High School Seniors: Who is mentor, friend or teacher who made a meaningful impact on your high school experience?

Kassandra Maurad, Malverne High School, with teacher Mr. Nadeem. "From teaching me my first AP class in 10th grade to helping me write a speech for college as I get ready to graduate, nobody's been as much of an influence on my high school life as Mr. Nadeem."

Jeremy Haynes with track and field coach, Nicholas DiBenedetto "Mr. Dibenedetto. Day in and day out he always showed and told me what I am capable of and how to get there, he pushed me to my limits every day at practice so I can be the best runner that I can and I am very grateful to have him as a coach."

Brock Walker, West Hempstead Secondary School, with English teacher Mariah Tyler. "The journey to step out of my shell couldn't have been possible without Ms. Tyler because as a teacher, mentor, and coach, she has helped me truly find myself, put myself out there more and really get out of my comfort zone. Now, I get to leave high school with many memories and many friends, but it all started in that English class in room 214 where I was able to truly find my Ram Pride."

Jessica Greenblatt, Long Beach High School, Dr. Matthew Morand, school psychologist. “Dr. Morand is the best thing that ever happened to me. He always gets things done, has the students’ best interests in mind, and has never failed to stand up for what’s right in the face of adversity. Dr. Morand successfully ran the Israeli Culture Club, Names Not Numbers, and the Student Organization. He is what I consider a hero. There are no words for how much I appreciate him since my first day as a freshman to my last day as a senior in high school.”

Aryelle Teran, Long Beach High School, with school psychologist Matthew Morand. Although I admire a multitude of workers at Long Beach, the staff member that has had the biggest influence on me has to be Dr. Morand. I wouldn’t be the person I am today if it weren’t for the advice he’s given me and the support he's provided me with through difficult times. Having a staff member who can make you laugh during some of your hardest times is something that every student deserves, and I’m so lucky to have that at Long Beach.

Karim Adetayo, Kellenberg Memorial High School, with church history/religon teacher Mr. Finn I met Mr. Finn in my sophomore year as my church history/religion teacher. I learned a lot from him and have done over fifteen activities since then. I trace it all back to him. He opened so many doors for me and taught me lessons I’ll forever keep during my journey into college and the rest of my life. The mentor-student relationship we have had has been one of my biggest blessings in Kellenberg, and I am forever grateful for having met Mr. Finn.

Eric Ressegger, Kellenberg Memorial High School, with teacher and mentor James O’Brien "Mr. O’Brien has been with me during my entire Kellenberg journey, from being my Latin School baseball coach in 8th grade, my 9th grade Scripture teacher, and my Parish Religious Education Program moderator at Saint Agnes Cathedral. Mr. O’Brien taught me that while academic success is very important, you should get involved as much as you can, and enjoy the extracurricular activities and faith opportunities that Kellenberg has to offer. He has become more than just a teacher to me. He has been a great mentor and friend."

Tatum Hunter, Kellenberg Memorial High School with teacher Thomas Kennedy "During my four years at Kellenberg, Mr. Kennedy stands out as a teacher that has had a prominent impact on me. Not only did he help me to become a better student in the classroom, but also he taught me that high school is about the relationships you build and the experiences you have! Mr. Kennedy showed me how much Kellenberg has to offer and for that I’m extremely grateful."

Laura Rodriguez, Glen Cove High School, with AP Calculus AB Teacher Mario Nardiello Mr. Nardiello, my AP Calculus teacher, has made a challenging subject one of the most enjoyable parts of my day. His kindness, humor, and constant encouragement have had a lasting impact on me, both academically and personally. He’s the kind of teacher who makes every student feel seen and supported—someone I’ll never forget and will definitely visit in the future.

Sergio Gonzalez, Freeport High School, about BOCES phlebotomy/medical assistant teacher, Mrs. Hogan. "Mrs. Hogan, had a huge impact on me through her kindness, passion, and belief in my potential. She inspired me to take my future in healthcare seriously and pushed me to grow both academically and personally. I'll never forget her or the many teachers who shaped my journey—I'm deeply grateful for each one of them."

Ben Brenner, Glen Cove High School, with English teacher Allison Butler "Mrs. Butler has had a wonderful impact on my high school experience. She is supportive, hilarious and overall one of the nicest teachers in the world. She made me fall in love with English. She is a true warrior—I will never forget Mrs. Butler!"

