Kevin Garvey, Director of Facilities & Operations

I look forward to carrying out the district's capital improvement projects recently approved by the Harrison community.  It is clear to me from the interview process that the facilities and operations staff are highly dedicated people who are proud of the work they do and continuously provide the students and staff with a clean and safe environment.  I am very happy to be joining such a dedicated team.

Mr. Garvey joins the Harrison Central School District with considerable expertise in all facets of capital planning, design and construction, and physical plant operations.  Since 2017, Mr. Garvey has served as the Associate Vice President for Administration at William Patterson University in Wayne, New Jersey, where he has overseen multi-million dollar capital improvement projects.  Mr. Garvey was promoted to this role at William Patterson University, having served for four years as their Director of Physical Plant Operations.  His prior experience also includes serving for seven years as the Director of Physical Plant Operations and Campus Services and Security at Westchester Community College, and as a Chief Engineer at the Metropolitan Museum of Modern Art.  Mr. Garvey holds a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from the Maritime College at the State University of New York.

Jason Dore, Special Education

From the start, I was impressed with Harrison's track record of success and the variety of programs and services offered to students. It was obvious during the interview process that I was being valued as a teacher and seen for my strengths, which indicated to me that the same will be done for our students.

Mr. Dore earned a Bachelor of Science degree with a minor in Education and a Master of Arts Degree in Special Education from St. Thomas Aquinas College, where he graduated with Magna Cum Laude honors.  He most recently served as a teaching assistant in a self-contained special education program for students with autism at Rockland BOCES.  His experience also includes volunteering with Special Olympics. 

Jason Douglas, Special Education

I am excited to continue my teaching journey in Harrison, a district that values the importance of equity. I plan on applying my years of experience working in various special education classrooms with a diverse student population to provide an equitable experience for my students.

Mr. Douglas returns to Harrison High School having served as a teacher aide and leave replacement teacher in the district.  He has supported students as a 1:1 aide and classroom teacher, and is deeply committed to supporting the emotional development of his students.  Mr. Douglas holds certification in educating Students with Disabilities at all grade levels. He earned a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Mercy College and a Dual Master's degrees in Early Elementary and Special Education from Grand Canyon University.

Maya Federmann, English

Throughout my interview process, I could see Harrison’s commitment to creating the best learning environment for all students. I am looking forward to teaching at a school where students' academic and personal development and interests are celebrated!

Ms. Federmann joins Harrison High School as an English teacher.  She recently served as a substitute teacher in grades 6-12 in the New Paltz Central School District.  Ms. Federmann received a Bachelor's degree and Master's degree in Adolescent Education, with a concentration in English from SUNY New Paltz .  As an undergraduate she earned Summa Cum Laude honors, received the Distinguished Service and Outstanding Graduate Awards and was a member of the Sigma Tau Delta English Honor Society and Kappa Delta Pi Education Honor Society.

Stavroula Georgoulis, School Psychologist

Teaching in Harrison means being part of a team where colleagues are always willing to lend a helping hand to support students. It's reassuring to know that we can turn to one another for support whenever needed and overall being around those with a collaborative spirit. 

Ms. Georgoulis recently completed an internship as a school psychologist at the Heathcote School in Scarsdale.  Her experience also includes working as a psychologist for Achieve Beyond Pediatric Therapy and Autism Services on Long Island.  Ms. Georgoulis earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Brooklyn College and a Master's degree in School Psychology from Iona University.  Ms. Gorgoulis holds both New York State and national certification as a school psychologist.

Jake Mitchnick, Business

I am looking forward to aligning the curriculum and classroom with Harrison's core values: equity, access, rigor, and adaptability… it’s my goal to make the classroom a place that encourages students to develop multiple literacies.

Mr. Mitchnick joins the faculty of Harrison High School as a Business teacher, recently serving as a permanent substitute in the East Meadow School District.  Mr. Mitchnick earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Ohio State University with Cum Laude honors. He also received a Master of Science degree in Business Education from Hofstra University.

Maxwell Shackman, Music

I am excited to work with a program that cares about building strong technique in the choral classroom.

Mr. Shackman joins the HHS faculty as a Chorus teacher, with broad experience performing with choral and theater ensembles and teaching experience at the elementary and secondary levels.  Mr. Shackman graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Music Education and a minor in Education, and earned a Certificate in Vocal Performance from the University of Miami, where he earned President’s, Provost’s, and Dean’s List honors.

