3rd ICT & General Ed.
Name: Ms. Kimberly Tucker
Position: Teacher, 3rd Grade Team, General Ed.
Hometown: I grew up in Topeka, Kansas, and I now live in Astoria, Queens.
Education: Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from MidAmerica Nazarene University. Master’s degree in Language and Literacy from University of Missouri Kansas City.
Years as an educator: 10
Why are you an educator? I love helping students discover a true love and connection between reading and writing. I also value the relationships with my students, and how trust and vulnerability can create more enriching opportunities to learn and grow.
What are STAR Academy’s best qualities? STAR Academy is a small, inclusive environment where authentic teaching and collaborating takes place. The families and the community are very welcoming!
Life outside school: I love playing recreational sports, game nights, and exploring areas around New York. I also enjoy watching NBA and college basketball (Rock Chalk Jayhawk, go KU)!
Name: Ms. Audrey Trail
Position: Teacher, 3rd Grade Team, Special Ed.
Hometown: I grew up in Jamaica, West Indies. It is the 3rd largest island in the Caribbean. My family and I live right near the sea across from Port Royal and Spanish Town. Now I live in Red Hook, Brooklyn.
Education: Bachelor's Degree from Queens College and Master’s Degree in Elementary Education 1-6. Additional degree in Special Education 1-6 from Queens College/Hunter College.
Years as an educator: 13
Why are you an educator? I have always had a drive to make a difference in the lives of our young leaders. I live by the motto “It takes a village.” As a young child my teachers helped inspire me to look beyond the walls of my classroom to the world beyond and past my neighborhood through reading. I believe each child is unique and are far from blank slates no matter their age. I am honored to be one of the support systems that helps them on their journey through life.
What are STAR Academy’s best qualities? STAR Academy is rooted in community. The staff, teachers, and administration work with one purpose, which is to inspire confidence in our students through immersed sensory experiences that leads to independence, responsibility and success.
Life outside school: I love spending time with my family in the great outdoors. We bike ride, hike and go on long road trips.
Name: Ms. Ariel Leist
Position: Teacher, 3rd Grade Team, General Ed.
Hometown: I grew up on Long Island and now I live in the City.
Education: Bachelor's Degree in Child Family Studies and Nutrition from Syracuse University and Master’s Degree in General and Special Education from Fordham University
Years as an educator: 8
Why are you an educator? I always loved children and helping people. I wanted to teach because I want to be there for the children and make a positive impact in and out of the classroom.
What are STAR Academy’s best qualities? I choose Star Academy because of its amazing sense of community, and so I can grow as an educator because Star Academy provides great support.
Life outside school: Outside of work I love to hang with my family and friends. Family means everything to me. I love to go to concerts, movies, out for dinner, and do fun activities around the city!