Eliana Guitierrez Gonzalez talking about teacher Ms. Brown-Murphy. Ms. Brown-Murphy has helped me emotionally and has talked to me through tough times when I was going through a lot this year. I've known Ms. Brown for 3 years, and she has made me feel like her own kid by talking to me and making me feel comfortable.

Jordyn Perry, Freeport High School, about Mock Trial club advisor, Lashonda Gardenhire Mrs. Gardenhire was key to building my character. She encouraged me to be involved in community service, become confident in new or uncomfortable environments, and display leadership skills amongst my peers. Through Mock Trial, her guidance and mentoring has inspired me to pursue law in my future college career.

Roosvelly Charles, Sewanhaka High School, with assistant principal Christine Licastri "Mrs. Licastri treats me like her own son. No matter what, she always has my back and supports me in every way. Whenever I'm with her, I feel cared for and valued. Her kindness, patience, and constant encouragement have made such a difference in my life. I always feel safe, loved, and understood in her presence, and that means everything to me."

Serena Kalamaras (left), H. Frank Carey High School, with friend Kayla Dudine (right). "My best friend Kayla had a very important impact on my high school experience. In high school, I had a difficult transition. She made me feel like I fit in, and I was happy that I found such an amazing friend. I never had such a strong friendship and connection with anyone else."

Shilo Cyrus, Elmont Memorial High School, with counselor center administrative assistant, Nikki Brusca "Ms. Brusca has had a meaningful impact on my high school experience by always pushing me to do my best and believing in my potential, even when I doubted myself. Her support and encouragement helped me grow in many ways."

Amira Elrington-Edwards, Elmont Memorial High School, with social studies teacher and football coach Kareem Agoro Mr. Agoro, my football coach, has been a pivotal part of my high school career as an upperclassman. From teaching me to how to become the best kicker to celebrating with me at my signing day, he’s been a key part of my support system. He’s created a safe environment for me to communicate my feelings and be able to de-stress during tough days. He always gives the best advice and has my best interests at heart!

Katrina Nunez, East Rockaway High School with mentor, Tara Gonzalez. "She showed me that there is truly a place for me in this busy beehive of a world. With her no-nonsense attitude, she was much like my own mother, someone I can always trust to confide in. She made me realize, that I'm not alone, that there are people who love and validate us for who we are. Without her, I would be miserable, that I am certain."

Joey Lu, East Rockaway High School, with science teacher Bryan Palermo. "During junior year, I took AP Physics 1 and met Mr. Palermo for the first time. Though I struggled with content almost everyday, he showed me his generosity and patience which made my experience in learning so much better. He was always an inspiring and optimistic leader that made me look forward to coming to class to genuinely learn. His classroom will always be a safe and comfortable haven to return to."

Adriana DeLuisi East Rockaway High School, with teacher Amy Weissman Canale "Ms. Weissman Canale has made me who I am today. She's shown me it's possible to get through hard battles and work through difficult times. Throughout my four years of high school she has been there through every battle. She is what motivated me to go in the social work field and I cant thank her enough for that. She seriously helped me find my passion."

Katilyn Boesch, W.T Clarke High School, with science teacher Mitchel Klass "Mr. Mitchel Klass had a meaningful impact on my high school experience. Science wasn't always my strongest subject. Mr. Klass made it easier to understand by adjusting his teaching methods and finding ways to help us connect with the content."

Justin Gonzalez, W. T Clarke High School with science teacher. "Mr. Andrew Rotolo had a meaningful impact on my high school experience. His lessons were always organized and structured, making it easy to follow and understand. He also maintained a relaxed atmosphere which made learning science fun."

Adrianna Montelalegre, East Meadow High School with Coach Aloni. "Coach Aloni had a lasting and meaningful impact on me in high school. He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Coach Aloni convinced me to continue when I wanted to give up. With his support, commitment, and persistence, I was able to achieve the division championship. I will always be very grateful to him and all he has done for me."

Nicholas DeStefano, East Meadow High School, with Coach Aloni. "Coach Aloni had a lasting and meaningful impact on me in high school. He believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. Coach Aloni convinced me to continue when I wanted to give up. With his support, commitment, and persistence, I was able to achieve the division championship. I will always be very grateful to him and all he has done for me."

