Member of the Month
In celebration of all that you do, NYS TESOL launched the Member of the Month program at the 2014 Annual Conference to honor and recognize the volunteer service of our members. The many diverse and valuable contributions above and beyond ones daily job support our colleagues and our students and their families.
- Do you know a super teacher who spends hours of after school time supporting his/ her students with classwork, extra-curricular activities or college and scholarship applications?
Is there someone in your network who is always available as the go-to person for anyone who has questions about ELLs or TESOL?
Do you have a colleague who volunteers regularly to serve on committees in support of our educator colleagues or our ELL students?
- Eligibility: Nominee is a current NYS TESOL Member.
Selection Criteria: Nominee demonstrates a commitment to the field.
Rewards: In addition to 12 months of recognition on our website, each year the 12 Members of the Month will be entered into a Raffle for a complimentary registration to the NYS TESOL Annual Conference.
Process: Click the link above and tell us about your nominee's contributions to the field and/or our community of educators and students. The NYS TESOL membership committee will review the entries and select the monthly winner!
NYS TESOL is pleased to announce that Deborah Levy is our Member of the Month for November 2025!
It is her sincere belief that multi-language learners enrich our society in countless ways. This belief motivated her to become an ENL Teacher. While she has worked throughout K–12 in the past decade, she has settled into the high school level in more recent years. Working with adolescents has been rewarding since she is able to work with students for multiple years and thereby truly get to know them and their families. She feels that she is uniquely qualified to support them from the acclimation process to graduation and beyond.
Her most impactful moments as an ENL Teacher include motivating students and contributing to the larger school community. For example, she assisted a student who arrived from Guatemala alone, with no family or friends and with very little English, by helping him secure affordable housing while teaching him English. Currently, that student is enrolled in nursing school and is looking forward to a career in the service of others.
To broaden the horizons of middle school and high school students, she secured a speaker from South Sudan, who visited the district multiple times to share real-life experiences in the time of civil war. Both ELLs and Gen Ed students marvelled at his ability to persevere under duress and his willingness to give back to the Sudanese community. Within the ENL Program, she developed and taught a two-week summer theater course. In addition, she partnered with the Guidance Department to create an ENL Mentoring Program, whereby Junior and Senior ELLs provide guidance to freshmen ELLs. This year, she is serving as an Instructional Leader for the district. Throughout her career, she has never lost sight of her motivation for becoming an ENL Teacher: she always strives to help students reach their full potential so that they can, in turn, enrich the community.
When asked about why she values her membership in NYS TESOL, she wrote, “I am grateful for NYS TESOL, which has provided me with a plethora of inspiring leaders in the field of multi-language learners. In particular, the speakers and seminar leaders at the NYS TESOL Annual Conference have shared much wisdom and experience that has directly translated into improvements in my teaching practices.”
NYS TESOL is proud to honor Deborah Levy as our November 2025 Member of the Month. Her passion, love, and dedication have left a lasting impact on her students, colleagues, and school community.
Congratulations, Deborah!
NYS TESOL is pleased to announce that Michael Duffy is our Member of the Month for October 2025!
Michael Duffy is currently the Senior Supervisor of Professional Development at Erie 1 BOCES. In this role, he oversees six professional development teams, including the Instructional Resource Team, CSLO/Model Schools team, West Regional Partnership Center, Regional Bilingual Education Resource Network (RBERN) West, Creating Healthy Schools and Communities, and Sexual Health. In this role, he strives to foster collaboration across teams and ensure the 65 professional development coordinators work together to address the needs of all students in the schools the teams serve. Prior to this role, he was the Executive Director of the RBERN West, a coordinator on the RBERN West team, an instructional coach and program coordinator within the Division of Multilingual Education at Buffalo Public Schools, and an ESL teacher at International School #45 and Herman Badillo Bilingual Academy #76. He was also the Interim Program Director for the Bilingual Education/TESOL Program at Canisius University. He has served as an adjunct professor at both Canisius University and the University at Buffalo in their TESOL teacher preparation and teacher residency programs. He has presented at NYSTESOL and been an active conference planning member for NYSABE (New York State Association for Bilingual Education). He has certificates of advanced study in School Building and District Leadership from St. Bonaventure University and a Master of Education degree and Bachelor of Arts degree from the University at Buffalo.
