6th Grade Science Teacher

Tim is excited to be teaching 6th grade science at BUGS.  He earned his Bachelor's from Hunter College and is passionate about interdisciplinary science learning, including renewable energy systems. He studied these renewable energy systems at Solar Energy International and received his Solar Professionals Residential and Commercial Photovoltaic Systems Certificate in 2017. He taught 7th and 8th grade at East Side Community High School in Manhattan, he was a Director of Education at Green Thumb (NYC Parks), a Program Director at Open Road, a consultant for the Trust for Public Land Playground Program, and a carpenter. He has planted gardens, built compost-heated greenhouses, designed and installed solar systems and wildlife ponds all over New York City, and looks forward to continuing new adventures in science with the BUGS team. Tim lives in Brooklyn and loves to spend his free time with his family (including his dog Spot).  He loves the outdoors, boating, camping, and model making.

6th Grade Social Studies Teacher

Tina (she/her) is thrilled to be joining the BUGS community as a 6th-grade Social Studies teacher! She grew up in Westchester, NY and moved to southern Mississippi for middle and high school. After returning to NY in 2013, Tina graduated from Fordham University with a concentration in music and philosophy. She then proceeded to Relay Graduate School of Education for a Master’s degree. Previously, she taught 4th grade, primarily teaching reading and math. In her free time, Tina enjoys spending time with her family & friends, as well as running a small nail studio after school and on weekends. Tina is excited to bring her passion for closing the gaps and inconsistencies of education for students with unique learning needs to BUGS.

Guidance Counselor

Trish is excited to join the BUGS team as a Guidance Counselor. Trish grew up in the Bronx, NY. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Media Arts from Long Island University (Brooklyn Campus), a master’s degree in School Counseling from Alfred University, and an Advanced Certificate in Mental Health Counseling. For the past 20 years, Trish has dedicated herself to the social services field working with adults with intellectual disabilities and children with special needs. Trish hopes to continue to make a difference with the students while coming up with sustainable approaches to handling everyday issues. In her spare time, she loves to spend time with her family and friends, cooking and watching the Knicks or Liberty Basketball games.

7th Grade Science Teacher

Zack has been teaching in NYC public schools for more than 8 years as a science teacher. He is passionate about conducting engaging science lessons with his students as well as in field trip education. He currently holds a Master’s degree in Earth Science Education from Brooklyn College, Students with disabilities from Touro College, and a B.S. in Business Management and Finance from Brooklyn College. Zack has worked in the restaurant business, and then in finance, before deciding to change his career to teaching. Zack lives in Brooklyn and enjoys outdoor activities in its city parks.