Making in School
Cohort Members
Lori Stahl-Van Brackle
Instructional Technology Director
with support from Yuet Chu
Why did you choose a career in education?
I worked in publishing for 10 years and enjoyed the work but everything I did, from Web design to copy editing I thought would be useful in a classroom. I finally realized that was where I needed to be. I spent 13 years in the classroom, first as an 8th grade Literacy teacher and then as a Computer teacher. I moved to the MFSC because I wanted to help bring Making to other classrooms across Manhattan and New York City.
What hobbies or other interests have your brought to your classroom?
I've always loved playing games and making things. I enjoyed challenges that I had to learn things to solve problems like Web design. I brought everything I enjoyed about that into the classroom.
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How do you plan on bringing Making to your students this year?
This year I plan on supporting teachers through the MFSC Maker Educator Cohort and through professional learning opportunities. In helping teachers embrace their inner Maker I will help students.
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The Manhattan Field Support Center offers support to the 250 public schools in Manhattan in Districts, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. In SY 2016/2017 the MFSC hosted several Maker events called Make-a-thons throughout Manhattan for various members of our community. Making school Web sites, curriculum, informed decisions are all part of what the MFSC does for Manhattan students.
Evelyn Burgos
Mandated Counseling Compliance Coordinator
Why did you choose a career in education?
It's an opportunity to work with people and make a difference in children's lives.
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Diana Tancer
Teaching and Learning/Instructional Lead
Why did you choose a career in education?
I love learning and education is a profession that offers continued learning opportunities.
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Pat Werner
Teaching and Learning/Instructional Lead
Why did you choose a career in education?
Hoping to make a difference in my corner of the world. I believe in students owning their learning and Making provides opportunities for kids to explore and create and make a contribution.
Heather Cabrera
Academic Policy, Systems, Performance and Assessment Lead
Why did you choose a career in education?
I was able to combine my passion for science and the outdoors with my work with students in a meaningful way.
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Melida Arias
Related Services Compliance Associate
Why did you choose a career in education?
It is meaningful work.
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Ann Nichols
Teaching and Learning/Instructional Lead
Why did you choose a career in education?
To provide equal access and equal opportunity by providing the tools that students need to be their best in life. Supporting the makers has given me access to their creativity and allows me to perk up my own.
Charles McEvoy
Office of Special Education
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Why did you choose a career in education?
I remember the first time students with disabilities came to the public schools. I was in HS and we had a new class for deaf students. I was intrigued. I learned sign language from them and began to interpret.
