Schools

March 'Difference Makers 2.0' Announced By Greenwich Public Schools

Difference Maker award recipients are staff members who have made a big impact on the lives of others inside and outside of the classroom.

GREENWICH, CT — Greenwich Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones this week revealed the March honorees for "Difference Makers 2.0."

Difference Maker award recipients are staff members who have made an overwhelming impact on the lives of others inside and outside of GPS classrooms.

This year, the school district is honoring one from each school and one from each district department that are considered
"unsung heroes."

Find out what's happening in Greenwichfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

The 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.

Honorees are officially nominated by principals and district senior leadership.

Find out what's happening in Greenwichfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

2025-2026 Difference Makers 2.0, March 2026

  • Robert Adams, building substitute, North Mianus
  • Nicholas Bria, head custodian, Hamilton Avenue
  • Deirdre Burke, physical ed teacher, Greenwich HS
  • Deborah Byxbee, cafeteria monitor, North Street
  • Phil Chew, math teacher, Greenwich High/Windrose
  • Donna Conway, second grade teacher, Glenville
  • Monica Criollo, cook, Eastern MS
  • Patrick Heaton, math intervention spec, Western MS
  • Catherine Isidori, food service worker, Julian Curtiss
  • Amanda Kocot, fifth grade teacher, Old Greenwich
  • Emily Lentz, library media specialist, Central MS
  • Rocio Obando, food service worker, New Lebanon
  • Dorin Pamint, interim lead custodian, Central Office
  • Manuel Rivas, custodian, Central MS
  • Angela Romeo, cook, Riverside
  • Francesco Toscano, building substitute, Cos Cob
  • Brittney Veniga, administrative staff ast, IS at Dundee
  • Jessica Wieneke, sup. of health nurses, Central Office
  • Tracy Zeranski, cafeteria monitor, Parkway

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