When asked about his inspiration to become an ESL teacher, he wrote, “During my undergraduate studies, I had the opportunity to study abroad in France. As a component of that experience, there was a service-learning component that included volunteering to teach English at a local high school. I found that experience unexpectedly rewarding, and upon returning to the US, looked for opportunities to pursue similar experiences. Through an internship with the Linguistics Department at the University at Buffalo (UB), I worked at Grover Cleveland International High School (currently named International Prep at Grover) alongside experienced, dedicated, and passionate ESL teachers. This opened my eyes to the diversity in my newly adopted city of Buffalo. I excitedly pursued a Masters in ESOL Initial/Professional with the goal of teaching in Buffalo Public Schools.”
We are thrilled that NYS TESOL membership has been part of his journey! When asked why he is a member, he wrote, “Since my early years as a teacher, I have understood the importance of professional organizations like NYSTESOL to bring like-minded advocates together to learn and advocate for the needs of a vulnerable population of students. Whether through collaborative initiatives with NYSABE, attending and presenting at conferences, or retooling to support teachers during a pandemic, NYSTESOL has been a constant source of support for me and my colleagues. I especially appreciate the focus on research and evidence-based practices, practical supports and resources, and access to an inviting professional circle.”
Michael’s role follows with his philosophy, “We are more effective when we work together. Organizations like NYSTESOL keep us in community together, whether we are the lone ENL teacher in our district, a new teacher in the field, a veteran looking for support as they navigate regulatory changes, a staff developer looking for new ideas to share with teachers, an administrator looking to stay current on best practices and laws, or a faculty member looking to align practices in teacher preparation with the current realities in K-12 schools. I have been in many of those roles, and I have always trusted the leadership and collective support from the NYSTESOL organization and membership.” We are grateful for that trust!
Again, NYS TESOL is proud to honor Michael Duffy as our October 2025 Member of the Month. His dedication, leadership, and heart have left a lasting impact on his students, colleagues, region, state and beyond!
Congratulations, Mike!
NYS TESOL is pleased to announce that Tammy Schillinger is our Member of the Month for September 2025!
Dr. Tammy Schillinger holds a doctorate in Early Childhood Education, a master’s degree in Elementary Education Pre-K–6, and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. She is certified in Elementary Education (Pre-K–6) and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). For the past 23 years, she has dedicated her career to teaching in a school in upstate New York and currently serves as an ENL (English as a New Language) teacher. As an ENL teacher, Dr. Schillinger’s passion lies in engaging in education both as a student and as a scholar. Her educational philosophy is rooted in the belief of developing future leaders, and she focuses on implementing evidence-based best practices that encourage student learning and development. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the connections between education and the social and cultural factors that influence learning outcomes. Recognizing that students come from diverse backgrounds, she is committed to addressing these influences as a focal point for academic success. Inspired by Janet Gonzalez-Mena’s statement, “let the student be the teacher,” Dr. Schillinger believes that the educational environment at all levels should be learner-centered and built on collaboration between students and teachers.
When asked about her journey into ENL teaching, she wrote that it, “began with a strong interest and a genuine desire to help others feel understood and empowered.” She continued saying, “Early on in my teaching career, I witnessed how language barriers can limit opportunities and isolate students. Helping a student find their voice in a new language, watching them gain confidence, navigate their environment, and connect with others has always been incredibly rewarding.” She continued telling us, “What truly strengthened my decision was working with English learners and witnessing their resilience and growth. Helping a student grasp a new concept or express themselves in a new language is incredibly fulfilling. That sense of impact and knowing I can help someone navigate a new language continues to inspire me every day.” We wholeheartedly agree with Tammy!
