to health education, her passion. She believes teaching health education to adolescents is essential to help them adopt basic knowledge and skills needed to acquire healthy behaviors. She is excited to serve the Atmosphere community.

Iveliz Padilla, serving as Atmosphere's 6th-grade Teacher Assistant, brings a wealth of experience to her role. With a prior two-year tenure as a paraprofessional in the DOE, where she focused on special education within a 6:1:1 group, Iveliz has meticulously honed her skills and deepened her unwavering passion for assisting others. Recently, she achieved a significant milestone by earning her Associates Degree from Hostos Community College, a goal she has cherished since her youth. Now, as she steps into the role she has long aspired to, Iveliz is wholeheartedly committed to making a substantial and positive impact on the academic journeys of her students.

Jayeanne Pacor is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Math Teacher. Ms. Pacor received her B.A. and M.A. in Education from Saint John’s University. She has been a dedicated educator for 24 years. Over her 24 years in teaching, she has enjoyed teaching Elementary and Middle School in the charter, parochial, and independent sectors. During her four years at Atmosphere, Ms. Pacor has taught 6th-grade Achievement and Math. Ms. Pacor looks forward to every day she works with the scholars at Atmosphere Academy.

Joseph Acevedo is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Math Teacher. Mr. Acevedo, known to his students as "Mr. Ace,” has been a middle school math teacher since his career started in 2006 when he graduated with honors from Manhattan College. In his first year, Mr. Ace taught 6th grade math. He developed a great relationship with his students, and they asked him to move up to 7th grade with them. In his 16 years as a teacher, he’s taught 6th grade math for 3 years, 7th grade math for 12 years, and technology for 1 year. Education is not only his profession, but his passion. So much so, that he created a YouTube Channel called The Math Review, focused on providing a great, common core standard aligned resource for other math teachers and students. His primary objective is to create students that learn to become independent thinkers so they are prepared for high school and beyond.

Katie Lennon is Atmosphere's 7th Grade ELL Teacher. Ms. Lennon holds an M.S.Ed degree in TESOL K-12 from SUNY New Paltz. Ms. Lennon gained two years of teaching experience in the states of Colorado and Indiana, before moving back to her home state of NY. She specializes in English Language Education and strives to ensure that our ELL and immigrant populations at Atmosphere are successful and provided with the tools they need to achieve excellence.

Katie Weinstein is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Special Education Teacher. She supports students with IEPs in various classroom settings. Ms. Weinstein holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Behavioral Science from Marist College. She is New York State certified as a teacher and a special education teacher. Previously, she student taught in Marlboro, New York and Hyde Park, New York.

Keanu Tejada is Atmosphere's Substitute Teacher.

Kimberly McDonald is Atmosphere's 7th Grade English Teacher. Ms. McDonald holds a bachelor's degree in Adolescent Education English 7-12. She also just earned her master's in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology. Ms. McDonald is going into her third year teaching middle school. She believes that education is the key to success and hopes to instill this message in her students.

Kurt Keedo Kelly, Sr. is Atmosphere’s 6th Grade Science Teacher. Born in Kingston, Jamaica, and raised in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, he firmly believes in the motto, "Every Child Can Learn, Every Child Must Learn." Kurt holds a Master’s in Science Education from the University of Guelph and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Humber College in Toronto, Canada. With an impressive 22-year career in education, he is licensed to teach grades 1-6 and is currently pursuing his doctorate in educational leadership and curriculum at Liberty University. Kurt is enthusiastic about guiding scholars to achieve their full academic potential.

Lance Albritton is Atmopshere's 8th Grade Math Teacher. He is thrilled to be part of the Atmosphere Academy Public Charter School community. Before joining Atmosphere, Mr. Albritton taught for Palm Beach County Schools (FL) for three years as an 8th Grade Mathematics Teacher. Before going into teaching, Mr. Albritton served as a Behavior Specialist for many years where he worked with emotionally and behaviorly challenged students. Mr. Albritton currently holds a Bachelor of Science from Greensboro College (NC). He also serves as the Assistant Girls Basketball Coach here at Atmosphere. Mr. Albritton has a true passion for working with the youth. He strives to create a community of young learners that will nurture their growth in a positive way. Mr. Albritton enjoys spending time with family & friends, traveling, cooking and attending different sporting events.

Lolimar Peña is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Special Education Teacher. Ms.Peña was born and raised in Inwood, Manhattan. She is the first generation in her family to graduate from college. She earned her bachelor's degree in Psychology at Concordia College and her Master's in Special Education at New York University. She is pleased to join the 6th-grade middle school team at Atmosphere Academy.

Mary Villacis is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Special Education Teacher. She has been teaching for eight years and is excited to have joined Atmosphere Academy. She holds a Master's in Childhood Education Tri Certification and Early Childhood Education. Mrs. Villacis believes in inspiring the leaders of tomorrow to never give up, even when faced with challenges that seem impossible to overcome.

