What is your favorite book? (children's or adult book)

Thank You Mr. Falker by Patricia Polacco

Who inspires you? Why?

My mom! I have always admired how determined and hardworking she is while always remaining joyful. She was also an ELA teacher :)

What made you decide to work in education?

I have always wanted to be a teacher since I was a little girl. I used to love playing "School" and setting my dolls up as my pretend students. Also, my 2nd-grade teacher, Mrs. Krute, had a huge impact on me. She always went above and beyond to make learning FUN, and I knew I wanted to be just like her someday.

What is the best thing about the PS65 community?

The best thing about the PS 65 community is that we are all "Dolphins." Dolphins are intelligent, kind, and joyful creatures. I could not think of a better mascot to represent our amazing students and staff!

What do you want our students to remember most about school?

I would like our students to remember the wonderful staff, who always pushed them to be the best version of themselves and encouraged them to be kind in this world. I also want them to remember the memories they made and the fun they had in elementary school.

What is it like having you for a teacher? Or, what is it like being in your class?

Mrs. Henriquez and I do our best to maintain a happy, calm, and inviting classroom with "Positive vibes only!", as we like to say. As a teacher, I have high expectations and a whole lot of love and compassion for all of my students. I think my 5th graders know they can come to me with anything and I will come up with a solution or give advice to guide them. Also, I try my best to compete with Ms. Scott down the hall for having high energy.. You just never know when I might burst into a song and/or dance in the middle of the classroom!

Gina DeBenedetto's profile