February Difference Makers Announced At Greenwich Public Schools

GREENWICH, CT — Greenwich Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones this week announced that 59 GPS employees have been named as "Difference Maker" award recipients for February 2025 as staff members who have made an overwhelming impact on the lives of others inside and outside of the town's public schools.

"Each and every month, I am grateful for the Greenwich families and staff members that take the time out of their busy schedule to give thanks to those that have made a difference in their lives and the lives of our children," Jones said in a news release. "The Difference Maker program not only recognizes our amazing staff, but it gives everyone a chance to say, ‘Thank you.’"

According to the school district, the GPS "Difference Maker" award is presented monthly to full or part-time employees who, through their unique commitment and humanitarian spirit, have made exceptional and lasting contributions to the GPS community through one life-changing event, extraordinary long-lasting efforts, or making a difference in the lives of others every single day.

Each building holds its individual celebrations to honor winners with certificate presentations and other recognitions.

GPS families, students, co-workers, or community members can nominate their difference maker online and is open to all employees of GPS, full or part time, in good standing. It excludes contractors or employees of other town agencies.

The February 2025 Difference Makers are as follows:

Greenwich High School

• Shirley Barban (chemistry teacher)
• Tracey Gorglione (science teacher)
• Aaron Hull (social studies teacher)
• Regina Miniutti (business teacher)
• Courtney Powers (social studies teacher)
• Kristina Remy (Special Education teacher)
• Katherine Upright (science teacher)

Central Middle School

• Nancy Tarantino (physical education teacher)

Eastern Middle School

• Kristopher O'Hara (head custodian)
• Ashley Shive (math teacher)
• Tina Wickstrom (school nurse)

Western Middle School

• Tara Flatz (English teacher)
• Leann Hinkle (art teacher)
• Tyler Mecozzi (science teacher)
• Yamuna Ramadas (math teacher)
• Joseph Urbano (professional assistant)
• Taryn Weiss (administrative assistant)

Cos Cob School

• Jasmine Bartlett (professional assistant)
• Juana Camargo (administrative assistant)
• Nancy Shwartz (media specialist)
• Kristen Steczkowski (administrative staff assistant)

Glenville School

• Alexa Bartlett (fifth grade teacher)
• Sarah Jarombek (Special Education teacher)

Hamilton Avenue School

• Anne Collin (music teacher)
• Diane C. Fox (principal)
• Coren Riccio (third grade teacher)
• Annamaria Simonelli (assistant principal)
• Kristin Yates (preschool teacher)

International School at Dundee

• Landa Brooks (food service worker)
• Erlinda Haviland (cook)

Julian Curtiss School

• Josephine Amodeo (building substitute)
• Eduardo Calderón (principal)
• Mahalia Ferguson (professional assistant)
• Courtney Harrison (first grade teacher)
• Esra Murray (media specialist)
• Anna Ripegno (IT support technician)

New Lebanon School

• Ana-Maria Fals (third grade teacher)
• Erin John (first grade teacher)

North Mianus School

• Elaina Chambrello (speech therapist)
• Robin Chenot (music teacher)

North Street School

• David Bruni (physical education teacher)
• Stephanie Nicoletti (first grade teacher)
• Sandra Senior (administrative assistant)
• Jeanine Urban (administrative assistant)

Old Greenwich School

• Lauren Harris (professional assistant)
• Megan Johnston (fifth grade teacher)
• Emily Naumann (fifth grade teacher)
• Bridget Pavarini (professional assistant)
• Kimberly Pearson (preschool teacher)
• Anna Speight (professional assistant)

Parkway School

• Andrea Seward (literacy specialist)
• Elizabeth Stunkel (administrative assistant)

Riverside School

• Ellen Gramlich (media assistant)

Central Office

• Dr. Fabian Agiurgioaei Boie (psychologist)
• Roger De Beradinis (inventory control worker)
• Dr. Sophia Morales (psychologist evaluation team)
• Bonnie O'Regan (ALP facilitator)
• Kristen Mulhearn* (social worker)
• Kimberly Paladino (K-8 ELA curriculum coordinator)

*Also works with the Windrose program