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Our Educators

Our Educators

Meet our wonderful educators!  

Our staff challenges our students to grow not only as learners but also as members of the community. The faculty possess the expertise, energy and engagement needed to deliver a quality BCCHS education. 

Administration

Ms. Perez

Alicia Perez-Katz

Principal

I have been a teacher for 22 years, with 21 of those years at Baruch. My hometown is Ridgewood, NJ, but I grew up as an expatriate (Ecuador, South Korea, Brazil) and have lived the last 20 years in Brooklyn, NY. My favorite hobbies are writing and cycling. My favorite book is 100 Years of Solitude by Gabriel Garcia Marquez. Favorite food: Vaca Frita and maduros. I love being an educator because of the connections you make with your community. I love Baruch because we are a tight-knit community and everyone is known!

Mr. Keijzer

Douglas Keijzer

Assistant Principal

I started my career in 2004 as a Middle School special education teacher. I joined Baruch CCHS in 2015 as a tenth grade special education teacher. I appreciate working in a school community like Baruch because virtually every student and teacher knows one another. I live in the city with my wife, daughter and son. I enjoy reading classic literature and history in my quiet free time. I also enjoy board sports like surfing, skateboarding and snowboarding.

Diana Di Rico

Assistant Principal and Athletic Director

I am proud to work at BCCHS, where students become lifelong learners equipped for success and empowered to think, question, and make change. I began teaching in an imitation classroom in the boiler room of my childhood home, lining up folding chairs to teach my stuffed-animal students. Twenty years ago, I was thrilled when this imaginary world came to life as a Literature teacher here at Baruch HS. Since 2002, I have served in a variety of roles, such as teaching Global Literature, facilitating poetry slams, organizing social justice and equity initiatives, mentoring teachers, and leading the school’s sports programs as PSAL Athletic Director. I have an undergraduate degree in History and Italian from Fordham University, a MA in English Education from New York University, and a MS in Educational Administration from Baruch College. 2022 will be my first year as Assistant Principal; my goal is to serve the students, families, and staff more profoundly.  I live in Rockville Centre with my inspiring husband, Luis, an ADA in NYC, and two adorable, spirited boys, Oscar and Luca. In my free time, I love to read, travel, cook, practice yoga, and be with the people I love. 

English

Ms. Castana

Carolyn Castagna

9th and 10th Grade English Teacher

I grew up in Queens but now live in Jersey City.  I love to run, cook (and eat!), read, read to my kids, and cuddle with my dog, Judy.  I have been teaching for 14 years, 8 of those at Baruch.  I enjoy teaching because I love literature and language, and I get to share that with my students.  Nothing makes me happier than when I give a student a book and they tell me they loved reading it!

Darius Lewis

9th and 10th Grade English Teacher

Hi guys! My name is Darius Lewis, I am a first-year English teacher and I’m very excited to join the BCCHS family! I’m also a filmmaker and writer, and I love to incorporate as much creativity and out of the box thinking into my classroom as much as possible. I love creating things, especially with other people. When we see each other, my little brother and I will make stop motion animation videos together (he uses his action figures as different characters and it’s actually pretty funny). I try to incorporate my love of languages, culture, film, and literature in order to spark the same excitement for reading in my students as I have. In college I minored in Japanese, because I’m an anime nerd. If there are any fellow anime nerds out there, then I welcome them with open arms! I hope you guys are ready to have as much fun learning this year as I am!

John Downes-Angus

11th and 12th Grade English Teacher

I’ll be starting my ninth year as a New York City English teacher this year. Before coming to Baruch, I taught English for eight years at a small school in East Flatbush, Brooklyn. I came to teaching after working in book publishing by enrolling in the New York City Teaching Fellows program, and I haven’t looked back since—the work of teaching has become inextricably linked with how I see myself and my role in the world. I feel very fortunate to have a job in which my daily work entails figuring out how we can use discussion, writing, and reading to approach life’s most urgent questions; schools are fundamentally ecosystems of human self-discovery and growth—it doesn’t get much better than that.