Celena Chin, English

I am excited to be a part of a community of educators and lifelong learners who are passionate about providing students the love and nurturing they need to become the best that they can possibly be.

Ms. Chin joins the LMK Middle School faculty having recently completed a full-time leave replacement position as a 9th grade English teacher at Freeport High School. She earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in English Literature and Creative Writing and Education from Binghamton University and a Master of Arts in Teaching of English from Teachers College, Columbia University.

Alexandra Genova, Special Education

Harrison is a community that truly cares about its teachers and students. The town is rich in culture and diversity making it an exciting place to make my career home.

Ms. Genova joins the LMK Middle School faculty after serving as a special education teacher at the Riverside School in Greenwich, CT.   She also has worked as a teaching assistant and substitute teacher in the Tarrytown School District.  Ms. Genova holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration/Fashion Merchandising from LIM College and a Master of Science degree in Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities from Iona University.

Caroline Groome, Special Education

The support and collaboration opportunities provided to both students and staff that encourages growth makes me excited to begin teaching and proud to be a part of the Harrison community.

Ms. Groome brings experience as an elementary and middle school special education teacher in the Lynn, MA public schools to LMK.  She earned a Bachelor's degree in Inclusive Elementary and Special Education with Summa Cum Laude honors from Syracuse University and received a Master’s degree in Curriculum & Instruction, with a concentration in Special Education from University of Virginia.

Frances Hoey, Mathematics

I am excited to join the team at Louis M. Klein Middle School and provide an equitable, rigorous, and engaging math education for all students!

Ms. Hoey will teach mathematics at LMK, having previously taught high school mathematics at Sacred Heart Academy and Kellenberg Memorial High School.  Ms. Hoey received a Bachelor's degree in Mathematics, with a minor in Music and a Master's degree in Teaching Adolescent Mathematics from Iona University. As an undergraduate, she earned Dean’s List recognition, received the Honors Program Gold Medal, and was a member of the Pi Mu Epsilon Mathematics Honor Society.

Raffaele Macchia, Physical Education

Harrison's core values of equity, access, adaptability and rigor are something that stands out to me and will be implemented in my lessons. I am excited to work in a district that prides itself on not only the growth of the students, but the teachers as well.

Mr. Macchia joins the LMK faculty as a Physical Education teacher after serving as a student teacher and substitute teacher in Harrison.  He has served as an Assistant Coach for the Harrison High School Varsity Baseball team, and Assistant Director of the Town of Harrison Recreation Day Camp.  Mr. Macchia graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Mercy College, and received a Master of Arts in Teaching Physical Education and Sports Pedagogy from Manhattanville College.

Sumire Okada, School Psychology

I am impressed by the district's commitment to providing a well-rounded education and support for students.The district cares deeply about the staff and encourages the opportunities for growth, through a collaborative and positive environment. I'm very excited to join and  contribute to the Harrison community to support our students!

Ms. Okada has served as a graduate intern and counseling field worker in elementary and secondary schools, most recently providing counseling support at Scarsdale High School. She is fluent in both English and Japanese. Ms. Okada earned a Bachelor's degree in Human Development, with a minor in Psychology from University of California, Davis, and Master's degrees in Educational Psychology/Schooling, and School Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University.

Melanie Arminio, Elementary

Harrison's commitment to its children, and their philosophy that empowers students to grow their confidence, agency and resilience is deeply aligned with my values as an educator.

Ms. Arminio joins the faculty at Harrison Avenue after teaching various grades at the Murray Avenue School in Larchmont.  She thrives in a school community committed to supporting life-long learners. Ms. Arminio holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Pace University and a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education from Lehman College.

Joseph English, Physical Education

It is exciting to join a strong community that takes pride in and supports students and student athletes in and outside of school.

Mr. English will teach Physical Education at Harrison Avenue and Preston Elementary Schools. He recently completed a leave replacement position as an elementary Physical Education teacher in the Nanuet School District. Mr. English graduated Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education K-12 from SUNY Cortland, where he also was named to the Dean’s and President’s Lists.

Faith Ciavarella, Music

I am grateful for the Harrison School District's supportive community and I am excited to continue our collaboration to build positive experiences for students.

