Today is National Teacher Appreciation Day. On this occasion, we show appreciation for teachers everywhere. At The Mirror, we thank Northwood’s teachers for their time and dedication to us, the students of Northwood.
Thank you!
– The Staff of The Mirror
Mr. Brantley Beach
“I started this year without knowing who Brantley Beach was,” Zach Wargo ’25 said. “At the first ski team workout, Brantley and I were introduced. We said hello, exchanged names, and went about our business. However, as the year passed, Brantley would become part of the Northwood ski community. He came on hikes with us, ate meals in the dining hall, and was always around for a good talk. At the end of the year, I think of Brantley as a part of our Northwood family. I know I can count on him for any ski questions or insight into how the local bike trails are riding. Brantley has become a core member of our ski team, and I know everybody will be glad to have him back for another school year,” Wargo added.
Mr. Tommy Biesemeyer
“Tommy Biesemeyer is truly remarkable,” said Sydney Kuder ‘25. “Tommy’s work ethic inspires us all. He always pushes us to our fullest potential and never lets us take the easy way out!” Kuder said.
“Tommy’s constant encouragement propels me beyond my perceived boundaries,” Anja Robertson ’26 said. “I remember when we ran up Whitney Road here in Lake Placid. His presence and companionship helped me get through this hard workout,” Robertson added.
Mr. Tom Broderick
“Brody has done so much for me over the past five years, and I can’t thank him enough,” said Jack Spiegel ‘24.” He’s been a huge help with so many things and gave me the feeling of having another person to look out for me like a parent would. I’m very grateful for everything he’s done for me during my time here, and I know the support will continue.”
“Brody is the heart of Northwood,” said Kristen Kiggen ‘24. “He always ensures that everything behind the scenes is running smoothly. I always look forward to going to “Brodypalooza” at the beginning of each school year,” Kiggen added.
Ms. Noel Carmichael
“I have had Ms. Carmichael for two years now,” Jackson Magnus ’26 said. “Ms. Carmichael is genuinely motivational when it comes to academics. She’s able to understand your goals even when you can’t. She loves teaching and can make learning fun and engaging,“ Magnus added.
“Mrs. Carmichael has made my Northwood experience the best it could have been,” Bella Norris ’24 said. “The transition was seamless and I will always be grateful for her. I am so happy she has been my advisor and that I have been able to get to know her better over these past two years. I wish her all the best and I hope to see her after graduation!”
Mr. Jose Coss
“Jose Coss had been my biggest supporter this year,” Max Notley ’27 said. “Every day on the football pitch and in the classroom, he always works hard. It is inspiring how far he has come as a coach and teacher. Profe Coss Illuminates any room he steps into with a light of joy, enthusiasm, and compassion. I cannot say how much I appreciate learning from him,” Notley added.
“Coach Coss is an incredible person and teacher,” Said El-Eyssami said. “He has mentored me this year on and off the field. The special thing about Coach Coss is that he has the personality of a friend and the maturity of a teacher, so it’s very fun to hang around him while he also keeps you accountable. I’m very grateful to have Coach Coss as my mentor and coach in the field and outside of it because he has helped me a lot this year to become the best version of myself. I’m very grateful to have such an exceptional person as a coach,” El-Eyssami added.
Mr. Andy Donatello
“Donny helped me with an injury during the ski season that made me heal fast and get back to skiing,” Lucas Smith ’26 said. “Donny’s jokes and advice can change the day, and he is one of the most reliable people here at Northwood. He has given me golf advice and more,” Smith added.
Mr. Bob Emery
“Mr. Emery’s impact on students is unbelievable,” senior Devin Shakar said. “I have never had a teacher as enthusiastic as he is in a subject. Every time I walk into his class, I know there will be an idea I never even thought of, like 1s and 0s. After his accident, we were all extremely worried, but when we found out he was going to make a full recovery, we started counting down the days till he was back. Not because our subs were bad, but because of his energy and passion for his students and teaching, and we all missed it and missed him! I can’t thank him enough for everything,” Shakar added,
Ms. Marcy Fagan
“Ms. Fagan has been my teacher for two years now. I first had her as a teacher in my first year at Northwood for Biology,” Hamish Riddell ’26 said. “I did not know how I would find it as I was starting a new school, didn’t know anyone, and wasn’t sure how my future here would look. From the get-go, Ms. Fagan made sure I was situated and guided me through the class superbly. She is one of those teachers who tries to make the class as exciting as possible. I can see that from this year in Adirondack Sciences. I have her again for this class, and it has been nothing short of an adventure. Ms. Fagan constantly plans field trips and gets us out of the classroom. I will not lie; sometimes, these field trips coincide with other plans, but the fact that Ms. Fagan is actively trying to engage her students and create an exciting classroom vibe is something not many teachers do. I have felt this for two years as her student and cannot thank her enough. She is kind and thoughtful and a great teacher. Like many students, I have had some ups and downs during classes, but I genuinely appreciate Ms. Fagan’s hard work and how she embodies her class,” Riddell added.