I live in Jersey City with my wife, Elizabeth, and my cat, Dorothy. When I’m not planning for my classes, you can find me running, reading, cooking, or sharpening my skills as a competitive pinball player.

Ms. Ross

Rita Ross

11th and 12th Grade English Teacher; School Librarian

I have been teaching for 16 years. I love reading novels and non-fiction, practicing yoga, baking gluten-free treats, and bike riding with my children. I love Baruch for its warmth, welcoming classrooms, love of ideas and learning, and its proximity to Gregory’s, whose green tea is the best.

If you would like to help buy books/supplies from my Classroom Wish List: https://bit.ly/BCCHSross

Math

Ms. Benowitz

Amanda Benowitz

9th and 10th Grade Math Teacher
I attended Cornell University for my undergraduate degree, where I majored in Biometry and Statistics and minored in both Math and Education. I then attended Teachers’ College, Columbia University for my graduate degree to receive a masters in Secondary Math Education. I love to dance, go to the beach, and spend time outside. My favorite movies are The Parent Trap and Mama Mia. I enjoy teaching at Baruch because of its welcoming community; it truly feels like a family, where all of the students form relationships with each other, their teachers, and the administration.

Gloria Cao

9th and 10th Grade Math Teacher

For my undergraduate degree, I majored in Actuarial Science and minored in Biochemistry. I then attended Teachers’ College, Columbia University for my graduate degree in Secondary Math Education. I love to travel, bake, and go on food adventures with my friends. I am very excited to be working at Baruch because of the welcoming and loving community. I can’t wait to meet all my students and share my passion for math with them!

Ms. Forman

Jocelyn Forman

11th and 12th Grade Math Teacher

I am finishing my 3rd year as a teacher (3rd year at Baruch). I am from Newton, Massachusetts. I love to paint, my favorite book is The Help, favorite movie is the Parent Trap, and favorite food is Shakshuka. I have wanted to be a teacher since I was in the 6th grade (so thank you all for letting me live my dream!). I love getting to know my students and trying to convince you all that math is cool and FUN!

Simon Lu

11th and 12th Grade Math Teacher

Science

Angela Oldenburg

9th and 10th Grade Science Teacher

I am a born and raised New Yorker. Growing up, I always had a life goal to become the next Indiana Jones. This led me to pursue a BA in Anthropology from Adelphi University, with a specialized focus in forensic anthropology (like the show Bones!), and an MS in Environmental Studies. I started my career as a forensic technician and environmental scientist. Wanting to share my love of science and our beautiful planet, I went back to school and received my MAT in Science Education from Queens College in 2013. Some of my favorite things besides teaching include reading books (Harry Potter!), cycling, and collecting rocks. BCCHS is so much more than a school – it is truly a second home full of family and friends, love and support. I am beyond grateful to be part of this community of amazing students and educators.

Ms. Grey

Ashley Grey

9th and 10th Grade Science Teacher

Hi! I’m an Earth Science/AP Environmental Science teacher at Baruch College Campus High School. This is my fourth year of teaching and second year at Baruch. I was born and raised in Astoria, Queens, and as a student, I saw a lot of educational inequity in the school system. This experience ultimately led me into teaching and sharing my passion for science. I love working at Baruch and immediately felt welcomed into the community. When I’m not teaching or working on lessons, I like to run and spend time outdoors. (Favorite Book: Born a Crime by Trevor Noah; Favorite Movie: Erin Brockovich; Favorite Drink: Taro Bubble Tea!)

Ceren Kilic-Gonul

11th and 12th Grade Science Teacher

Hi, my name is Ceren Kilic-Gonul. I’m originally from Istanbul, Turkey, currently living in New Jersey! I moved to the United States when I was 18 years old to attend CUNY Queens College with an athletic scholarship. I’m a Chemistry teacher who is highly passionate about teaching science. I chose to be in education because I enjoy seeing my students realize their true potential. I love traveling, trying out different cuisines, and spending time with my family and friends. I’m very excited to be working at BCCHS and feel honored to be part of the BCCHS family. 

