Executive Director

Susan has over 25 years of experience creating, developing and managing educational and social service programs in the private, public and non-profit sectors. She is passionate about creating a sustainable future and exploring individuals' and organizations' potential for growth and learning. She has broad-ranging experience in administration, including program and staff development, financial and compliance oversight, grants management and fundraising for nonprofit organizations and schools, including homeless youth and early childhood programs. She has brought her professional skills to the public school system by serving on the School Leadership Teams of PS295 and the NYC iSchool. In her teaching and educational consulting practice, Ms. Tenner worked directly with parents, teachers, students and organizational clients on curriculum and program development, with a focus on constructivist and hands-on experiential learning models. She earned her B.A. with honors from Brown University and received her Master’s in Education from the Harvard Graduate School of Education. She lives in Greenwood Heights with her husband and children, and is an active, enthusiastic member of the community and public school system.

Principal

Wynette joined BUGS in 2015 and brings with her over twenty years of experience as a special educator, professor, and administrator. She formerly taught several grade levels at PS 372K, The Children’s School and continues to be an Adjunct Professor of Literacy at Long Island University’s (LIU) Brooklyn Campus, where she has taught since 2012. Wynette holds a Bachelor’s/Master’s of Science in Childhood Education and Student with Disabilities along with a Master’s of Science in Teaching Literacy from LIU. She also holds a Postgraduate Advanced Certificate in Education Leadership from SUNY Stony Brook. Wynette was born in the sunny island of Trinidad, West Indies, and was raised there until the age of 17. She connects the school's sustainability theme with the use of water collection systems as this is a valued resource in many areas of her native island.

Director of Operations

Cay came to BUGS in 2014 via a circuitous route involving graphic design, motherhood, bookkeeping, and leading her children’s PTA. She has been organized and organizing others all of her life, and is thrilled to get to do it all day at BUGS! She loves working with middle schoolers every day, having had two of her own. Cay loves to read, knit and cook for family & friends. She does not love to go running or vacuum.

Director of Business Operations

Josh is passionate about his work at BUGS. Whether he is supporting families both new and returning, or in the background synchronizing the technology needs of students and staff, Joshua is driven by being able to provide solutions for the BUGS community. Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Joshua graduated from Baruch College, where he earned a B.B.A. in Marketing & Psychology. Prior to arriving at BUGS, Josh developed his passion for education and working with families by running an after-school tutoring center in the heart of Sunset Park, Brooklyn. Josh uses his passion for cutting-edge technology to discover creative ways to assist members of the BUGS community in meeting their learning and productivity goals. In his free time, Joshua enjoys hosting competitive game nights with family and friends.

Assistant Principal, S.T.E.A.M.

Christine began her career in education nearly 15 years ago with Teach for America in the South Bronx. She taught high school social studies and economics, as well as engaged students in Project Based Learning through real-world internship projects. She earned her School Building Leader license through the NYC DOE's Leaders in Education Apprenticeship Program, served as an assistant principal at her TFA placement school, and subsequently was a founding assistant principal of Gotham Collaborative High School. Christine holds a B.S. in Ethics, History, and Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon University and a M.S. in Teaching from Fordham University. She originally hails from St. Louis, MO (and will defend St. Louis-style pizza rivals that of NYC), but has called the city home for her entire career. Christine came to BUGS in 2022 because she believes in educating for sustainability at her core. She moved to Singapore with her family in 2023 - 24, but has since returned home to BUGS. She feels immensely grateful to once again support the BUGS mission as the Assistant Principal of STEAM. In her free time, Christine is an avid hiker and enjoys spending time outdoors with her husband and son.

Assistant Principal of Humanities

Mrs. Keneshia Maxwell has been an educational disruptor for more than two decades and believes that "to whom much is given much is required”. She has a staunch belief and respect for the power of education. Keneshia has been an intentional advocate, starting as a Reading and Writing classroom teacher who used the curriculum to amplify and enfranchise underrepresented voices in our society. Keneshia, a wife and mother, holds a BA in English/English Secondary Education, M.Ed in Teaching Literacy, and is currently an organizational leadership doctoral candidate.

Keneshia, a certified mentor, seeks to use her formal platform of instructional leadership to support and develop teachers. Who she is today, is due to the hard work and unwavering commitment of her "village," her industriousness, perseverance, and diligence. Whatever she does, both professionally and personally, she does it hoping to offer that which she has been given.

