It’s Teacher Appreciation Week! How do Prep students appreciate their teachers? Here are the comments they left on our survey for 2025-26:

Cafeteria staff:

“I wanna say thank you to Miss Aracelys Matos, Miss Wendy Rojas, Miss Raisny Rosario Brito, Miss Lorenza Amarante Caraballo, and to Miss Faye Wilson. You guys deserve the most appreciation for even just feeding us after a long day of school. Sweetest and coolest lunch ladies!”

Mr. Alessi, Legal Studies:

“Your explanations to vocabulary, the court system, laws, and really everything in your class are well spoken and comprehensive. I like the fact that you write a new word every day because I like learning of new words and expanding my dictionary. I also enjoy the side conversation of what is happening in our current world that you talk about because sometimes I learn stuff I didn’t know before that seem important to know.”

“He’s the heart of the Criminal Justice Pathway and does so much more than just talk about laws he actually gets us ready for life. He’s a one of one teacher who can keep things serious when they need to be, but still be a real person who makes sure everyone feels heard. He doesn’t just read from a book, he gives it to us directly and shows us that being a good person is just as important as knowing the rules. Whether he’s sharing real stories or just asking how we’re doing, you can tell he actually cares about us. Thanks for always keeping it real and pushing us to be our best.”

Ms. Breskic, ESL:

“Thank you, Ms. Breskic, for being such an encouraging and impactful teacher throughout this school year. You’re such an amazing ELA teacher so thank you so much!”

Ms. Burgos, Music Tech: 

“Ms. Burgos one of the best teachers I’ve had!”

“To one of my favorite teachers Ms. Burgos. Thank you so much for being patient with me. Thank you for teaching me so much about beats, mixing etc. I really enjoyed your class. You rock!”

“I’m very passionate when it comes to making music and these beats I’m learning how to make helps me out a whole lot. Thank you to Ms. Burgos for being such an amazing teacher.”

“She is always cheerful and nice, and she actively engages with the class to keep us all involved. She provides excellent feedback, helps us with any questions we have, and always has good jokes to share.”

“Ms. Burgos is a very kind and creative teacher! She let me love music even more by doing fun music composition projects and writing songs, which I liked. I even sang one of those songs. I really enjoyed being in this pathway!!!”

Mr. Coco, English:

“Thanks for being a fun teacher.”

“Thank you for not just teaching the curriculum, but for teaching me how to think critically and trust my own voice.”

Mr. Contaldi, Social Studies:

“One of if not the most chill teacher because he will let you fool around a little bit if you do your work.”

“Shout out to him for being such a chill talkative teacher when you’re not annoying him and being able to talk to him and still get my work done.”

“You are the funniest, best teacher ever. I like how you are always positive and always laughing while making jokes.”

“Thank you for being my only fun teacher. Continue being yourself.”

Ms. Crocco, Social Studies:

“History is not my strong suit, but in your class, I find your explanation and way of teaching to be helpful. Not only your teaching, but you go out of your way to, occasionally, treat the class with some candy, that is thoughtful of you. Also, in order to help us, you create games so that we can get serious about learning when things get competitive. These games are really fun and I learn while also enjoying the game.”

“Thank you Ms. Crocco for teaching me APUSH 1. Just having your class 1st period is already so amazing and you taught me so much and I just love your class.”

“Thank you for the reviews you do every Monday, so I can prepare properly for the AP exams.”

Ms. DiStasi, PhysEd:

“They are always so nice and constantly bring a smile to our class. I really appreciate how they make sure everyone is involved and stays on top of our warm-ups. They teach us so well and ensure that everyone is respectful to one another while we stay active!”

“Thank you Ms. DiStasi for being a very loving phys ed coach and always being in a good mood. You joke around with your students and have fun with everyone and once in a while throw the football with us.”

Mr. Encarnacion, Math:

“Thank you Mr. Encarnacion for being such a good geometry teacher. You have taught us a lot and I actually learned so much.”