Sam Zimmerman

11th and 12th Grade Science Teacher

I’ve been teaching physics at Baruch since 1999. I earned my Master’s in Physics Education and my Bachelor’s in English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University. I love teaching at Baruch because the students and staff are amazing, hardworking people who never cease to impress me.

Social Studies

Deborah Glick

9th and 10th Grade Social Studies Teacher

​​Hi! I am so excited to join the Baruch community as a Social Studies Teacher. I grew up right outside of Manhattan on Long Island. I studied Development Sociology at Cornell University and received my Master’s in Social Studies Education at Teachers College. I think social studies classrooms are spaces where we can learn more about the world and ourselves, and how to use our voices to advocate for change. Outside of the classroom, I love to read, rewatch my favorite shows, spend time outside, play with my dog, and explore different restaurants in the city (let me know if you have recs!).

Anthony Segreti

9th and 10th Grade Social Studies Teacher

Hello! I’m Anthony and I was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As a child, I was enamored with dinosaur fossils and geology, and as I grew older, my interests shifted to social studies and human history. I went on to earn degrees in History and Secondary Education from the University of Pittsburgh and began my teaching career in 2010.

I believe that it is vital for students to develop the ability to be lifelong learners and advocates of social justice, and I take pride in being part of their discovery process. I’m very excited to join the BCCHS community where I can both learn and contribute!

When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my wife, reading, staying active, and sharpening my culinary skills in the kitchen.

John Jacobs

11th and 12th Grade Social Studies Teacher

Art

Ms. Hawrylewicz

Aneta Hawrylewicz

9th and 10th Grade Art Teacher

Spanish

Lori Nardacci

Spanish

I’m from Rhode Island. I began teaching Spanish in 2006 in Massachusetts. Before coming to Baruch, I taught English in Quito, Ecuador for two and a half years. I have been teaching at Baruch for 8 years. I love traveling, especially around Latin America! I enjoy learning about other cultures and trying new foods. I never miss an opportunity to dance salsa, merengue, or bachata. I enjoy sharing my passion for Spanish and the cultures of the Spanish speaking world with students. I feel very fortunate to teach at Baruch with so many passionate and talented teachers. My colleagues and students inspire me every day!

Clara Muñoz

Spanish

Maria Garcia

Spanish

Guidance

Stephanie Smith

GUIDANCE 9th/10th

Julie Ougheltree

Guidance 11th/12th; College Counselor
Ms. Phillips

Bonnie Phillips

Director of College Office

I have been a counselor for 24 years.  I have worked at Baruch for 20 years. I am from London. I love art, the book, Jude the Obscure, the movie, Daughters of the Dust, and my favorite food is Sushi! I love working to help others to be their best selves!

Barbara Ray

Bilingual Guidance Counselor

Nicole Epstein

12th grade counselor

I obtained my Bachelor’s degree at the University of Maryland and my Master’s in School Counseling at CUNY Hunter College! While at Hunter, I was fortunate enough to intern with the College Office for 2 years. I am now excited to be returning back to Baruch full-time to continue my work with this incredible community! I love helping students prepare for the next chapter of their lives and being an impact on that journey. Outside of school, you can find me cheering on the NY Knicks, spending time with family and friends, watching reality TV, and exploring the amazing restaurants and workout classes the city has to offer!

Laura Kaplan

Social Worker

Physical Education

Tedi Schaffer

Physical Education and Health Teacher

Mike Breman

Physical Education

I have been a teacher at Baruch for 8 years. I have coached Soccer here for 7 years, wrestling for 8 years and Baseball for 5 years. Baruch is a special place with great staff, parents, and students.