Ms. Andrea Farrell
“Ms. Farrell has always been a great help to me when I was away for ski races,” Lea Lambert ’24 said. “Her patience and dedication make her an exceptional teacher,“ added Lambert.
“Ms. Farrell takes the time to get to know your personality and learning style, then teaches you accordingly. I am grateful to have her as a teacher,” said Eliza Quackenbush ’25.
Mr. Justin Felhaber
“Mr. Felhaber has influenced my high school career. I’ve known Felly for 3 years now, and I’ve gotten to know him as a person on and off the ice. Not only has he shown me a guided path to success athletically and academically, but he’s also been a sincere friend to me. For that, I am forever grateful,” Hayden Newman ’24 said.
Mr. Aaron Garvey
“Mr. Garvey has been very helpful in my Peak Pathway endeavor this year,” Jordan Shullenberger ’24 said. “His willingness to share his experiences and knowledge inspires young academics like me,” he added. “On top of all this, he’s a very agreeable fellow and is the type of guy you’d want to be your chill uncle that you get to see twice a year at a family gathering,” Shullenberger said.
“He’s a good man, and I learned much about fishing with him in the fly-fishing LEAP. I learned how to fish, clean, and eat it, and we had a lot of fun,” said Elm Pentinat ‘24.
Mr. Trevor Gilligan
“Gilly is big on open communication, and it’s been nice to talk to him and get some advice about life, school, college hockey, or anything that is giving me stress,” said Katie Demers ’24. “He’s good about seeing the person inside me. He gives me a reality check without all the emotion and drama that sometimes comes with girls’ hockey. On the ice, he is our biggest critic and biggest fan. He’s the first person to yell at us when we do something wrong, but if you do it right, he’ll give you great feedback. My dad has been my coach for most of my life. I see my dad in Gilly. He gives me tough love, which is what I need,” added Demers.
“Gilly, is an incredible coach,” said junior Hilary Wilkin. “I can’t thank him enough for his support over the past two years. He has always believed in me, invested in my growth, and pushed me to be a better hockey player and person every day.”
Mr. Ben LeBlanc
“Mr. LeBlanc has impacted me since the day I came to Northwood,” Emma Hathaway ’24 said. “He started off as my fitness center coco leader and always made that time enjoyable. I was lucky to be in his data science class this year. LeBlanc will always go above and beyond to help his students understand the material and the process to achieve an outcome. But Leblanc doesn’t just make an impact on my life at Northwood. He impacts all the students and extends beyond the classroom. I will miss him as I move into my next chapter. I will forever be thankful for him and the things he does at Northwood,” Hathaway shared.
Mr. Shawn Lynch
“What I value in Lynchie is the positive energy he has and the relationship he builds with his players,: Parker Asbridge ’24 said. “I like Lynchie’s approach to coaching and that he cares more about his day-to-day relationship with his players. I think he brings a different perspective than coaches I’ve had in the past, and I feel like I can be more open and more myself around him because he’s been in the same shoes as me,” Asbridge added.
Ms. Marge Maher
“I appreciate that I can always say “Hi” to Marge and talk to her whenever I need to,” said Sophia Schupp ‘24. “She’s always been there for me whenever I need her, and I appreciate her for everything she does for me and the school,” Schupp added.
Mr. Steve Mallaro
“Coach Mallaro is a great guy and a great coach. He wants the best for everyone. He’s gonna push you to get better and wants to see the team succeed. He’s dedicated and always makes time for you if you want to watch game film or talk about the weekend or school. He’s a competitor and has made me a better hockey player and person,” Schneid added.
Mr. Jeff Martin
“Mr. Martin, McFly as we call him, is an outstanding teacher and extraordinarily kind person. I consider him a friend who has always challenged my ideas and encouraged my growth at Northwood. I appreciate everything he has done for me in and out of school. Northwood School would be lost without him!” senior Mitchell Tuttle shared.
Ms. Sytske Martin
“Mrs. Martin is an amazingly friendly librarian who helps us all,” Colin Kis ’24 said. “I always enjoy talking with her in the library, and I want to thank her for creating such a comfortable and quiet environment optimal for completing homework. I will miss having her as a librarian and being in a library as lovely as hers,” Kis added.