Ms. Ciavarella is an experienced musician and certified music educator, who served as a leave replacement Chorus teacher at Harrison Avenue last year.  She began her teaching career as a member of the Teach for America Corp in Philadelphia, and recently taught Music in the Nyack School District.  Ms. Ciavarella earned a Master's degree in Music Education from Johns Hopkins University and a Bachelor's degree in Music Education from Florida State University, where she was a member of the Phi Eta Sigma Honor Society.

Marissa Coulehan, World Languages

Harrison is a district that commits to teaching ALL students, regardless of means or background. It is my professional mission to promote excellence in early language learning through high quality language learning experiences for all students. I am thrilled to be "coming home" to Harrison.

Ms. Coulehan returns to Harrison in the World Language Department to share her expertise and commitment to early language learning.  She has deep experience as an elementary world language teacher, most recently teaching grades 2-5 in the Dobbs Ferry School District.  Ms. Coulehan also teaches courses on World Language instruction as an Adjunct Professor at Manhattanville College and Queens College, and has held leadership positions in several professional organizations.  She received a BS in Spanish and Secondary Education from the University of Maryland, MA in Teaching Early Childhood/Childhood Education from Manhattanville College, and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Computing from Stony Brook University.

Danielle Franciosa, Special Education

I am excited by how dedicated everyone is to making sure they hire educators that are dedicated and committed to student success.

Ms. Franciosa joins the district with a background as a general and special education teacher. For the past several years, she served as a special education teacher at the Claremont Elementary School in Ossining. She holds dual certifications in Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities at the Childhood Level.  Ms. Franciosa earned aa Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education with a Minor in Adaptive Physical Education from Manhattan College and a Master of Professional Studies in Childhood Education and Special Education from Manhattanville College.

Austin Frandino, Music

While interviewing in Harrison, I learned about the commitment the district has to serve their students, faculty and community…[and] am really excited to join such a supportive and successful group of educators!

Mr. Frandino has taught band, chorus and general music at the Woodglen Elementary School in New City and served as the spring musical director at Clarkstown South High School. He also is an experienced musician and performer and plays brass instruments, guitar, bass and piano. Mr. Frandino earned a Bachelor's degrees in Music and Music Education, and a Master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Connecticut.

Alyssa Gentzch, Elementary 

I am looking forward to taking advantage of the many professional development opportunities and new teacher training that is offered to me as a new teacher in the district.

Ms. Gentzch has worked as a general education and special education teacher in both urban and suburban school districts.  She most recently served as a K-1 Special Education teacher at the Increase Miller Elementary School in Katonah.  Ms. Gentzch holds multiple certifications: Childhood Education Grades 1-6, Students with Disabilities Grades 1-6 and Pre K-K, and Literacy.   She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology & Special Education, Childhood Education and Childhood Special Education from Marist College and a Masters of Science in Education, Literacy Specialist from Pace University.

Kristyn LaRocchia, Elementary

I am excited to teach in a school that values the professional learning and development of their staff to better support the students they are educating.

Ms. LaRocchia most recently taught at the CV Starr Intermediate School in Brewster and will join the Harrison Avenue team as a first grade teacher.  She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, with a concentration in American Sign Language concentration.  She graduated with Cum Laude honors and a Master of Arts degree in Special Education from Roger Williams University.

Morgan McGinley, Special Education 

Being a part of a district that has a strong sense of community, fosters collaboration with innovative programs, and creates an optimal learning environment for all students is truly rewarding to me.

Ms. McGinley joins the Harrison Avenue learning community, having most recently completed a leave replacement assignment at the Benjamin Franklin Elementary School in Yorktown Heights.  She graduated with Summa Cum Laude honors and as a member of the Dean’s and President’s Lists from SUNY Cortland.  Ms. McGinley holds dual certification in Childhood Education and Students with Disabilities Grades 1-6.

Morgan Ritchie, Elementary

Harrison places a strong emphasis on fostering a supportive and collaborative educational environment, a commitment to professional development, use of innovative teaching methods, and focus on student-centered learning.

Ms. Ritchie returns to Harrison Avenue Elementary School, after serving as a substitute teacher last year.  She graduated from Iona University with BA in Criminal Justice, Dean’s List and Cum Laude honors, and Masters in Teaching: Childhood Education Grades 1-6.  Ms. Ritchie also competed as a Division 1 athlete while an undergraduate.  

Michelle Schwartz, Art

The Harrison Central School District fosters a strong sense of community, and encourages and supports teachers continuously learning to ensure we are educating our students to the best of our abilities.