Dean of Students

Primos Cobb is a passionate advocate for education, with a remarkable journey that began in Inner City Atlanta. Primos started by contributing to a groundbreaking meditation study designed to empower foster youth, setting the stage for a lifelong commitment to education. In 2014, they joined Teach for America as an Atlanta corps member, dedicating six years to teaching 7th-grade math in Atlanta and Brooklyn. Their impact extended beyond the classroom as they assumed the role of Dean of Students for three years, demonstrating leadership and dedication in creating a nurturing school community. Primos is excited to be part of the BUGS community, drawn by its values of community and sustainability. Their journey exemplifies the transformative power of education and their unwavering dedication to fostering a love for learning in students.

Director of Inclusion & Assessments

Dan has been a passionate public educator for ten years. Prior to joining the BUGS team, he was the Director of School Culture at Future Leaders Institute Charter School in Harlem. Before moving into school administration, Dan taught 7th and 8th grade Humanities and worked as a school team facilitator for the Department of Education’s District Charter Collaborative. Dan has a Masters Degree in Secondary Education. Dan is a passionate supporter of the New York sport teams and likes to spend his free time going to Yankees games or working in his garden. Dan believes that through engaging, rigorous and supportive curriculum, all students have the capacity to succeed. Dan came to BUGS because of the school’s commitment to supporting the academic and social emotional needs of all its students, as well as, the school’s mission to help build a more just, equitable and sustainable world.

Instructional Coach

Grace is excited to continue at BUGS in her new role as Instructional Coach! A life-long New Yorker, Grace brings over seven years of classroom teaching experience in DOE and charter schools across the city. She earned her BA in History and Political Science at Adelphi University, MA in Adolescent Social Studies Education at Hunter College, and is currently pursuing a post-graduate degree in Educational Leadership. With a deep passion for collaboration and empowering educators, Grace is dedicated to supporting teachers in refining their instructional practices and enhancing student learning outcomes. In her free time, Grace loves to travel, learn new recipes, and hike with her husband and dog, Enzo Pupperoni. Grace is excited to foster a culture of continuous improvement and contribute to the growth and success of her educational community.

7th Grade Writing Teacher & Writing Department Chair

Ms. Alana was born and raised in Brooklyn (not too far from BUGS!) and is happy to be returning to the BUGS team as a 7th-grade writing teacher. She moved back home to Brooklyn from the Hudson Valley after attending Bard College and completing her B.A. in Human Rights and a Master's in Teaching Literature. Ms. Alana has worked with children in many capacities over the last ten years, but her favorite thing about teaching ELA is cultivating discussions about books and helping students find their voice as writers. In her spare time, she enjoys catching a game at Yankee Stadium, riding her bike around Brooklyn, and trying out new restaurants with friends.

6th Grade Reading Teacher

Alex is dedicated to exposing students to a variety of literature and texts that will help them think critically about the world around them.  Her academic journey began in Cambridge, Massachusetts, where she earned a Bachelors in Writing and Literature from Emerson College. She has a Masters in Education from Brooklyn College with a focus on English Language Arts.

Alex has a passion for reading music bios, short fiction, and poetry. When her head isn’t stuck in a book, you can find her journaling, crafting poetry, practicing yoga, or immersed in the vibrant art scene of NYC.

7th Grade Reading Teacher

Alyssa is really excited about teaching 7th graders at BUGS! Alyssa went to Rutgers University where she received a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Master's in Special/Elementary Education. Previously, Alyssa was a 3rd and 4th grade teacher. She is committed to providing a high-quality education for all students and can be found hanging out with her friends on the weekends!

Guidance Counselor

Anali began her youth work over 15 years ago as a youth development counselor at a Boys and Girls Club on Long Island. She graduated from Molloy College with a B.S. in Psychology and went on to receive her Master's in School Counseling from Long Island University, C.W. Post. She has worked as a school counselor at both elementary and high school charter schools in Brooklyn. Anali came to BUGS as the founding Guidance Counselor in 2013, because of the school mission focused on community, exploration, and student voice. In addition to counseling, she oversees the Advisory program and High School Placement Process. She looks forward to continued collaboration with BUGS students, parents and faculty to help every student develop strong character, life skills and academic skills. On her free time, Anali enjoys reading, yoga and spending time with her family.