Mr. Figueroa, history:

“Thank you to Mr. Fig for helping me learn time management and how to balance my outside life, extracurriculars and homework. Thank you for believing in me and my ability to do work and be able to catch up when I started to fall behind. I’m so grateful he had his doors open to students in the class periods he could and in the mornings as well. He’s helped me significantly in my work ethic, not just in his class but all of them.”

“Mr. Fig has really helped me out throughout the year. He has made history from a somewhat incomprehensible subject to something I can avidly enjoy. He has seriously been my reason for passing this year and I owe a ton to him.”

“Shout out to Mr. Fig for being a good teacher but overall going off topic and taking his time and acknowledging our potential in ourselves. He has helped us turn our self-doubt into confidence. He is more than a teacher, and he makes learning like an adventure, not just a lesson. He’s always positive and patient and when we are struggling he makes every student feel seen and heard. I now enjoy APUSH because of him.”

“I would like to shout out Mr. Fig for many reasons, one of the reasons being that he has been such an important role model in my life this year. I had so much personal issues going on and instead of just assuming I was “lying” or bluffing he helped me back on my feet and that’s something nobody has done for me and that’s something I will always remember. Thank you Mr. Fig for helping me back on my feet and supporting me through all my tough times and thank you for being honest and making me feel like I’m worth something and that I can be something in life.”

“Mr. Figueroa teaches so well that it makes it interesting and makes it fun to learn the topic. he always helps us with work and allows us to come in the morning to work on some stuff for him which helps us a lot. He always gives us time to do homework so we don’t fail his class. Mr Figueroa is the best teacher I have ever had in school and helps me with a lot of things.”

“Shout out to Mr. Fig for being the best teacher I had. He is an amazing human being and an excellent teacher who truly cares for the success of his students. Thank you Mr. Figueroa for always trusting in your students and never giving up on them, we don’t deserve you.”

“I want to shout-out Mr. Fig because he is an amazing teacher and he helps out with anything like college, work, tests and also real world stuff. He also a heart warming teacher since he will listen to you with any problems you have in mind and he will help with anything.”

“You’re so funny, never change. Also never retire.”

“Mr. Figueroa is a very outgoing and engaging teacher that makes learning all the more exciting and something to look forward to. He always ensures that class is not only about taking notes and work, but also about having honest conversations towards one another and regarding our futures.”

“Shout out to Mr. Figueroa, for always being patient and making sure every single one of his students understands the material. You make class feel less stressful and more enjoyable, even making us forget how much work you give us. I appreciate every moment you push me to do better and give my best at everything. You never make anyone feel bad for the questions they ask, and I can speak for everyone when I say it makes us feel more confident in what we’re doing. Thank you for everything you do, and never forget you truly make a difference in your students.”

“I have never met a teacher as devoted to his work as him. He makes his classes entertaining and pushes his students to do their best, you can tell he truly enjoys what he does and he is a great teacher who I deeply look up to.”

“I would like to thank you for the 4 wonderful years 3 for teaching and 4 for student council you have been great teaching me and have been wonderful to me. You did everything in your power to help be a better person as you once went through the maze and then you help me get out of the maze as well giving me the inspiration. So thank you for everything, you help me be the greatest person I can be.”

“Mr. Figueroa is one of the best teachers I have this year. Every time I go in his class, no matter what mood I’m in, I always feel the encouragement to learn. He actually takes time to explain things and makes sure we understand. Whenever I’m confused in his class, he makes sure we understand the material. He doesn’t just rush through the lesson. His class is chill, but you still learn a lot. I appreciate how he helps students and keeps the class interesting.”

“One of my favorite teachers of this year, who actually teaches pretty well and explains things if you are lost or confused, one of the best history teachers ever.”

“Shout-out to Mr.Figueroa who always makes his students feel noticed even when we don’t notice ourselves. Thank you for encouraging us, believing in our effort, and reminding us that our hard work matters, especially on the days we don’t feel proud or seen.”

Ms. Fontanella, Education:

“Ms. Fontanella is a very kind and funny teacher. She brings joy and whimsy to every lesson she teaches; I always look forward to her class.”

Mr. Graham, Science:

“I’d like to appreciate Mr. Graham for making me actually very interested in a non-elective/non-pathway class and having me discuss a lot about said subject in class.”

