Takeaways from our 2024-2025 Associate Teacher Cohort
Each cohort of new Associate Teachers join our New Staff Orientation where they engage in professional development that dives into what makes Brooke different and focuses on pedagogical practices that are centered around student voice and identity.
We asked our 2024-2025 Associate Teacher Cohort about what their biggest takeaways were from New Teacher Orientation, and what they are looking forward to this year as they embark on this new journey as Associate Teachers.
What was your biggest takeaway from New Teacher Orientation?
Lesley Peguero Pena, Brooke East Boston: The focus on fostering a collaborative and supportive environment reinforced that our school community’s strength lies in our relationships and collective commitment to student success.
Jason Goodman, Brooke Roslindale: It was clear that Brooke believes great teachers matter, and that great teaching requires helping students feel both challenged and known. To push students to their highest potential, we must know them, make them feel loved, and hold them to high expectations for success at Brooke and beyond.
Alaina Vermilya, Brooke Roslindale: The foundation of great teaching is ensuring students are both challenged and known. When we know our students personally and push them to achieve at high levels, we can facilitate stronger learning and growth.
Dariel Hernandez, Brooke Mattapan: When teachers truly know their students while setting high standards, it shows their deep care and investment in their students’ success throughout the school year.
Meghan Moriarty, Brooke Mattapan: I learned about how to be an anti-racist educator, warm demander, and advocate for my students.
Dadrian Bernard, Brooke East Boston: Every decision should prioritize students’ best interests. The orientation emphasizes daily reflection on anti-racist teaching practices, urging teachers to continually evaluate and adjust their methods to better serve students.
Stephany Garcia Castillo, Brooke East Boston: I learned that you may not always see your impact as a teacher right away, but by seeing students as individuals and pushing them to do their best, you’re doing your best. I also realized the importance of recognizing students’ identities and creating an inclusive classroom culture.
Emilie Volmar, Brooke Roslindale: Brooke Charter Schools prioritize creating a safe, inclusive environment while holding students to high expectations, always assuming the best of them. Additionally, I love the emphasis on “great teachers are made, not born”; we must pour into one another!
Lizmariely Figueroa, Brooke Roslindale: I learned the importance of a safe classroom and open, respectful communication with colleagues. Brooke’s commitment to valuing communication with students, families, and colleagues made me feel safe and excited to share my thoughts.
Tara Kan, Brooke East Boston: As teachers, being a warm demander is crucial. We need to set and vocalize high expectations while also showing warmth and joy to ensure students feel loved, comfortable, and safe in our classrooms.
Kenyada Haye, Brooke Roslindale: New Teacher Orientation challenged me academically and personally, pushing me to confront my assumptions on race and identity while highlighting the importance of creating a safe space for others. As a woman of color, I’ve never felt more seen, heard, or represented.
Marishcha Fils-Aime, Brooke High School: As a Brooke alum, I saw my teachers be warm demanders and teach with passion, but I couldn’t put it into words. Four years later, I now have the chance to be that same warm demander for other students.
What are you looking forward to this year?
Tara Kan, Brooke East Boston: I look forward to gaining classroom experience, building relationships with Brooke scholars, learning from lead teachers, and finding my teacher voice.
Stephany Garcia Castillo, Brooke East Boston: I’m excited to gain in-class teaching experience while receiving constructive feedback and exploring different classrooms and grade levels.
Alaina Vermilya, Brooke Roslindale: I’m excited to learn from my mentor and other teachers through observations and feedback, and to challenge students to reach new heights and see their progress.
Jason Goodman, Brooke Roslindale: I look forward to developing my teaching confidence, leadership skills, and ability to teach independently, while getting to know each student at Brooke.
Dadrian Bernard, Brooke East Boston: As an Associate Teacher, I’m excited to enhance my skills and develop strong teaching abilities. I look forward to embracing daily challenges and making a meaningful impact on my students’ learning.
Nicole Pimentel, Brooke Mattapan: I hope to learn from my mentor, students, and the Brooke community, transforming my teaching philosophy to create an inclusive and engaging classroom.
Meghan Moriarty, Brooke Mattapan: I’m excited to build relationships with students, families, my team, and to learn from my mentor and other teachers.
Marishcha Fils-Aime, Brooke High School: I am eager to connect with students, show my passion for their education, and push them to be their best selves, just as my teachers did for me.