Alissa Mili, East Meadow High School, with social studies teacher Judith Trocchio "Mrs. Trocchio has had a very positive impact on my life throughout my high school years even after having her as a teacher. When I took AP Seminar, she never failed to make me feel confident as a writer. I never thought an AP class could be as much fun as she made it. Even as a senior, I still talk to her every day and she always welcomes my presence in her classroom, making me feel valued in every way possible."

Lucian Yee, W.T Clarke High School with art teacher Marlena Dentrone "Mrs. Dentrone had a meaningful impact on my high school experience. Starting high school immediately after the Covid lockdown, I felt alone and out of place in school. She made her classroom a comfortable and welcoming space for my peers and me. Throughout high school, she continuously encouraged me to pursue my dreams."

Samantha Chaiken, Sanford H. Calhoun High School, with social studies teacher Brian Joyce. "Mr. Joyce has sure changed my world and hundreds of students’ lives for over 18 years. Not only has Mr. Joyce been a teacher, mentor, and support system, but also he has become my role model. His special demeanor allows students to become the best versions of themselves, inspiring them to do anything they want in life. The world needs more Mr. Joyce’s."

Lauren Ephraim, Baldwin High School, with her mentor Stephanie Muir "My mentor, Ms. Muir, has been my mentor through the Baldwin High School mentoring program for four years. She is very funny and has given me really great advice for anything I need. I am going to the University of Buffalo to study musical theater and dance, and her being a music teacher really helped me refine those skills. I hope to use these skills to become a star on Broadway."

Gabriella Vargas, Baldwin High School, with her mentor Stephanie Muir My mentor, Ms. Muir, has been my mentor through the Baldwin High School mentoring program for two years. She really understands me, even when I was not sure of myself. I used to play the violin, and she challenged me to learn to play the cello and because of her,I was able to learn two instruments. Music helped me find my place and understand who I am. I hope to use these skills in the forensics field when I get older.

Amy Vargas, Baldwin High School, with mentor and English teacher, Mr. Timothy Ryley "My mentor is Mr. Ryley and he has been my mentor through the Baldwin High School mentoring program for this year, and my English teacher for sophomore year. He is very understanding and helped me through the college process, specifically with my essay on why I want to become a nurse. Because of this, I was able to get into Pace University for nursing."

Nariah Mena,Baldwin High School with her mentor Brooke Weiskopf. "Ms. Weiskopf, has been my mentor through the Baldwin High School mentoring program for two years. She is always understanding and never comes from a place of judgement. She has been very helpful in me trying to figure out what I want to do once I graduate high school, which is help people, while also practicing personal financial literacy."

Yarel Sulman, George W. Hewlett High School, with her school counselor Dana Rubenstein "Reflecting on my high school experience, I recognize how incredibly special the people in my school and community have been in shaping the person I am today. I want to express my deep hakarat hatov (gratitude) for everyone who provided unwavering love and support throughout my 4 years of high school and beyond, especially to my wonderful school counselor, Ms. Dana Rubenstein. Ms. Rubenstein has been nothing but supportive to me, not just as a guide and mentor, but also as a friend with whom I can talk about almost everything."

Shaya Grunstein, DRS Yeshiva High School, with Rabbi Daniel Cooper "I'm very thankful to have had the opportunity to learn from an incredible person by the name of Rabbi Daniel Cooper. Rabbi Cooper made a real impression on me from the first day of 11th grade, as I could tell immediately that he was, and still is, someone who really, genuinely cares about every student he teaches. He is someone who inspired and strengthened me to complete a project that took daily effort for almost 4 months. Even today, a year since I've been in his class, Rabbi Cooper still texts me often just to see how I'm doing and to encourage me to keep going strong in my studies and to give everything I have to everything I do."

Joshua Torczyner, DRS Academy, with creative writing teacher Mr. Deutsch “My 10th Grade creative writing teacher, Mr. Deutsch, had a lasting impact on me. Mr. Deutsch made me feel comfortable with opening myself up in my writing. He also helped me become more confident in my writing skills and capabilities. Having him as a mentor made me love writing and allowed me to take more challenging courses to further my writing skills later on in high school.”