Mr. Herrera, Math:

“Thanks for not making math boring and for being there for your students!”

“Shout-out to the GOAT who lets me be me in class.”

Ms. Jimenez, Math:

“She is a cool teacher, and I believe that she could be Teacher of the Year someday.”

“Ms. Jimenez has helped me a lot through 7-8th grade, she made work much better to understand and taught me lessons I would never forget. Thank you Ms. Jimenez for being my teacher.”

“Ms. Jimenez is very smart and fun!”

Dr. Korir, Chemistry:

“Thank you for helping me understand chemistry better and making it fun. You’re my favorite teacher and I love your class so keep on doing you!”

“I am not really good at chemistry, but I enjoy your class. I like it when you explain how to do stuff in order for us to really understand it. When someone asks a question, you answer even if you had previously explained it. Also, you are always smiling, despite it being 8 in the morning where a lot of the students in your class are non-responsive and tired.”

“He always answers our questions to the best of his ability and provides us with great feedback. I really appreciate that he gives us many chances to boost our grades, ensures we work well with our respective teams, and always keeps the class spirit high with his great jokes!”

Dr. Koularmanis, English:

“The most understanding and one of the most kindest and coolest teachers out there.”

“I want to thank Mr. K for being a wonderful teacher who always made sure the students were safe and noticed for their needs and always giving a hand out to any student who need help with either their essays for school or helping the new seniors with their college commitments and making sure we were all set for college and making everyone happy.”

Mr. Lightfoot, Math:

“I wanna thank you Mr. Lightfoot for being such an amazing math teacher. Algebra 2 always sounded so difficult but you genuinely make it so easy on me and actually made your class feel so fun with all your jokes.”

“I want to give a huge shout-out to Mr. Lightfoot. He is an incredible teacher who explains concepts clearly and always provides us with great ideas to help us learn. I especially appreciate how he makes sure everyone is contributing and working well within their respective teams. He makes Algebra 2 a great environment for everyone!”

Mr. Lockwood, Science:

“You’re like a bundle of sunshine, lighting up everybody’s day!”

“One of the most chill teachers in the school. He’s super relatable and just cool all around, plus environmental science is easy.”

Ms. Lopez, English:

“Ms. Lopez is always there when I need her, and she helps me deal with my own situations that I can’t deal by myself.”

“Thank you for being supportive teacher!”

“She is very kind and fun, when we need someone to talk to when can always go to her.”

“Thanks for being a little strict but also fun teacher.”

“You have the most interesting and funniest stories to tell, and you are such a fun teacher, and you balance it out by knowing when to be stern.”

“We love your giggly and funny personality and the overall vibe you bring to the classroom and the stories you tell. You always hope for the best for us and encourage us, always preparing us for when there might be challenging work coming our way.”

Ms. Lopuzzo, Music:

“Ms. Lopuzzo for helping me progress and grow as a musician.”

“I have always wanted to learn how to play piano but it seemed so difficult. However, ever since I joined your class, I have learned a lot. The way you teach stuff, the assignments you assign, and how you help students individually is all incredibly helpful. Your class is really fun, not just because I get to practice a beautiful instrument, but also due to your fun personality. Despite it being in my 8th period where I am exhausted and thinking about going home, I find myself smiling and enjoy sitting in your classroom.”

“Even in the midst of all trouble and chaos, you always manage to work everything out and maintain your stance while making sure everything goes by smoothly and I can’t express my appreciation for everything you do as a student in your class! Thank you!”

“Shout out to the GOAT!!! Thanks for everything Ms. Lopuzzo you rock!!”

Ms. Melillo, PhysEd:

“She is a fun and kind teacher.”

“For being the best soccer and basketball coach.”

“Thanks for letting us have fun while also being hard on us.”

Ms. Montoya, Science:

“Ms. Montoya is one of the kindest teachers here at Prep, she is funny and always gives us small treats and she motivates her students.”

“I really love the ambiance of your classroom. Your teaching methods are good and I actually enjoyed learning with the way you spoke and explained stuff. In your class, I feel happier because you smile and are energetic during your lessons.”