6th Grade Math Teacher

Andre was born in East New York, Brooklyn. The education he received in his neighborhood zone school was subpar, and his mother decided to move the family upstate to Buffalo, N.Y. Life in Buffalo felt much different than in Brooklyn, so it took him some time to adjust. His goal was to graduate high school and then attend college, where he was accepted to Buffalo State College. This is where he pursued his undergraduate degree in liberal arts. After college, Mr. Williams decided to move back to Brooklyn to start his career as a teacher. He worked for the Department of Education for 5 years, went back to get his master’s degree at Touro College, a private school in East New York, Brooklyn and then on to charter schools in Downtown Brooklyn and East Harlem. He comes to us with over 10 years of teaching experience, and is looking forward to working with the scholars at BUGS this year.

6th Grade Social Studies Teacher

Mx.Montalvo(they/them) is currently a 6th grade Social Studies teacher at BUGS! They have worked as a Special Education teacher in the Greater NYC area for eight years. They have a focus on SEL and incorporate it in their curriculum. Certified in NYC and attained a Masters in Childhood Education from Relay Graduate school of Education. On their spare time, Mx. Montalvo loves hikes, walks with their dogs, and visits to art galleries.

Operations Assistant

Aqilah is an Americorps graduate who served with Green City Force, a nonprofit organization that promotes social justice and environmental sustainability. Throughout her term with GCF, she has gained experience in urban agriculture and energy efficiency. After she graduated, she continued working with Green City Force as a Tree Analyst, assessing the health of various types of trees in NYCHA public housing developments. She then worked as the Data and Evaluation Assistant at Red Hook Initiative, another nonprofit that helps urban youth improve their personal and academic development. She attended Brooklyn Technical High School, where she initially took an interest in environmental science. She has taken courses at Fairleigh Dickinson University, studying Mass Communication and Multimedia Journalism. In her spare time, you can find her taking photos of nature, journaling, and exploring new cuisines.

7th Grade Writing Teacher

Betsy is delighted to get students excited about ELA. Betsy loves the inclusive, nurturing environment at BUGS. She holds an MA in Reading Intervention from Teachers College at Columbia and a BA in Secondary Education and English from Boston College. Betsy is certified to teach Special Education and English Language Arts for grades 7-12. In her free time, Betsy runs in Prospect Park with her hound dog Reba, quilts and sews clothing, reads books written for middle school students and adults, and visits her family in Idaho.

8th Grade Math Teacher

Bibi is committed to providing a safe and equitable learning environment for all students, which is one of the reasons that she decided to become a BUGS teacher. She has over 20 years of experience in the Education sector of which she has taught Math and Science for 7 years. Bibi has a Bachelor’s degree in Physics and a Post Graduate diploma in Education. In her spare time, Bibi likes to hike, bike and hang out with her two active sons.

Tech Assistant

Brandon was born and raised in The Bronx, New York, and is excited to join the BUGS team as a Technology Assistant. With a strong passion for technology, he is eager to help students and staff by addressing their tech challenges and providing effective solutions. Brandon earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems from SUNY Buffalo State University in 2024, where his experiences as a student during the pandemic instilled resilience and adaptability. In his free time, he enjoys playing video games and creating beats, seamlessly blending his love for music and technology. Brandon believes that technology has the power to spark creativity and innovation, and he is excited to bring this perspective to his role at BUGS!

8th Grade Reading Teacher

Breanne is thrilled to be at BUGS teaching her favorite subject, reading! She earned her Master’s degree from Touro College and is dual certified in General and Special Education. She is excited to work with students toward a better future through sustainability education. Breanne grew up near Gettysburg, Pennsylvania and has been living in New York City for the past 15 years. In her free time she enjoys reading, cooking, and traveling.

Teaching Assistant (Spanish, Sustainability & CAPA)

Bri studied Drama at The New School for four years. She has spent the last several years coaching, mentoring, and being a teacher assistant for communities spanning from East Harlem, NY to Harrisonburg, VA. She has a passion for storytelling and accessibility, believing that all voices deserve to be heard, read, seen, and felt. In her free time, she enjoys exploring new places, people watching, and trying new things! She is committed to fostering an environment where all humans feel safe and supported enough to spread their wings wherever they choose to go next. She aims in any environment to learn just as much as she teaches, and receive just as much as she shares. Bri came to BUGS to continue this work in the Brooklyn (and beyond!) community, and feels grateful to be a part of the BUGS family.