Meghan Dunne is Atmosphere’s 6th Grade Special Education Teacher. She supports students with IEPs in Math and English classes. Ms. Dunne holds a Master of Science in Childhood Education from Molloy College and a Bachelor of Science in Childhood Education from Molloy College. She is New York State certified as a special education teacher. Previously, she taught in the West Islip School District and the North Merrick School District.

Meldrick Fernandez is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Physical Education Teacher. Mr. Fernandez has earned both an AA from Laguardia community college, and a BA from Lehman College in Philosophy, respectively. Meldrick has gathered an array of experience in the past six years through his education, hospitality, and security work. As a critical thinker, Mr. Fernandez considers all angles when approaching any given situation to reach the most productive solution available. A proud Bronx native, Mr. Fernandez is eager to have a positive impact in an inclusive community, such as Atmosphere.

Nosheen Ayaub is Atmosphere’s Middle School Substitute Teacher. Nosheen brings nearly three decades of educational experience to Atmosphere Academy. Her extensive career has primarily unfolded overseas, encompassing various professional roles in Pakistan and China, where she taught English at all grade levels. Nosheen provides students with a broad platform to discover and refine their potential. She firmly believes that every person possesses unique talents, and it is the role of mentors and facilitators to offer diverse channels for individuals to explore and develop their abilities.

Owen Sniatkowski is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Social Studies Teacher. He was born in New Jersey but raised in rural Vermont through college. He has a bachelor's Degree with a Major in History and a Minor in Child Psychology from Castleton University. Owen is passionate about making the topic of History a compelling and experiential adventure for all students. He takes his passion for history outside of the classroom, volunteering at a historical reenactment and living history events across the East coast. His interests also include sports like baseball, soccer, football, and skateboarding.

Perzza Gonzalez is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Science Teacher. Ms. Gonzalez obtained her bachelor at Lehman College in Sociology and her Master's in Science Education. She previously work at Promise Academy II Middle School for 7 years as a science teacher. She also enjoys taking a hands-on approach toward science and believes all children should learn science concepts through hands-on activities. Ms. Gonzalez is currently working toward her special education extension on her master's degree to better serve our students.

Prince Aboagye is Atmosphere Academy's 7th Grade Science Teacher. Prince brings with him three years of experience in teaching science. Prince is eagerly looking forward to enhancing and expanding his foundational teaching skills while fostering authentic relationships with his students.

Priscilla Soto is Atmosphere’s 7th-grade ELA/Social Studies teacher in her second year of teaching. She is currently obtaining her Master's Degree at Mercy University. Priscilla has a passion for teaching and making a difference in the lives of the scholars in the Bronx.

Ramona Jones is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Special Education Teacher. Mrs. Jones received her Bachelor of Arts from CUNY-City College. She earned a Dual Master of Science in Early Education and Special Education from The College of New Rochelle. She also has a Master of Divinity from Alliance Theological Seminary. Mrs. Jones is certified in General and Special Education from Birth to Sixth grade. Mrs. Jones has been an advocate for children and their families within various communities for more than three decades. Previously, Mrs. Jones owned and operated a family daycare for eight years and taught as a Special Education Teacher in a Self-Contained classroom in the NYC Public School System. Mrs. Jones also taught in a NY State mental hospital with middle and high school students. Mrs. Jones is highly respected in her community and volunteers as a mentor to numerous men, women and children.

Ravyn Gilbert is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher. Ms. Gilbert holds a Bachelor's Degree in Adolescent Education with a concentration in Social Studies and has a Master of Science in Teaching Students with Disabilities. Previously, she worked as Pre-Kindergarten teacher as Brightside Academy in the Bronx. Ms. Gilbert is excited and motivated in providing an interactive social studies experience with her students and seeks to grow and learn along with them.

Rayan Baidoun is Atmosphere's 8th Grade English Teacher.

Raylissa Rivera is Atmosphere's 8th Special Education Teacher. Raylissa was born and raised in the Bronx and was the first in her family to obtain a Bachelor's and a Master's degree. She has a Bachelor's in computer graphics and Imaging from Lehman College and a Master's in Special Education from Relay Graduate School of Education. Raylissa enjoys going to concerts, DJing, and playing video games in her free time. She also loves to watch wrestling (WWE) and attend live events.

Rayon Thomas is Atmosphere’s 7th-grade Grade Science Teacher. Rayon obtained his Education Degree at the Mico University College on his native island of Jamaica, after which he studied Childhood Education at St. Francis College in Brooklyn, New York. Rayon has been a science teacher for over five years and is committed to the task of educating our nation's children. His educational philosophy states that education is the vehicle that drives one from poverty to a destination called success. Rayon is known for fostering a classroom that encourages social and emotional development while promoting student learning in a student-centered environment. His passion and dedication have resulted in his pursuit of a Master's in Education.

Roseangela Massa is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Physical Education Teacher. Ms.Massa holds a Masters's Degree in Physical Education and a bachelor's Degree in Sports Studies. She attended Manhattanville college and earned both of her degrees there. She has been teaching now for 8 years. Previously she worked at a Catholic school teaching grades Pre-K through 8th.

