This week, we are beginning a multi-part series introducing our new specialists and teachers to the Gaynor community. We asked a series of serious and (somewhat) silly questions to get to know them better. Ms. Bode is returning to Gaynor after three years away, Ms. Brock makes a mean banana bread, and Ms. Cohen is a storm chaser!
Anne Bode, Math Specialist
Tell us about yourself:
This is actually my 10th year at Stephen Gaynor! My first year was in 2005 as an assistant teacher in the old building, then I was a head teacher, and now I’m a Math Specialist. For the past three years, I was a Learning Specialist and 5th grade Math Teacher at Sacred Heart. I’m excited to be back at Gaynor this year, working with the Pink through Yellow Clusters. I have two degrees from Bank Street College of Education in Childhood Special Education and Leadership in Mathematics Education.
Favorites?
Food – Tomatoes
Restaurant – Sushi Suki (best on the UES with super fast delivery!)
Thing to do in NYC – Wander around the city and get lost in Central Park
Book – Wonder by RJ Palacio
Hobby – Organizing!
What was your favorite subject in school?
Obviously MATH! I love exploring multiple ways to solve the same problem.
What is your secret talent?
I know the words/tune to almost every song.
Yearbook Quote or Favorite Quote?
“Certain things they should stay the way they are. You ought to be able to stick them in one of those big glass cases and just leave them alone.” – JD Salinger from Catcher in the Rye (actual yearbook quote)
McKinley Brock, Math Specialist
Tell us about yourself:
I’m excited to join the Green, Silver and Gold clusters at Gaynor as a Math Learning Specialist and Co-Teacher. I was born and raised in Atlanta, GA and I have lived in New York for the past two years. I have previously worked as a Math Learning Specialist at Endeavor Middle School in Brooklyn, NY. I received my Mathematics degree and my Mathematics Education degree from the University of Georgia.
Favorites?
Food – Chicken Pot Pie
Restaurant – Canoe (ATL)
Thing to do in NYC – Going to the park with my three nephews
Book – Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry
Hobby – Piano
What was your favorite subject in school?
Math!
What is your secret talent?
I make the world’s best banana bread.
Yearbook Quote or Favorite Quote?
“When life is sweet, say thank you and celebrate. And when life is bitter, say thank you and grow.” – Shauna Niequist
Hallie Cohen, Reading Specialist
Tell us about yourself:
For a number of years, I have been searching for schools with highly innovative academic programs and an exceptional staff. My efforts took me to the Stephen Gaynor School in New York via Columbus Ohio. In the matter of a few weeks, I managed to pull up roots from Ohio and settle in Riverdale NY. Academically, I have degrees from Ithaca College, SUNY Binghamton, and certifications through the Ohio State University, IMSLEC, ALTA and IDA. I’ve been through a number of professional careers in my lifetime ranging from performing violinist, chamber music coach, orchestral director to finally becoming an elementary/ middle school reading specialist and certified Orton-Gillingham practitioner. What I discovered through all of these transitions is a true passion for how students learn and process information. I’m excited to be a reading coach for the Green Cluster and teach a group of Gold Cluster students. Please don’t hesitate to stop by room 502 to say hello.
Favorites?
Food – Chinese Food
Restaurant – Still searching
Thing to do in NYC – Hang out at coffee shops
Book – Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance By Robert M. Pirsig
Hobby – Lifelong learner (just don’t ask me to cook or knit)
What was your favorite subject in school?
Next to music and theater, I enjoyed studying dinosaurs and ancient Egypt.
What is your secret talent?
Being an annoying mom to my adult children. I also have the stamina to travel for hours, watching weather radar and chasing storms with my son through the Southern and Central Plains.