7th Grade Math Teacher

Carol is making her way to BUGS all the way from the stunning landscapes of Alberta, Canada. Having embarked on her teaching journey in 2007, Carol brings a wealth of experience from various settings and roles to the BUGS community. Armed with a special education degree from the University of Alberta, her true passion lies in supporting students from diverse backgrounds and with varying learning needs. When she’s not teaching, you’ll find her swimming, getting lost in a good read, or working on her pottery. This position at BUGS marks her first teaching assignment beyond the Canadian borders. Exciting times are ahead!

6th Grade Science Teacher

Cathy Smith brings her curiosity, love of travel, adventure, and caring for people and the planet to teaching 6th grade science at BUGS. Cathy was born in Brooklyn and earned a Bachelor of Science in Special Studies at St. Francis College, followed by a Master’s Certificate in Human Resources, and then a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership at Southern New Hampshire University. In 2018 she began her teaching career at Hyde Leadership Charter School in Brooklyn and has been teaching science at both the middle school and elementary school levels ever since. She is a life-long learner who loves nature and can spend hours observing it. Cathy is excited about working with the students, and learning from them. She is honored to be one of your children's teachers and grateful for the opportunity to grow at BUGS.

8th Grade Social Studies Teacher, Social Studies Department Chair & NJHS Advisor

Devon is passionate about both classroom and field-based education and is excited to be at a school that combines the two. She is a graduate of Stanford University with a B.A. in History and an M.A. in Earth Systems Environmental Communication. Outside of school she enjoys crafting of all types, spending time with her two pet rabbits, going on camping trips, and playing board games.

Bio Coming Soon!

7th Grade Writing Teacher & Reading Department Chair

Dyllan graduated from the University of Colorado, Boulder with BA’s in English & Japanese and from Relay Graduate School of Education with an MA in Education. He is a New York-certified Middle School Generalist and High School Language Arts Specialist with several years of experience in a variety of contexts including English education in Japan, Montessori education for Grades PK-8, and special services and generalist in ELA education at network charter schools.

In his free time, you can find him writing poetry; learning living, dying, and dead languages; and tending to his plants

7th Grade Sustainable Design Teacher

Tap (she/they) is happy to be back at BUGS for their fiftth year of Sustainability class! She has a degree in Environmental Studies from the University of Vermont and loves supporting students as they build and expand their relationship to the natural world. They enjoy planning lessons that get students outside exploring the world around them and have a commitment to sharing many perspectives on what sustainability means. Outside of school, you might find Tap sitting in the sun, exploring the woods, or listening to music.

8th Grade Writing Teacher

Estelle is thrilled to join BUGS as an 8th-grade writing teacher. She graduated from Relay GSE with a Master's in Childhood Education, and this is her 5th year in teaching. She came to BUGS because she was drawn to the school's commitment to sustainability and community. Outside of school, you can find her traveling, drawing, and attending shows.

7th Grade Math Teacher

Ms. B graduated from UC Davis with a Bachelors of Science in Sustainable Environmental Design and is currently pursuing their Masters of Childhood Education in Math at Brooklyn College. Ms.B has worked as an urban farmer, art teacher, and teaching aid for students with disabilities. Ms.B is genderfluid and uses she/they/he pronouns. 

Sustainable Design Teacher

Hanna Jane (she/they) is thrilled to be teaching sustainability and all it encompasses at BUGS! They grew up upstate, near Albany, and graduated from Bard College with their B.A. in Environmental & Urban Studies and Written Arts along with their Master’s in Environmental Education. Hanna has experience working for the Cloud Institute that developed the Education for Sustainability (EfS) standards and strongly believes in their wisdom. in her free time, she enjoys going on long hikes, biking, exploring new places, writing, and listening to people tell stories. She comes to BUGS with a passion for social justice and anti-colonial perspectives on the world we share and the conviction that middle schoolers can create huge change.

Teaching Assistant

James grew up in Brooklyn and is thrilled to be joining the BUGS team as a Teacher in Residence in Technology and a teaching assistant. After graduating from Swarthmore College with a dual degree in History and Computer Science, they worked as a software engineer for six years before coming to BUGS. James enjoys biking, walking and sitting around in Prospect Park, playing and listening to music, and reading about history and politics. James is excited to learn from the students at BUGS, and to grow our understanding of the world and our place in it.