Ms. Schwartz comes to Harrison Avenue Elementary School with experience teaching at both the elementary and secondary levels, most recently teaching elementary and middle school art in the Bedford Central School District.  She holds a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts Education from the University of Maryland and a Master's degree in Art Education from the School of Visual Arts.

Dr. Stephanie Tatto, School Psychologist

Harrison is a school district of excellence with strong collaboration to ensure the best outcomes for students. I love collaborating with other professionals and am excited to work with strong teams of educators both at HAS and Parsons. 

Dr. Tatto is an experienced, certified school psychologist with broad experience supporting children at the elementary and secondary levels.  She returns to Harrison, having most recently served as a school psychologist in the Yorktown Central School District.  Dr. Tatto earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Marist College, a Master's degree in School Psychology from Fairfield University, and a Doctor of Psychology degree in School-Clinical Psychology from Pace University.

Wendy Torres, World Languages

I am excited to bring Spanish language to our elementary students and proud to be part of the IB Primary Years Program.

Ms. Torres is an experienced World Language teacher at the elementary level and has taught in the Eastchester and New York City school districts.  She holds multiple certifications in Childhood and Early Childhood Education, Bilingual Education, and Mathematics.  She received Bachelor's degrees in Bilingual Childhood Education and History, a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education from City College of New York, and a Master's degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from Hunter College.

Victoria Fernandes, Elementary

During the interview process, I learned so much about the values of inclusion and equity that Harrison holds to the highest importance. This was consistent through all the interactions I’ve had with various staff members from different schools in the district. It’s clear that in Harrison, everyone matters! 

Ms. Fernandes joins the Parsons Elementary School faculty after serving as a leave replacement teacher at Preston Elementary School.  She is certified in elementary education, grades 1-6. Ms. Fernandes graduated from Marymount Manhattan College with a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Acting, and she earned a Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Western Governors University.

Marissa Coulehan, World Languages

Harrison is a district that commits to teaching ALL students, regardless of means or background. It is my professional mission to promote excellence in early language learning through high quality language learning experiences for all students. I am thrilled to be "coming home" to Harrison.

Ms. Coulehan returns to Harrison in the World Language Department to share her expertise and commitment to early language learning.  She has deep experience as an elementary world language teacher, most recently teaching grades 2-5 in the Dobbs Ferry School District.  Ms. Coulehan also teaches courses on World Language instruction as an Adjunct Professor at Manhattanville College and Queens College, and has held leadership positions in several professional organizations.  She received a BS in Spanish and Secondary Education from the University of Maryland, MA in Teaching Early Childhood/Childhood Education from Manhattanville College, and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Computing from Stony Brook University.

Michelle Nicora, Speech Pathology

I look forward to teaching in the Harrison School District. I am impressed with the level of professionalism within the district, and look forward to serving the community and working alongside the other teachers and administrators to support the needs of the students.

Ms. Nicora holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Speech and Language, and a Master of Arts degree in Special Education.  She comes to Parsons Elementary School with experience as a Speech and Language teacher at the elementary and middle school levels.  She most recently served as a Speech and Language teacher and evaluator in grades K-5 in the Somers Central School District.

Dr. Stephanie Tatto, School Psychologist

Harrison is a school district of excellence with strong collaboration to ensure the best outcomes for students. I love collaborating with other professionals and am excited to work with strong teams of educators both at HAS and Parsons. 

Dr. Tatto is an experienced, certified school psychologist with broad experience supporting children at the elementary and secondary levels.  She returns to Harrison, having most recently served as a school psychologist in the Yorktown Central School District.  Dr. Tatto earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Marist College, a Master's degree in School Psychology from Fairfield University, and a Doctor of Psychology degree in School-Clinical Psychology from Pace University.

Caitlyn Tiedemann, Elementary

I was excited to learn about the commitment to creating a supportive environment for the students and the teachers, and impressed by the emphasis on innovative teaching methods, as well as the opportunities for professional growth and development! 

Ms. Tiedemann earned a Bachelor's degree in Childhood Education with a concentration in English from Iona University and she is pursuing a Master's degree in Literacy and Special Education from Pace University.  She recently completed her student teaching in grades 3 and 5 in the New Rochelle School District.

Wendy Torres, World Languages

I am excited to bring Spanish language to our elementary students and proud to be part of the IB Primary Years Program.