Ross Grunwald is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Special Education Teacher. Mr. Grunwald graduated from Five Towns College with a bachelor's in Business Management and Audio Engineering. Mr. Grunwald continued his education and received a Masters's in Elementary education. Mr. Grunwald has a certification in general education and special education. Prior to teaching 7th grade, he was Atmosphere's 6th-grade special education teacher for both Math and Science.

Sarah Hendry is Atmosphere's 8th Grade ELL Teacher. She has her Bachelor of Science in Childhood and Special Education and concentration in Mathematics from the College of Saint Rose. She has a Master's degree from Syracuse University in Teaching English Language Learners. Previously, Ms. Hendry has served as an ESL Teacher in the South Bronx and Special Education with a concentration in Mathematics Teacher in Brooklyn.

Scott Friebel is Atmosphere’s 6th Grade Physical Education Teacher. Mr. Friebel holds a Master of Science in Physical Education from Hofstra University and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Management from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice. He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Health Education at SUNY The College at Brockport. Mr. Friebel is a New York State AHPERD member where he presents physical education activities at local and state-level conferences. Previously he worked part-time as an Athletic Administrator for a Long Island-based youth sports company and also coached youth volleyball, lacrosse, and hockey while working towards his degrees.

Sharon Garlick is Atmosphere's 7th Grade English Teacher. Ms. Garlick has a combined 15 years of educational experience in both General Education and Special Education. She holds a dual Master's degree in Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities. Before coming to Atmosphere, Ms. Garlick was a 5th & 6th Grade Special Education Teacher for four years and a 5th Grade English Language Arts Teacher for four years. She is excited to bring her experience to the Atmosphere team.

Sheydgi Rivera is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Math Teacher. Ms. Rivera earned her Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics and Master of Arts in Mathematics Education from Hunter College. She is a New York State certified teacher who loves to learn. Not only does Ms. Rivera love teaching and learning, but she is an animal lover!

Shontay Coleman is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Social Studies Teacher. Ms.Coleman was born and raised in New York City and attended Howard University, where she majored in Criminal Justice. She started her teaching career in Washington, DC, and then attended American University, where she received her Master's in Teaching. Ms.Coleman is a certified teacher with 22 years of experience. Before coming to Atmosphere, Ms.Coleman was an 8th and 6th-grade social studies teacher at TEP charter school for 6 years. She cultivated a classroom culture where her students felt accepted, respected, heard, and most of all loved. Ms.Coleman was also an instructional coach at KIPP Academy Elementary for 4 years, where her admiration of charter schools began. Ms.Coleman enjoys spending time with her 3 wonderful children and her yorkiepoo Brooklyn in her spare time.

Sophronia Williams is Atmosphere's 7th Grade Substitute Science Teacher. Sophronia is passionate about teaching science topics, including wildlife and environmental sciences, earth sciences, and chemistry. She believes learning should be an exciting and fun experience where scholars support and push each other to be their best. Sophronia welcomes all with a kind smile and a positive attitude.

Stephanie Baez is Atmosphere's 8th Grade Science Teacher. Mrs. Baez has been teaching for 9 years and is excited to continue growing as an educator with Atmosphere Academy. She developed her love for teaching when she was a teacher’s assistant at a low income neighborhood in the Bronx. Mrs. Baez loves to read, travel, and spend time with her family.

Suzanne Breslin-Larsen is Atmosphere's 6th Grade English Teacher. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education from Penn State and a Master of Arts from New York University. She has been teaching for 32 years.

Valerie Silverberg is Atmosphere's 6th Grade Special Education Teacher. Valerie's roots trace back to Harlem, New York, a place close to her heart, given her family's journey from South Carolina during the Great Migration era. With over a decade of educational experience, she's held various roles, including Program Supervisor for an afterschool instructional intervention program and teaching across different grade levels, from unique education settings to middle school ELA and high school mathematics. Valerie holds a degree in Secondary Education - Mathematics and advanced degrees in K-12 Special Education, Special Education - Curriculum and Instruction, and School District Leadership. She's also an alumna of Bank Street College and holds Master's in Education degrees from Concordia University and Mercy University, with ongoing pursuit of a Doctorate of Education in Special Education Leadership from Concordia University.

William Mendez is 6th Grade Special Education Teacher. William is dedicated to providing inclusive and individualized education. He creates a nurturing environment where every student feels valued and empowered regardless of their unique challenges or abilities. William employs various instructional strategies, including differentiated instruction, multisensory approaches, and assistive technology, to make the curriculum accessible and engaging, particularly in English Language Arts (ELA). William looks to share his experiences and knowledge with the Atmosphere community.

Yesenia Rivera is Atmosphere's 6th Grade ELL Teacher. She holds her Master of Science in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Mercy College. Ms. Rivera has previously worked in the DOE system.