Guidance Counselor
Nurse
Name: Ms. Jamie Goldstein
Position: Guidance Counselor
Hometown: I grew up in Dix Hills, Long Island, but now I live in Manhattan.
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Arts & Elementary Education from University of Michigan and a Master’s Degree in School Counseling from Alfred University
Years as an educator: 17
Why are you an educator? I love kids. I want to develop and guide our future.
What are STAR Academy’s best qualities? I think we have a strong community that is safe and supportive for everybody. I think we go out of our way to support every type of learner to make them successful as students.
Life outside school: I love dancing and taking dance and other kinds of workout classes. I like to spend time with my friends and family. We do all kinds of activities, like bowling, seeing movies and exploring New York City.
English as a New Language
Name: Ms. Sarah Whitney
Position: School Nurse
Hometown: I was born in Alaska and grew up in Missouri. I now live all the way uptown in Manhattan.
Education: Bachelor’s Degrees in biology from Washington University in St. Louis and Nursing from Columbia University
Years in education: 10
Why are you in education? I love working with children. I’m passionate about keeping kids healthy and safe in school.
What are STAR Academy’s best qualities? I feel like all the staff care about and love the kids.
Life outside school: I like travelling the world. I bike sometimes to work (13 miles each way). I read A LOT. And, I enjoy hiking.
School Secretary
Name: Mr. Martin Perl
Position: English as a New Language (ENL) and Reading Recovery teacher, Testing Coordinator
Hometown: Born in NYC and raised in New Jersey.
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts from Penn State and Master’s Degrees in Media from The New School University and Education from Fordham University
Years as an educator: 21
Why are you an educator? I’m a teacher because it’s a joy to help students learn.
What are STAR Academy’s best qualities? Collegiality is one of our best qualities. We have a passionate staff that cares deeply about student success.
Life outside school: I love worldwide travel.