Ms. Torres is an experienced World Language teacher at the elementary level and has taught in the Eastchester and New York City school districts.  She holds multiple certifications in Childhood and Early Childhood Education, Bilingual Education, and Mathematics.  She received Bachelor's degrees in Bilingual Childhood Education and History, a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education from City College of New York, and a Master's degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from Hunter College.

Alexa Urra, English as a New Language

Harrison has a strong commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The emphasis on collaboration among staff and the community's dedication to student success are particularly exciting. 

Ms. Urra received a Bachelor’s degree in English and Elementary Education from Monmouth University and a Master's degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from Mount Saint Vincent University. She has worked as a permanent substitute and teaching assistant at Buchanan-Verplanck Elementary School.

Lindsey Velez, Elementary

It is amazing to be a part of a community where students and teachers are encouraged to learn about and appreciate each other’s differences.

Ms. Velez graduated from the University of Delaware with a Bachelor's degree in Education and Master's degree in Special Education. Her undergraduate studies focused on elementary teacher education and English as a second language. Ms. Velez joins the district with classroom experience at both the elementary and middle school levels.

Kelly Weiner, Special Education

I am so excited to watch students flourish and find new subjects they're passionate about…and to see students learn, grow and create relationships within the classroom and outside!

Ms. Weiner earned a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood and Childhood Education from SUNY Cortland and a Master's degree in Education and Special Education from Hofstra University.  She has worked in substitute and leave replacement positions, and most recently served as a special education teacher in an integrated co-teaching kindergarten classroom at Jefferson Elementary School in Norwalk, CT. 

Marissa Coulehan, World Languages

Harrison is a district that commits to teaching ALL students, regardless of means or background. It is my professional mission to promote excellence in early language learning through high quality language learning experiences for all students. I am thrilled to be "coming home" to Harrison.

Ms. Coulehan returns to Harrison in the World Language Department to share her expertise and commitment to early language learning.  She has deep experience as an elementary world language teacher, most recently teaching grades 2-5 in the Dobbs Ferry School District.  Ms. Coulehan also teaches courses on World Language instruction as an Adjunct Professor at Manhattanville College and Queens College, and has held leadership positions in several professional organizations.  She received a BS in Spanish and Secondary Education from the University of Maryland, MA in Teaching Early Childhood/Childhood Education from Manhattanville College, and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Computing from Stony Brook University.

Kelly Flaherty Fernandez, Elementary

I am very excited about the rigor and expectations that Harrison has set throughout the interview process and look forward to the continued conversations around academics, execution of lessons and professional growth.

Ms. Flaherty joins the Preston Elementary School faculty with experience as a general education and special education teacher in an integrated co-teaching classroom environment. She recently served as a Math Specialist at the Viola Elementary School in Suffern, NY.  Ms. Flaherty earned a Bachelor's degree in Childhood Education from SUNY Cortland and a Master's degree in Educational Technology from American College of Education.

Wendy Torres, World Languages

I am excited to bring Spanish language to our elementary students and proud to be part of the IB Primary Years Program.

Ms. Torres is an experienced World Language teacher at the elementary level and has taught in the Eastchester and New York City school districts.  She holds multiple certifications in Childhood and Early Childhood Education, Bilingual Education, and Mathematics.  She received Bachelor's degrees in Bilingual Childhood Education and History, a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education from City College of New York, and a Master's degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from Hunter College.

Steven Veteri, Physical Education

The district's focus on student growth and achievement, along with its diverse and inclusive culture, align with my educational philosophies and goals, making me eager to contribute to and grow within the Harrison school community.

Mr. Veteri earned a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education from SUNY Cortland, where he also was a member of the men’s lacrosse team.  He has served as a substitute and part-time teacher in Harrison, in addition to coaching Husky athletic teams at the modified, JV and Varsity levels. Mr. Veteri currently is an Assistant Coach for the Harrison High School Varsity Football and Boys Lacrosse teams.

Marissa Coulehan, World Languages

Harrison is a district that commits to teaching ALL students, regardless of means or background. It is my professional mission to promote excellence in early language learning through high quality language learning experiences for all students. I am thrilled to be "coming home" to Harrison.