When asked about the benefits of being a member of NYS TESOL, she report that it “has been a valuable part of my professional growth. Being part of this organization has connected me with a diverse and supportive community of educators across the state who share ideas, challenges, and best practices.” We are thrilled to hear that! She also said that, “[It] has encouraged me to grow not only as a teacher but also as a learner and leader. Being part of a community of educators who are just as passionate about language learning and advocacy has been both motivating and enriching Most importantly, NYS TESOL has provided me with a platform to grow as a reflective practitioner and leader.
NYS TESOL is proud to honor Tammy Schillinger as our September 2025 Member of the Month. Her dedication, leadership, and heart have left a lasting impact on her students, colleagues, and school community.
Congratulations, Tammy!
NYS TESOL is pleased to announce that Leigh Kamola is our Member of the Month for August 2025!
Leigh has always had a deep passion for learning about languages and cultures. Before becoming an ENL teacher in the Gates Chili School District, she taught high school Italian and Spanish for over 15 years. When her school's ENL program began to grow rapidly, her principal recognized that, in addition to her Italian and Spanish certifications, Leigh also held a TESOL certification. He encouraged her to transition to the ENL department. Though it was a difficult decision, it’s one she has never regretted. Since then, Leigh has served as the teacher leader of her high school’s ENL department, helping guide its continued growth through collaboration with general education teachers, school counselors, and administrators—all with a steadfast focus on supporting student success.
As an ENL teacher, Leigh strives to learn about each student's heritage and culture. She treats her students with the same care and respect she gives her own son: with high expectations, a guiding hand, and a good sense of humor.
Leigh is a passionate advocate for her students, while also empowering them to advocate for themselves. She consistently goes above and beyond, whether by introducing students to future career paths or supporting a student facing challenges after a trip to his home country. This year, she played a key role in promoting the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Youth Leadership Institute (PRHYLI) at her school, resulting in two students excelling in the program and attending the culminating event in Albany.
Leigh was also instrumental in launching her high school’s Seal of Biliteracy program seven years ago. She actively encourages students to pursue the Seal in their home languages and finds joy in witnessing the pride that accomplishment brings to both students and their families.
NYS TESOL is proud to honor Leigh Kamola as our August 2025 Member of the Month. Her dedication, leadership, and heart have left a lasting impact on her students, colleagues, and school community.
Congratulations, Leigh!
Anlun Wang is a Ph.D. candidate in Language Education at the Warner School of Education, University of Rochester. Her work lies at the intersection of second language acquisition, technology-assisted language learning, and digital literacy, exploring how multilingual learners engage with creative writing, identity construction, and participatory fan cultures in English online spaces. She has published several articles and presented at national conferences.
With a strong commitment to language education and learner agency, Anlun Wang has served as a k-12 ESL instructor, academic writing tutor, and curriculum assistant across multiple institutions. She has experience teaching students in both academic and community-based contexts, with a special focus on fostering critical literacy, multilingual identity development, and culturally responsive pedagogy. She is passionate about creating inclusive, collaborative learning environments that validate learners’ linguistic and cultural resources.
Outside of teaching and research, Anlun Wang is actively involved in professional organizations including NYS TESOL, where she seeks to connect with fellow educators and researchers dedicated to expanding understanding of global Englishes, linguistic equity, and learner voice. She is also an advocate for bridging the gap between formal language instruction and informal, interest-driven literacies, particularly in the realms of fanfiction, online translation, and youth digital writing practices.
When asked about her inspiration, she wrote, "My journey to becoming an ESL teacher was inspired by my deep interest in multilingual communication and the lived experience of language learners." Anlun grew up as an ESL learner and continued navigating academic spaces in a second language. She wrote, "I became aware of the emotional, cultural, and intellectual challenges that come with learning English. This empathy shaped both my research and teaching philosophy, grounding me in a learner-centered, inclusive approach that values students' diverse linguistic and cultural identities. Teaching ESL became a way for me to support students as they develop not just academic skills, but also confidence and voice in a new language."
