Our Latest

  • Blog
  • Spotlight: Amid Covid-19 Pathways Fellow Steps Up to Help Others

Spotlight: Amid Covid-19 Pathways Fellow Steps Up to Help Others

April 7, 2020

Jennifer Friedlin

Jonas Casimir is always in search of a new challenge. Already equipped with an MBA and a job"" as a Department of Education community coordinator for students in temporary housing, Jonas joined the Pathways Fellowship last year in the hopes of transitioning to a career in teaching.

As part of the fellowship, Jonas was enjoying a practicum as an educator with New York Edge, teaching STEM in elementary afterschool at Community School 134 in the Bronx.

COVID-19 may have added additional challenges but it has not put a damper on Jonas’ enthusiasm to help, commitment to learn, and aspiration to become a teacher. In the wake of the crisis, Jonas is continuing to serve as both a community coordinator for students in temporary housing and as an afterschool educator.

“I wanted to be in a position to help people in times like this,” Jonas said. “I’m providing a lot of support for families, and it makes me feel like I’m supposed to be here.”

Although he has to maintain physical distance, Jonas has been communicating with families to let them know that laptops and tablets are available and to help them to fill out request forms. He has also connected more than 600 families with food banks.

Now that remote learning systems are in place, Jonas is also attending New York Edge’s online trainings and preparing to start teaching students in virtual afterschool.

“This is going to be a cool experience,” Jonas said. “I would’ve never thought I would be in this position to be able to lead a virtual training.”

In particular, Jonas is looking forward to leading STEM activities, a role he says he is ready for, thanks to his Pathways fellowship.

“Pathways taught me how to engage the group, get everyone involved, and ask good questions,” Jonas says. “I think differently now. I like to push kids to think past what they’re not usually interested in.”

Looking ahead to the day when the crisis is over, Jonas says he wants to continue teaching STEM. His next goal: to enter the Lehman Urban Transformational Education-Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics program funded by the U.S. Department of Education to prepare and support teachers in high need schools in the Bronx.

Share on social media:

Questions?

RAFAEL RIVAS
Communications Director

CONTACT US

Connect

11 West 42nd Street, 3rd Floor
New York, NY 10036
t 646.943.8700
e [email protected]

Keep me informed
SUBSCRIBE NOW
Instagram Linkedin Facebook Youtube Bluesky Streamline Icon: https://streamlinehq.comBluesky

Privacy Policy © 2024, ExpandED Schools

Marleny Polanco

Program Manager, Comprehensive Program Support Team

Marleny Polanco has been with ExpandED Schools for over two years, overseeing literacy programs in the Bronx and Manhattan. With more than 17 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Marleny brings a wealth of knowledge and dedication to her role.

Known for her meticulous attention to detail and sweet demeanor, Marleny is deeply committed to supporting educators and fostering student success. Her thoughtful approach ensures that literacy initiatives are implemented with care and precision, creating meaningful and lasting impacts in the schools she serves.

Allison Philippin

Program Manager, Comprehensive Program Support Team

Allison Philippin has been a vibrant and dedicated member of the ExpandED Schools team for over three years. She oversees literacy programs in schools across Brooklyn, bringing her energetic and bubbly personality to every interaction.

Allison is passionate about cultivating strong relationships with educators and school communities, consistently pushing for greatness in literacy education. Her enthusiasm and commitment inspire those around her to strive for excellence, ensuring students and educators alike have the support they need to thrive.

Noel Morales

Program Manager, Comprehensive Program Support Team

Noel Morales has been an integral part of the ExpandED Schools team for over three years, bringing his expertise and dedication to literacy education. He oversees literacy programs in schools across the Bronx, supporting educators in creating dynamic and impactful learning environments for their students.

Passionate about equity and access in education, Noel is committed to helping schools implement innovative literacy strategies that inspire a love for learning. His collaborative approach ensures that both teachers, literacy educators, and students have the resources and support needed to succeed.

Alex De La Cruz

Senior Program Manager, Comprehensive Program Support Team

Alex De La Cruz has been a dedicated member of the ExpandED Schools team for over five years, specializing in literacy program support. As a senior team member, Alex oversees literacy initiatives in schools across Brooklyn and Queens, working closely with educators to foster impactful and engaging learning experiences for students.

With a deep commitment to education, Alex focuses on building strong, supportive relationships with schools and empowering literacy educators to achieve their goals. His work reflects a passion for ensuring that every student has access to the tools they need to thrive academically and creatively.

Inayah Ansari

Program Manager, Comprehensive Program Support Team

Inayah Ansari is a seasoned professional with more than a decade of experience in youth development. Throughout her career, she has focused on creating impactful programs and content, particularly in the areas of Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) and goal development. In addition to her expertise in program development, she has also supervised and coached teams, as well as collaborated with community-based organizations (CBOs) to enhance their efforts in supporting young people.

Inayah’s deep passion for reading books fuels her dedication to her work, especially in her current role with Lit C.R.E.W. She is committed to helping children unlock the joy of reading, believing it can open up a world of possibilities and learning for young minds. Her mission is to inspire and guide children in discovering the wonderful world of books, fostering a love of reading that will benefit them for a lifetime.

Tiffany Perry

Program Director of Lit C.R.E.W., Comprehensive Program Support Team

Tiffany Perry brings over 15 years of experience in education and a decade in the nonprofit sector to her role as Director of Lit C.R.E.W. at ExpandED Schools. She oversees programming in more than 15 schools across New York City, championing innovative literacy initiatives that inspire both educators and students.

A passionate advocate for literacy and creativity, Tiffany is dedicated to empowering young learners to unlock their potential through engaging and meaningful educational experiences. Her work is driven by a deep belief in the transformative power of reading and its ability to connect, inform, and inspire the next generation.