Mr. Kelvin Martinez
“Coach Martinez has been my coach for the entirety of my Northwood career,” Mitchell Baker ‘24 said. “He helped me settle in when I came here and guided me down a bright path. Martinez is the reason I am the player I am today. I am grateful for everything he has done for me and the club. He is also a great father and has raised three brilliant kids.”
“Coach Martinez taught me Spanish last year and was my coach for the first two years of my Northwood career,” Trey Franz said. “As a teacher, he helped me find passion in language. As a coach, he mentored me through difficult times and always demanded the maximum from me. I am grateful for his impact on my life,” Frantz added.
Mr. David McCauley
“Mr. McCauley works very hard for us,” said Jordan Shullenberger ‘24.” When it comes to college and apps like SCOIR and the Common App, we know nothing, and he works patiently with every senior to make sure that we get to where we want to go,” he added. “I came to Northwood in January of 2023, and he got me through the process in two semesters. He spends most of his winter days working double-time for the benefit of the seniors. Everyone owes him some thanks. Not to mention, he is a very nice man as well,” Shullenberger added.
“He helped me with my college process, even over the summer when he didn’t have to. He has been a great resource for me in my college process and is part of why I can graduate and go to college early. I also like how he’s part of the community, and I’ve gotten to know his son through the Black Rock community training camps,” Mitch Baker ’24 said.
Mr. Jon Moodey
“I am grateful to have Coach Moodey as my coach,” said Mitchell Baker ‘24. “This year was a big transition year for me, and he was always there to push me to my limits. As a player I learn new things from him every day that have taken my game to a new level. As a person, he has taught me key values of leadership and mental toughness, which have helped me a lot. Thank you, Coach Moodey.”
“Coach Moodey is a big role model for me,” Sachiel MIng ‘24 said. “I respect him a lot and always try to do my best for him. He has helped me a lot throughout my time at Northwood. I am glad I could play for two years under him, as he has changed my life.”
Ms. Martina Moodey
“Mrs. Moodey welcomed me as soon as I arrived. She was always there for me and is always positive,” Mitchell Baker ‘24 said. “I was able to stay at her house during Thanksgiving break last year, which was unreal. She also puts a lot of work into the program and is an unsung hero. I am incredibly grateful for Mrs. Moodey.
“Mrs. Moodey does a lot of background work for our program,” Leo Doyle ‘25 said. “You can call her the backbone of the program. Much of her work is stressful and unseen, but we appreciate her as she is incredibly supportive and makes us feel at home from the beginning.”
Mr. Jeff Miller
“Mr.Miller has been my coach for two years now, and I cannot remember a day he was not there for me or anyone at this school,” Will Dallaire ’24 said. “Following my injury last year, he always checked in on me and ensured I was all right. Coach Miller is also a good person to talk to regarding hockey, problems, and life. His office is always open to us if we need to talk to him. He listens to us carefully and gives good advice. After my time at Northwood, I will remember Coach Miller as someone passionate, generous, and caring about the people surrounding him. Thanks Milsy,” said Dallaire.
Mr. Bobby O’Connor
“I love Bobby. I’ve learned so much from him over the years. He’s been one of the most influential figures in my life, and he’s sparked many of my interests,” Avery Novia ’24 said.
“I haven’t gotten to spend a ton of time with Mr. O’Connor, but I appreciate what he does,” Jordan Shullenberger ’24 said.. I think it’s essential for young people to spend much time outside doing various activities. He takes students from all demographic backgrounds on adventures. If I wasn’t a soccer player, I would certainly join NOC,” added Shullenberger.
Ms. Heather Odell
Ms. Odell is known for being a bright and happy teacher,” Hamish Riddell ‘26 said. “I have experienced both this and her other side during the year I’ve had her as my Humanities teacher. When I have not caught up on my reading or slacking behind in class, Ms. Odell is always there to push me in the right direction in a light-hearted, joking, yet serious way. She engages each student in class and has a way of leaving a mark on a student. I have thoroughly enjoyed going to class this year in Humanities and am truly grateful for all the work she has put in. She is a great teacher and a good person,” Riddell added.
Ms. Stacy Prime
“Ms. Prime’s outgoingness and kindness foster a positive environment for everyone in the class and make it fun to learn,” Gavin Kruger ’26 said. “I liked her IEE class, and it taught me how to go about making a product, which is something I can use in the future. I thank Ms. Prime, and I’m very grateful for her,” he added.