NYS TESOL has played a vital role in her professional development. She wrote,
“Through its conferences, publications, and member community, I’ve found a space to engage with current issues in the field, connect with like-minded educators and scholars, and present my own research in a supportive environment. NYS TESOL has helped me stay grounded in practice while also thinking critically and expansively about the evolving role of English language teaching in today’s global, digital world. It has been both a source of inspiration and a professional home.” We are thrilled to have fulfilled this role!
NYS TESOL is thrilled to celebrate Anlun Wang as the July 2025 NYS TESOL Member of the Month!
After 32 years of dedicated service as an elementary teacher in Brentwood UFSD, Mrs. Giroux will be retiring this June—leaving behind a legacy of compassion, excellence, and unwavering commitment to her students and colleagues.
For the past ten years, Dr. Christine Seebach has had the privilege of being her co-teacher, and in that time, she has witnessed firsthand the magic she brings to the classroom each day! Whether she's leading lessons, supporting ENL students and their families, or organizing after-school events, Mrs. Giroux brings unmatched energy, heart, and humor to everything she does.
She has not only served as a trusted union delegate, but also as a true partner in creating an inclusive and welcoming learning environment. Her advocacy for English Language Learners/Multilingual Learners is deeply embedded in her daily practice, and her belief in every child’s potential is what has made her a beloved figure in the Brentwood community.
Her organizational skills, quick problem-solving, and ability to make everyone around her feel seen and valued are just part of what makes her so special. Her boundless kindness and classic sense of humor have left a lasting impression on over 800 students, many of whom still return to Oak Park Elementary School to visit her and share the moments she made them feel like the most important person in the room.
Mrs. Giroux is more than deserving of this recognition—not only for her decades of dedicated service, but for the countless lives she’s touched along the way. Dr. Christine Seebach wrote in her nomination, “Let’s send her off into retirement with the love and recognition she so richly deserves.”
NYS TESOL is thrilled to celebrate Deana Giroux as the June 2025 NYS TESOL Member of the Month!
Dr. Allison Teicher-Fahrbach is an educational leader, researcher, and author with extensive expertise in trauma-informed education and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). She has spent years implementing trauma-responsive practices in various urban school settings, supporting students affected by complex trauma, and leading different professional development workshops on creating safe, healing-centered learning environments. Her trauma-informed approach in different schools is grounded in neuroscience, restorative practices, and social-emotional learning. She has designed various classroom lessons and school-wide systems that promote resilience, regulation, social-emotional, and academic success for all learners. Her work empowers educators to recognize the impact of adverse childhood experiences and shift school culture to prioritize student well-being.
In addition to her work in trauma-informed education, Dr. Teicher-Fahrbach has published multiple self-help and poetry books and has been featured in local, national, and international poetry anthologies. She is well-versed in curriculum design and multiple forms of writing, having developed and taught a wide range of classes and workshops at the high school, college, and adult education levels. She frequently presents at local, national, and international conferences, sharing insights on trauma-responsive instruction, equity in multilingual education, and culturally sustaining pedagogy. In the ENL classroom, she has created inclusive, language-rich environments that support language acquisition through storytelling, project-based learning, and social-emotional development. While her research centers on trauma, mental health, and multilingual learners, she is equally passionate about writing and fostering creative opportunities for future storytellers.
When asked about her inspiration to become an ESL educator, she wrote, “it stems from being one of the many teachers within my family. Over decades, various members of my family have inspired and encouraged students to develop a sincere appreciation for learning, reading, writing, and literacy. I desire to create inclusive spaces where multilingual learners feel seen, valued, and empowered. I have witnessed how various challenges that ENL students face are compounded by the effects of trauma. I yearn to create meaningful academic, social, emotional, and professional opportunities for multilingual learners.”