Gavin Glassman, G.W. Hewlett High School, with school counselor Mrs. Murphy “My school counselor, Mrs. Murphy, has undoubtedly had a huge impact on my high school experience. She sat with me through many talks about my frequently changing opinions on where I wanted to go after high school, and just listened and acknowledged my reasons. She was so dedicated to helping me with one of the most important choices in my life, and I could not be more grateful. Also, she’s just the most awesome person ever, and honestly, one of my best friends. Thank you for all you’ve done for me, Mrs. Murphy!”

Abdullah Ashrafi, George W. Hewlett High School with mentor Terrence Bissoondial Dr. Terrence Bissoondial has had an immeasurable impact on me throughout high school. When I first entered his class, I often let others' opinions define me and lacked self-confidence. Through preparing for research competitions together, he helped me improve my public speaking, my body language, and control my anxiety in front of an audience. Thanks to his guidance, I’ve grown into someone who can speak with clarity and stand my ground with confidence.

Shehreyar Ahmad, Oceanside High School, with math teacher James Smith "I was never in any of Mr. Smith's classes, but I was in Mathletes with him as the advisor. He really helped me nurture my love for math."

Madison Moore, Oceanside High School, with math teacher Yves Jean-Pierre. "I've always loved math. It gets a bad rap, but I love that there's always a solution, but different ways to get there. That's become my mentality for everything. I naturally feel closest to my math teacher,s and I've learned so much from JP."

Ryan Agovino, Plainedge High School, with English teacher Brian Buckley "Mr. Buckley always made coming to his class fun. He created a positive and inspiring atmosphere and encouraged us to leave our comfort zones. He allowed us to have fun as we got our work done, and his class showed me what a positive learning classroom looks like. I am very grateful for the impact he had on me inside and outside of the classroom."

Lindsay Martorana, South Side High School, with guidance counselor Alex Foulkalas Throughout my four years a teacher that has had a meaningful impact on my South Side High school career is my guidance counselor Mrs. Foukalas. While undergoing the stress of the college process, she had always reassured me everything would work out. She would keep her door open and make time in her schedule whenever I had any questions, concerns or just needed someone to talk to. I thank her for always believing in me, making my dreams a reality!

​​Aaron Weisenburger, South Side High School, with science teacher Mr. Weiss "I can think of no other person who has had a more meaningful impact on me than Mr. Weiss. He has always provided me with opportunities for science research throughout my high school career, including Regeneron, Long Island Science and Engineering Fair, Long Island Science Conference, and Science Bowl. These opportunities made me grow academically and as a person."

Logan Barone, Seaford High School with chorus teacher, Yvonne Bendzlowics One person who had a meaningful impact in my high school experience was my chorus teacher Mrs. Bendzlowicz. I met Mrs. Bendzlowicz in 9th grade and had her as a teacher until 12th grade, she always knew how to make someone smile and laugh. Chorus class felt like a family that could help you through anything, but it all started with Mrs. Bendzlowicz making every student feel comfortable and safe in her class.

Jayne Singleton, Seaford High School, with her mom Judi Singleton. High school has been such a memorable and shaping experience that without a doubt was most impacted by my mom, Judi Singleton. My mom is the most hardworking, selfless, and caring person who never fails to put a smile on anyone’s face. My mom is my biggest fan and supporter who pushes me to be the best I can be whether that be in sports, in the classroom, or at home. I’m lucky enough to not only call her my mom, but my best friend too.

Juliana Suppa, Seaford High School, with her teacher Christine Caserta Someone that had a meaningful impact on my high school experience would have to be Mrs. Caserta. She has been by my side for 7 years, not only encouraging me to be the best student but also helping me have the best learning skills. Mrs. Caserta’s feedback was always constructive, and she created an environment where I felt comfortable expressing my thoughts and ideas. This support made a significant difference in my confidence and overall well-being as a student at Seaford High School.

Maricela Canizales, Uniondale High School with teacher Meldrick Parraga "Mr. Meldrick Parraga was my teacher for two years, and his belief in me changed the way I saw myself. He constantly reminded me of my potential and celebrated every step of my growth. More than a teacher, he was a mentor and a guide, his words and support made a lasting impact on my high school journey and helped shape the person I am becoming.