Mr. Steve Reed
“This year, I have gotten to know Reno. He has not been my teacher for anything, but his presence has always made my day,” Mitchell Baker said. “His creativity when making jokes is unreal; he can find anything to make a joke out of. The contagious laugh is usually funnier than the joke itself. Reno helped me with my college essays this year, which helped me get into Georgetown. I spent a lot of time with him reviewing several sentences and ideas. Thank you, Reno.”
“Reno was my AP Literature teacher this year. I am not a big English guy, but he has made the subject very entertaining, and I often look forward to going to class,” Koah Paye ‘25 said. “His constant positive energy makes the class fun. I look forward to getting to know him more next year through my college process. I am very grateful for Reno.”
Mr. Gino Riffle
“Gino has always been a great person to me and is great to talk to,” Gus Garvey ’25 said. “I remember my freshman year when he would always come to talk to me the morning after the Bills would choke on national television. He can be very firm at times, but it’s made me a more careful, thoughtful person in the long run, and I appreciate it very much,” Garvey added.
Ms. Leigh Riffle
“I am incredibly grateful for the guidance and support that Gezty has provided me throughout my academic journey,” Loélie Lachapelle ’26 said. “Her passion for teaching and dedication to her students have inspired me to strive for excellence in everything I do. Getzy’s ability to make learning engaging and enjoyable has greatly impacted my education and personal development. I am thankful for her belief in my potential and always encouraging me to reach for the stars. Her mentorship has shaped my academic success and instilled in me a lifelong love for learning,” Lachapelle added.
“I want to thank Ms. Riffle as she has helped me a lot during this school year,” Anthony Wan ’26 said. “She knows that English is my second language, so she always makes sure I understand the class every time. She’s also always very patient, listening to my questions during class. When I see her in school, she always says hi to me. It makes me feel comfortable. I appreciate her help,” he added.
Ms. Hanna Rose
“I love Ms. Rose. She’s always there for me. She helps me with everything. And she’s always a person to talk to,” Jorja Gillis ’25 said. “I agree. I think she’s a great coach, a great teacher, and a great person. She’s not my teacher, but I know all her students love her,” added Oceanne Thiffault Michel ‘26.
Ms. Caroline Roy
“On the road to a small clinic to check my sore throat, a short but meaningful conversation with Ms. Roy positively impacted my sense of belonging in Northwood,” Fi Feng ’24 said. “Even though she’s not one of my teachers, my connection with her showed the power of genuine human interaction in creating a sense of community. I feel like the unexpected encounters with people like Ms. Roy leave a lasting impression, but, most importantly, she helped me feel more at home in a new environment,” Feng added.
Mr. Matt Roy
“Mr. Roy always lets me sit at his table and is always interested in what I am doing,” Alex Randall ‘25 said. “He has taught me how to drive a bobsled, how to roll a kayak, how to build rockets, and how to be a better person.”
“Mr. Roy has been helpful with the artsy stuff that I have been doing at Northwood,” Colton Cushman ‘25 said. He is always there to help me when I need it.”
Mr. Howard Runyon
“This was my first year taking one of Mr. Runyon’s classes, or H as people know him. I took A.P Lang, and because of Mr. Runyon I have found a new passion for reading and writing,” Sydney Kuder ’25 said. “I remember when I was faced with my first rhetorical analysis prompt at the beginning of the year. I had no idea what to do, and I thought to myself, ‘How am I going to manage to write this essay for the exam in May?’ Luckily, H helped me prepare. I can confidently say that I can tackle any rhetorical analysis prompt because of H. His class taught me how to read critically, use proper grammar in my writing, and, most importantly, be confident in my writing. During the summer, we were tasked with reading the book In Patagonia. This was a book that I remember was quite difficult to digest. I spent three weeks reading that book, and by the end, I had only a small recollection of the 200 pages or so I had just finished. Throughout the year, we approached texts similar to those in In Patagonia, with H’s help. I can now read any piece of literature as complex as In Patagonia and comprehend it very well. Not only has H been a wonderful English teacher because of his impressive knowledge in the field, but he is witty, compassionate, and very intelligent. It is a goal of mine to achieve even a fraction of his skill to put pen to paper and construct sentences as easily as breathing,” Kuder added.
Mr. Simon Shergold
“Mr. Shergold is one of the first teachers to make me enjoy and look forward to attending class. He cares about you as a person, not just a student,” Bella Norris ’24 said.