When asked about how NYS TESOL helped her in her journey, she wrote, “NYS TESOL is a community of professionals who consistently work toward the same goal: supporting our youth and building bridges between language, identity, and access. The organization has played a vital role in my professional growth by providing a platform to learn from and collaborate with others across the state and beyond. Through its resources and collaborative networks, I have gained valuable insights into current research, instructional strategies, and policy advocacy. NYS TESOL has empowered me to be a stronger voice for multilingual learners and to help lead shifts grounded in equity, empathy, and excellence.” We appreciate your kind words!
NYS TESOL is thrilled to celebrate Dr. Allison Teicher-Fahrbach as the May 2025 NYS TESOL Member of the Month!
Ariana Rosario is the English as a New Language Coordinator for the North Syracuse Central School District, where she brings over ten years of experience supporting multilingual learners. Throughout her career, Ariana has served in various instructional and leadership roles that center on empowering English Language Learners academically, socially, and emotionally.
Ariana holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish with a concentration in Childhood Inclusive Education from SUNY Brockport. She went on to earn a Master of Science in TESOL from Syracuse University and recently completed her Certificate of Advanced Studies in Educational Leadership from Le Moyne College. With aspirations of becoming a school administrator, Ariana is committed to fostering inclusive environments that prioritize equity and cultural responsiveness.
She has facilitated numerous professional development workshops focused on best practices for working with ELLs, and has participated in key district and state-level committees, including NYSESLAT review teams, Building Planning Teams, and professional learning communities. Ariana also completed a research study examining the overidentification of ELLs as students with disabilities. She is deeply passionate about creating systems of support that are culturally and linguistically appropriate for all students.
A passionate educator and advocate, Ariana believes in the power of building strong relationships with students and families to help all learners thrive. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys spending time with her family, friends, and her dog, Lucia. She loves to travel, hike, explore new cultures, and sample as many new foods as possible.
When asked about her passion for teaching English Language Learners, she said she is “deeply rooted in my personal experiences with my own family. I was inspired to become an ENL teacher after witnessing the challenges my family members faced while learning English and the discrimination they sometimes encountered because of it. From a young age, I became their advocate, which helped me understand the power of language and the value of being bilingual.”
When asked how NYS TESOL has played a vital role in your teaching journey, she said it “helped me find my voice as an educator, advocate and administrator. It has also allowed me to build meaningful connections with passionate educators across the state who share a commitment to supporting multilingual learners."
NYS TESOL is thrilled to celebrate Ariana Rosario as the March 2025 NYS TESOL Member of the Month!
Nicole Duncan has been teaching English as a New Language (ENL) for the past 16 years in the Greece Central School District. Every year reminds her why she loves this work so much. Watching students grow into confident, curious learners - and seeing families feel empowered and included in their children's education - continues to inspire her every day.
Before becoming a teacher, she worked in marketing and advertising, both locally and in New York City. That background gave her a strong foundation in communication, creativity, and collaboration - all of which she now brings into the classroom. Whether it's designing engaging lessons or connecting with students and families from diverse backgrounds, she strives to make learning both meaningful and joyful.
One of the most rewarding parts of her role has been serving on the district's ENL Intake Committee. Together, they have worked hard to ensure that every new student feels welcomed and supported from day one. In 2024, the committee has the exciting opportunity to present their intake process at the NY TESOL conference - a proud moment that reminded her how powerful collaboration can be.
She cares deeply about equity and believes that every student deserves access to a rigorous, inclusive curriculum - regardless of their language background. Her classroom is a place where students are encouraged to take risks, express themselves, and feel truly seen. Just as importantly, she wants families to feel they're part of the learning process - valued, informed, and heard.
Upon hearing she won this honor, she wrote, "Being recognized as NY TESOL's Member of the Month is an incredible honor. I'm so grateful to be part of a community that shares my passion for multilingual leaners and continues to push for excellence and equity in education."
We are thrilled to honor Nicole Duncan as NYS TESOL's February 2025 Member of the Month!
Celebrating Our Past Members of the Month