Main Office

Ms. Kei

Carol Kei-Jiang

Finance

Shannon Chen

School Nurse

Liz Grove

Parent Coordinator

Email:lgrove@schools.nyc.gov

Telephone:212-683-7440 ext 3081

9/10 Special Education

Tazia Whitfield

9/10 ELA

My name is Tazia Whitfield, and I am excited to join BCCHS this school year. I am from Queens, and this will be my 8th year teaching. My favorite part of teaching is building relationships with students and supporting them in meeting their goals. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy traveling, reading realistic fiction, cooking new recipes, collecting sneakers, and spending time with my family.

Katherine Vargas

9/10 Social Studies

Haley Hunter

9/10 Science

Hello! My name is Haley Hunter and I am excited to be joining the BCCHS community! I will be teaching ICT Biology, AP BIology, and AP Environmental Science this year. I am originally from North Carolina, but have been calling NYC home for the past four and a half years. I studied Exercise Science for my undergraduate degree at University of North Carolina at Wilmington, and I am currently finishing up my final year in graduate school at Hunter College. When I am not studying or working, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, going to a yoga class, or taking a trip to the beach. I can’t wait to meet my students and start the school year here at BCCHS!

“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.”- Aristotle

Michelle Mistretta

9/10 Math

I am originally from Montvale, New Jersey.  I was a Math major in college and worked in Finance before becoming a Teacher.  I have been a teacher for 5 years, 4 of which have been at Baruch.  I love that we are a small and supportive community!  The students at Baruch make teaching fun and rewarding experience. 

11/12 Special Education

Emily Lazar

11/12 ELA

My name is Emily Lazar and I use she/her pronouns. I am coming to Baruch from Middle School 322 in Washington Heights where I taught all subjects and grades throughout my five years at the school, as well as coached soccer and poetry through America Scores. I am originally from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania and studied fine arts, literature, and philosophy in Philadelphia prior to exploring 46 of our 50 states. I moved to NYC in 2011 and have enjoyed biking throughout the city and sharing my love of cycling through teaching with Bike New York. I am thrilled to join Baruch Campus this year and work with young people to access and share their knowledge of self through historical and cultural context. 

Jennifer Gumina

11/12 Social Studies

I grew up in Detroit, Michigan, and explored several different career paths before deciding to become a special education teacher. In Detroit, I taught at a high school for students with emotional impairments and trauma for two years. I co-taught various humanities courses at a high school in Hell’s Kitchen for 7 years before coming to Baruch, where I’ve been since 2017. I love teaching because it is never boring, and being around young people keeps me feeling young at heart! It is a satisfying career on both a personal and professional level. I enjoy the community feel of Baruch and being surrounded by so many ambitious people. Summer is my favorite season because I love the hot weather, going to the beach, and traveling.

Dawn Shum

11/12 Science

Zachariah Davis

11/12 ELA

Special Education

Darlene Phillips

Family Worker
Ms. Lamb

Joanna Lamb

Speech Pathologist

I have been working for the DOE since 2010 and have been at BCCHS since 2016. I got my master’s in speech-language pathology from Adelphi University. A lover of theater, I also hold a BFA in Drama from NYU and run the Drama Club here at Baruch. When not working, I love listening to podcasts, doing The NY Times Crossword puzzle, seeing movies and plays, and am currently learning to play the piano.

Yaacov Danzinger

School Psychologist

Information Technology

Ahmed Arabi

CUNY Technology Intern

Jerson Yang

School Technology Specialist

Administrative Support

Alexus McEachin

School Aide

David Sanchez

School Aide

Nora Elsayed

School Aide

Instructional Support

Marc Harper

Substitute Teacher

Paul Salamone

Substitute Teacher

Safety

Tyra Shields

School Safety Agent

Max

SCHOOL SAFETY AGENT

Custodial

John Carlone

Custodial Engineer

Eric Rodriguez

Custodial Worker

Jose Valdez

Custodial Worker