Melanie Hinostroza Romo, Uniondale High School, with retired deputy superintendent Lydia Colòn Bomani "Meeting my mentor has been one of the greatest blessings for me this year because she has helped me so much in the process of choosing the career path I want to follow. She has taught me that true leadership also means supporting, listening, and serving others. The way she has guided me inspires me to be a positive influence for those around me as well."

Aleeza Dhillon, Valley Stream North High School, with math teacher Elina Fomina Mrs. Elina Fomina has been one of the most impactful, patient, and devoted teachers I have had the pleasure to learn under. One of my favorite memories is when she taught us how to find volumes by integration by letting us eat bread, which showed me that math is all around me and an integral part of our world. I have decided to pursue applied mathematics in college, all thanks to her dedication for making math captivating and sharing her own passion.

Julianna Tsempelis, Wantagh High School, with history teacher Michael Tallarine "Although many of my teachers have made a positive impact on me, Mr. Tallarine had the most meaningful influence on my high school experience. After taking his AP U.S. History class in 11th grade, he taught me an important life lesson that many do not emphasize enough: to work hard and persevere, focusing not just on grades but on deepening my knowledge to better myself. Beyond being one of the most thorough and hardworking teachers I’ve had, I also felt that he also took the time to understand me, my strengths, weaknesses, and personality which means a lot as a student. Mr. Tallarine always struck the perfect balance between being serious and fun, and I know I could always rely on him for honest advice and guidance in my academics and personal life as well. "

Francesco Pellicoro, Wantagh High School, with science teacher Valarie Sebastiano "The teacher I would like to nominate is Ms. Sebastiano. Ms. Sebastiano instilled my deep interest in the biological sciences and inspired me to follow a career path to becoming a physician. She never failed to fascinate me with her amazing lessons, while fostering the most engaging environment in the Wantagh High School building. Her words, "press on," never fail to repeat in my head when needing to overcome struggle. The two years I spent with her were truly unmatched, which I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience."

Ashley Fox, Wantagh High School, with mentor Courtney Prestianni "The mentor that I would like to nominate is Mrs. Prestianni. Mrs. Prestianni significantly and positively impacted by high school experience by changing the process of applying to college from a stressful experience to an exciting one. I am extremely grateful for Mrs. Prestianni providing me with support and advice throughout high school for both school and outside of school matters."

Matthew Gennings, West Babylon High School, with music teacher Christopher Patruno, "His recognition of my skills and belief in my ability to lead and influence others positively has allowed me to grow into a confident and motivated person. Every conversation that I have with Mr. Patruno furthers my love for music and elevates my understanding of the world. His passion for teaching and music is so contagious that it can influence anyone to share in the same passion."

Ja'Nasia Johnson, West Babylon High School, with social studies teacher and track coach Phil Armato "I really appreciate everything that Mr. Armato has done as my coach and teacher. He has pushed me to work hard and believe in myself. His support and high expectations have made a big difference for me both in school and on the track."

William Horowitz, West Babylon High School, with AP Biology teacher Andrea Durbin, "Throughout high school, Mrs. Durbin went above and beyond in and out of the classroom to help me pursue my goals in science. In the Science Olympiad, she led us to the State Championship for four straight years! Her teaching and mentorship prepared me for college and greatly contributed to my decision to study biology."

Anthony Moore, Wyandanch High School about the principal of Wyandanch Memorial High School, Paul Sibblie "Paul Sibblies has had an impactful experience in me with the mentoring program, Kappa League, he provided throughout my high school career. JROTC has been an impactful leadership lesson for me throughout the years of my freshman year going to my senior year."

Krystal Galloway, Wyandanch High School about club advisor Loretta Williamson By participating in the Butterfly club led by club advisor, Ms. Williamson and through our conversations, I learned that asking for help and managing stress are not signs of weakness but essential steps toward a healthier and more balanced life. Now, as a graduating senior, I see Ms. Williamson as a second mother figure, someone who has always been there for me through my high school career.

Emely Melgar Martinez, Wyandanch Memorial High School, with science teacher Renee Schoenfeldt "During my four years of high school, I had many teachers, but none impacted me like my earth science teacher, Ms. Schoenfeldt. She always reminded me that I was capable of more than I believed and told me how proud she was of me, which gave me confidence and pushed me to do better. Ms. Schoenfeldt was the teacher I went to on tough days or when I had good news to share—everyone needs someone like her in their life."