Ms. Coulehan returns to Harrison in the World Language Department to share her expertise and commitment to early language learning.  She has deep experience as an elementary world language teacher, most recently teaching grades 2-5 in the Dobbs Ferry School District.  Ms. Coulehan also teaches courses on World Language instruction as an Adjunct Professor at Manhattanville College and Queens College, and has held leadership positions in several professional organizations.  She received a BS in Spanish and Secondary Education from the University of Maryland, MA in Teaching Early Childhood/Childhood Education from Manhattanville College, and an Advanced Graduate Certificate in Educational Computing from Stony Brook University.

Alessandra DeCicco, Elementary

Harrison fosters a collective learning culture that embodies the true practice of "it takes a village" and aims to elevate all members of its community. 

Ms. DeCicco joins the Purchase Elementary School faculty with experience teaching in the New York City and Byram Hills public schools. She is certified in Childhood Education Grades 1-6, earned a Bachelor's degree in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences from Hofstra University, and received a Master's degree in Childhood and Special Education from Manhattanville College.

Katherine Dooley, Elementary

I am excited to collaborate with colleagues and families to help our students reach their goals.  The professional community in Harrison is brilliant and I feel honored to be part of the team!

Ms. Dooley earned a Bachelor's degree in Elementary and Special Education from Providence College and Master's degree in Education and Literacy from Manhattanville College. She has worked in the New York City Public Schools as a general education, special education, and literacy teacher. Ms. Dooley holds multiple certifications in Childhood Education (Grades 1-6), Early Childhood Education (Birth-Grade 2), Students with Disabilities (Grades 1-6 & Birth-Grade 2), and Literacy (Birth-Grade 6).

Joseph English, Physical Education

It is exciting to join a strong community that takes pride in and supports students and student athletes in and outside of school.

Mr. English will teach Physical Education at Harrison Avenue and Preston Elementary Schools. He recently completed a leave replacement position as an elementary PE teacher in the Nanuet School District. Mr. English graduated with Magna Cum Laude honors with a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education K-12 from SUNY Cortland, where he also was named to the Dean’s and President’s Lists.

Kimberly Filardo, Special Education

While going through the interview process I became very excited to learn about the strong support system and community they've built…I could tell Harrison’s school environment was nurturing and organized for the students’ needs.

Ms. Filardo received a Bachelors of Fine Arts degree with a double major in Studio Art and Education, and a Master's degree in Childhood and Special Education from Manhattanville College.  She has taught special education and art in New York CIty public schools for the past seven years.  

Emma Finkelstein, Elementary

I believe in teaching the whole child in order to become inquirers, thinkers, and innovators in our community. I also believe in incorporating the strengths and needs of my students in my instruction to make learning more meaningful and accessible. Harrison's core values make me very eager to start the school year and begin building classroom community with my students and their families! 

Ms. Finkelstein earned a Bachelor's degree and Master's degree in Early Childhood and Childhood Education: STEM from Hofstra University and holds certifications in Early Childhood (Birth-Grade 2) and Childhood (Grades 1-6) Education.  She has worked in the Mahopac Central School District as a reading interventionist, substitute teacher and music/theater workshop teacher.

Lucas Stroud, Elementary 

It is exciting how integral personalizing and modifying instruction is in the district…I look forward to growing as a teacher and developing my pedagogy via the training programs Harrison offers.

Mr. Stroud earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Stony Brook University and a Master of Arts degree in Elementary Education from Queens College. He has worked as an early childhood and elementary level teacher, most recently as a general education teacher in an integrated co-teaching classroom in the New York City Public Schools.

Wendy Torres, World Languages

I am excited to bring Spanish language to our elementary students and proud to be part of the IB Primary Years Program.

Ms. Torres is an experienced World Language teacher at the elementary level and has taught in the Eastchester and New York City school districts.  She holds multiple certifications in Childhood and Early Childhood Education, Bilingual Education, and Mathematics.  She received Bachelor's degrees in Bilingual Childhood Education and History, a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education from City College of New York, and a Master's degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from Hunter College.

Steven Veteri, Physical Education

The district's focus on student growth and achievement, along with its diverse and inclusive culture, align with my educational philosophies and goals, making me eager to contribute to and grow within the Harrison school community.

Mr. Veteri earned a Bachelor's degree in Physical Education from SUNY Cortland, where he also was a member of the men’s lacrosse team.  He has served as a substitute and part-time teacher in Harrison, in addition to coaching Husky athletic teams at the modified, JV and Varsity levels. Mr. Veteri currently is an Assistant Coach for the Harrison High School Varsity Football and Boys Lacrosse teams.