“Thank you Mrs. Montoya for being such a good biology teacher. You actually make biology fun and you’re genuinely so nice and funny and your class is one of my favorite classes so thank you so much.”

“The nicest teacher!”

“You are an amazing person, thank you for everything you have done for me and my class. I really hope you accomplish all the dreams you dream of today, and you can set your mind to anything you think of.”

Ms. Mordaga, Spanish:

“I appreciate Ms. Mordaga a lot for the type of teacher she is, she’s always positive and calm which is something I always look forward to anytime I have her class, especially that her kindness makes my day.”

“Thanks for being a good teacher and giving out candy.”

“You always greet everyone with a smile. Every day in class you are smiling and making jokes, you really make my day when I sit in your class. You also teach really well. The notes you hand out are helpful for everyday writing and speaking in Spanish.”

“She is always so nice and caring toward everyone. I really appreciate how she respectfully answers all our questions, even when our Spanish isn’t the greatest. She provides excellent feedback and teaches so well that she keeps the entire class paying attention!”

Ms. Morinho, Theatre Pathway:

“For believing in my theatre skill.”

“Thanks for the many years of teaching us, and to many more to come.”

“You are the best theater teacher ever. You have taught me so much for the time I have known you. You encourage as well as inspire me to want to become a better actor.”

Mr. Morley, PhysEd:

“You are funny and I am so happy you’re my gym teacher! Never retire, the school needs you forever.”

Ms. Mulreany, English:

“Shout out to the best English teacher. She’s really funny and I enjoy her class even though I’m not great at writing essays. Her teaching style is admirable and so is her writing. Ms. Mulreany is really good at balancing humor with education and I look up to her as a teacher.”

Ms. Navedo, Fine Arts:

“Thank you for being such an amazing art teacher, you are so nice to everyone and such an inspirational human being!”

Mr. Perez, Music:

“I would like to take this time to give a shout out to Mr. Perez. Thank you for believing in me and allowing me the opportunity to be the drummer for the Drama Llamas. Thank you for pushing me to put myself out there, connecting me with different colleges, meeting some important artists and allowing me to perform in so many amazing places. This experience has truly meant a lot to me. I’m going to miss your class! Thank you again.”

Ms. Reilly, Science:

“Thank you being so understanding and letting students tell you stuff. You’re the GOAT.”

“I think that she is a nice and fun teacher and she is really funny and fun to hang out with and she is also really kind.”

“Dear Miss Reilly, you are such a nice teacher and very funny and kind. Thank you for being such an inspirational teacher.”

“You make science much less hard with all the work you put in to help us understand things such as a study guide and much more.”

“Thank you for being an amazing teacher! Thanks for all the support and making us understand the concepts better. You are always so understanding and overall an amazing teacher.”

“Shout out to Mrs. Reilly because she’s a great science teacher and puts up with my class every day.”

“Ms. Reilly gave me the best advice when I needed it and helped me when I needed not only help in my work but also help me in conflicts where I did not know what to do.”

“Ms. Reilly is the best teacher! She is very funny and awesome.”

“I love how you help me with my work and give us good study guides so we do good on our tests.”

“Ms. Reilly thank you for making my first year in Prep memorable. You made my middle school life in Prep better.”

Ms. Reyes, Spanish:

“Thank you Ms. Reyes for putting up with me and my not-so-great Spanish. Thank you for your patience, support, and for always encouraging me to keep trying, and for acting like “uh huh, si, good job” even when I definitely just said “the potato is flying to school.” Thank you for being a great teacher!”

Mr. Schmerler, Video Production:

“I would like to give a shout-out to Mr. Schmerler for taking the time to write my recommendation letters for Student Council and the National Honor Society.”

Ms. Spoelstra, Social Studies:

“Thank you for your dedication and for making Social Studies one of my favorite subjects.”

“Thank you Ms. Spoelstra for teaching me African American Studies. When I first got to your class I begged you to let me stay in and it was honestly the best choice I’ve made. Having you as a teacher was so amazing.”

Mr. Stamat, Math:

“Thank you for helping me when I didn’t understand algebra.”

“For being an awesome and funny teacher!”

“Thank you for putting your full effort into making us understand and do well!”