Dr. Reid Smith
“Reid Smith is an amazing teacher who does so much for the students in her humanities research class,” Kristen Kiggen ’24 said. “I haven’t met many teachers who are just as excited as their students about their projects. I have taken this class for two years now, and if I could take it again, I would. I had so much fun and learned much about what I love because of her. Reid always set me on a path to learn more and push myself. I can speak for everyone when her enthusiasm made us want to work hard and enhanced our passion for learning. I wish her all the best in the future and will miss her a lot next year!!!” Kiggen shared.
Mr. John Spear
“Mr. Spear’s presence is cherished by all. His support and understanding make him a reliable person,” said Olivia Levesque ‘24.
“Mr. Spear is a good leader and leads the school to be better every day,” said Edouard Brochu ‘24.
“Mr. Spear prioritizes the well-being and growth of the student body above all else,” added Wyatt Wardlaw ‘24.
Mr. Adam Stewart
“Mr. Stew has been a supportive and inspiring mentor in my journey as a pianist,” Ndhego Zikusoka ’24 said.” Collaborating with him and the rest of the band to play ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’ by Oasis has been a memorable and rewarding experience. Mr. Stew has played an important role in helping me develop my skills and confidence as a pianist. It is through Mr. Stew that I have realized that music has a unique ability to bring people together and create meaningful connections. I am grateful that I had the opportunity to share that experience with Mr. Stew and the rest of the band,” Zikusoka added.
Ms. Ingrid VanSlyke
“I enjoyed being in Ms. Vanslyke’s class because she creates a friendly environment where students can express themselves artistically and literary,” Sam Knauf ’24 said. “Although I don’t speak much in class, the environment created by the students there, especially by Ms. Vanslyke, helped me be in the present. She has taught me a lot this year, and I am extremely grateful for her,” Knauf added.
Ms. Jill Walker
“If I had to pick three words to describe Ms. Walker, I would choose expressive, intelligent, and humorous,” Sophia Miller ‘24 said. “I love her honesty when it comes to her teaching methods. She is more than passionate about her students and the relationship she builds with them.”
“Ms. Walker is very down to earth. Many students feel that they can talk to her about anything, whether schoolwork or more personal,” Avery Novia ‘24 said. “If I could only pick three words to describe Ms. Walker, I would have to go with witty, vivacious, and caring,” Novia added.
“Mrs. Walker has been my favorite teacher this year,” said Abby Monette ’24. “She cares not only about me but also about the entire Northwood community. Before coming to Northwood, I was unsure about what I wanted to study in college. However, after taking Mrs. Walker’s advanced biology class, I decided that I wanted to study biology in college because of how much I enjoyed the class,” she added.
Ms. Carrie Wardlaw
“Carrie Wardlaw has been like a second mother to me since I’ve been away from home. She has always been there to listen to me when I needed someone,” said Sydney Kuder ‘25.
“Her presence illuminates the day for everyone around her,” Olivia Levesque ‘24 said. “I remember when Carrie came to our workouts and would run with us. She inspired me to push my limits,” Levesque added.
Mr. Tim Weaver
“Mr. Weaver is a really good teacher,” said James Martin ’26. “He has been able to teach me the content in chemistry and is always finding effective ways to challenge me. He always can help out if I have questions, and he encourages students to help others, which improves their own understanding.”
“Thank you, Mr. Weaver, for a great school year,” said Hudson Marshall, ‘27. “I enjoyed being in your class and learned a ton. Thank you for your dedication and hard work in preparing us for tests throughout the year. I appreciate you, and thank you. Have a great summer,” Marshall added.
Ms. Raychel West
“Ms. West always does favors for me, like taking us on food runs. She goes out of her way to take us places we need or do favors for us. She is always there to help and support us, and I appreciate everything she does for me and the ski team,” Teegan Wardlaw ’25 said.
Ms. Lisa Wint
“I can’t thank Mrs. Wint enough for all the help she has given me this year!: Clay Fuller ’25 exclaimed. “I was able to grow as a student and as a person, too, with her aid! I love all the things, little and large, that she does to support and help me, the rest of the students, and the Northwood community! I look forward to working with her again for my final year at Northwood!“ Fuller added.
Ms. Tara Wright
“Ms. Wright helps me push through my homework and tells me what needs to be done,” Justin MacLeod ’26 said. “Ms. Wright is a nice teacher who explains things very well. Her presence in the classroom is warm and inviting. She is somewhat like my counselor and helps me make good academic decisions. I am grateful to have her by my side this year,” he added.
The entire staff of The Mirror contributed to this report. Photos of Ms. Moodey and Dr. Smith were provided. All other photos by Mr. Michael Aldridge.