“Thanks for being a good teacher and making sure your students always pass! Best math teacher I ever had.”

“Thank you for being such a good teacher, and encouraging the class even when we were not doing so great with work. You make sure that we know what we are doing, and a really understanding teacher to the class. We love how whenever we dont get something you go over it again overall helping the entire class. And how you make us laugh when something funny happens it really just brings joy to the class. You’re the best possible math teacher we could possibly get in Prep.”

“Shout out to Mr. Stamat for being the GOAT and preparing me for next year’s math.”

“You’ve made me get really far in Algebra. You’re a funny teacher, you don’t regularly judge students for not understanding, and you try to explain what we don’t understand when it comes to math instead of immediately jumping to conclusions. You always try your best to give students a chance to understand what you’re teaching, genuinely going over the steps. I’ve improved so much over time when it comes to algebra, and it’s all because of you. You’re an amazing algebra teacher. Your random jokes make my day better.”

“I would like to take this time to shout you out and say THANK YOU for all the help you have given me and for the long hours you stood after school, when you didn’t have to help me figure out a math problem. You are always patient, supportive and truly dedicated to helping not only me but other students understand and improve. You have made a huge difference in my learning and pushed me to do better when I didn’t think I could. I am really grateful for everything you have done for me and for always going the extra mile. Thank you for believing in me and taking the time to help me succeed.”

“Mr. Stamat was a funny and fun teacher when I had him in 6th grade. Now I’m a senior and I’m grateful to have him as a teacher. He would help me when I got stuck on some problems and would make sure that I would not fall behind. He is an incredible teacher and I appreciate him so much.”

“He is an amazing teacher cause he helps outs students as much as he can and he cares/supports them. He also helps out with seniors for the prom so they can get what they need if missing something from his business.”

Ms. Taylor, English:

“You’re amazing!”

Mr. Tereshko, English:

“Thank you for advocating for me during times that I could not speak up for myself, thank you for everything you have done to support my growing English knowledge and being overall supportive of what others have to say and tell you.”

“Thank you so much, Mr. Tereshko, for being such an inspiring and dedicated ELA teacher this year. Your passion for literature made every lesson very fun, and I truly appreciate how much you helped me improve my writing. I feel very lucky to have been in your class!”

“Thank you for being a good teacher and providing useful life skills like tips on job interviews, college essays, how to write essays in a way that’s not boring, and being blunt at times while also being funny.”

“Shout out to Mr. Tereshko for always pushing students to prepare for college and providing assistance when it comes to things college related.”

Ms. Torres, Math:

“Thank you Ms. Torres for always being patient and accommodating with us. You’re an awesome teacher!”

“Thank you Ms. Torres for your patience, your words of wisdom and for your jokes.”

“Ms. Torres is always on top of the class and makes sure everyone has the best grade they possibly can achieve. No matter how scary and strict she can be, she shows that she cares for her students. She is also able to make the whole class laugh by accident or on purpose. She works with the students so they have the opportunity to obtain a higher grade or if they simply need extra help. Ms. Torres made math an easy and understandable subject. Shout out to her for being an amazing teacher.”

“Shout-out to Ms. Torres for playing elevator music during our quizzes.”

Mr. Tully, Math/CIS:

“He is funny, he has a great humor, he is an OG to the community, and he is overall the best teacher.”

“One of the most patient and funniest teachers out there.”

Mr. Vasquez, Spanish:

“I would like to thank you for all the support I have received from you; my sister and I are deeply grateful. Thank you for your advice and for being such an extraordinary role model. You are an excellent teacher; my sister and I thoroughly enjoy spending time and conversing with you. I have never before seen my sister warm up to a teacher so quickly, and that demonstrates just how wonderful you are as an educator. Keep shining just as you do. Please take good care of yourself; we hold you in high esteem. P.S. Keep making us laugh—you are very funny.”

“Thank you for always being there for the students and advising us for our future. You give us the trust to believe in you and your hopes for us. Thank you Mr. Vasquez.”

Mr. Watson, Digital Arts:

“Mr. Watson you’re the coolest around! I hope you get what you wish for and more!”