Meet Our Staff
A1 – Ms. Flaherty
Mrs. Flaherty is proud to teach in the same wonderful Somerton community where she grew up and is raising her family today. This year marks her tenth year teaching at the Loesche School, where she spent seven years in Kindergarten before transitioning to PreK. Mrs. Flaherty is incredibly passionate about welcoming our youngest students into their first school experiences using developmentally appropriate practices. Above all, she strives to create a classroom filled with love, compassion, and a lifelong excitement for learning.
A2 – Ms. Dephillips
Mrs. DePhillips is beginning her eighth year as a PreK teacher and has proudly taught in this classroom since graduating from college. She is passionate about creating a warm, nurturing environment where every child feels safe, loved, and excited to come to school each day. Mrs. DePhillips believes that young children learn best through hands-on exploration, meaningful play, and positive relationships. She is dedicated to fostering each child’s curiosity, confidence, and independence while helping them build a strong foundation for a lifelong love of learning. She feels honored to be part of her students’ very first school experience and looks forward to making this year a fun and memorable one for every child and family.
A3 – Ms. Romana
This is my fourteenth year teaching as a kindergarten teacher. My favorite aspect of teaching kindergarten is witnessing the incredible language development and confidence that blossoms in young learners. I am dedicated to fostering a love of learning while building a strong relationship with students and their families. When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, visiting amusement parks, relaxing at the beach, reading, and sipping a good cup of coffee.
A4 – Ms. Cervantes
Welcome to Kindergarten! My name is Mrs. Cervantes. I am excited to build positive relationships with families and students to ensure a successful year! This is my 29th year of teaching. My goal is to help students reach their fullest academic and social potential in a positive, supportive environment.
B1 – Ms. Field
Hello, I am Mrs. Field, and I have been a kindergarten teacher at Loesche since 2019. I received my Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood/Elementary Education from Temple University and my Master’s Degree in Education from Holy Family University. This year, I begin my 35th year of teaching for the School District of Philadelphia.
B2 – Ms. Davies
Hello, My name Mrs. Davies and I am part of a wonderful kindergarten team at Loesche! This is my 23 year teaching experience in the School District of Philadelphia and my ninth year at Loesche. I believe that kindergarten is one of the most rewarding grades to teach. Each year I have the opportunity to watch young minds grow and develop right before my eyes. I am grateful to be part of the Loesche family! When I’m not teaching I enjoy watching the Eagles and Phillies, reading a good book on the beach and finding new coffee shops.
B3 – Ms. Fortune
I attended Temple University and am going into my third year teaching at Loesche. I love helping children learn, explore, and grow. My classroom is a fun, caring, and welcoming place where students learn new things and make new friends. When I am not teaching, I enjoy trying new restaurants and spending time with friends and family.
106 – Ms. Ticconi
Bio here
Google Classroom Link
B6 – Ms. Maiorov
I have been teaching in the Philadelphia School District for 18 years and happy to be in my third year teaching at Loesche as a 1st grade teacher. Teaching young children is my passion, and I find great joy in helping them learn and grow every day. I love creating a positive and caring classroom where every child can feel successful. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, going to the beach, and cheering on the Philadelphia Phillies!
B7 – Ms. Illiano
Google Classroom Link
B8 – Mr. Newitt
Google Classroom Link
B9 – Ms. Leno
Hello, My name is Helene Leno, and I love teaching first grade! I believe every child learns best in a safe, kind, and fun environment. My goal is to spark a lifelong love for reading and learning. I want every student to feel special, confident, and excited to walk through our classroom door each morning. Outside the classroom, I enjoy reading, relaxing at the beach, and spending time with my friends and family.
102 – Ms. Larkin
Google Classroom Link
107 – Ms. Fevola
Google Classroom Link
112 – Ms. Petersen
Google Classroom Link
B5 – tBD
Google Classroom Link
100 – Ms. Dalesandro
I have been a teacher in Philadelphia for over 27 years and this is my 7th year teaching at Loesche. I enjoy working with my amazing students every day to create a lifelong passion for learning. I strive to create a caring classroom environment where every child feels included and successful!
104 – Ms. Goldman
I started teaching in the School District of Philadelphia in 1992. Last year, during my first year at Loesche, I taught Kindergarten. I love helping children discover their strengths and become confident learners.
200 – Ms. Kliesh
I have been teaching in the Philadelphia School District for 13 years and my second year teaching at Loesche as a 2nd grade teacher. I enjoy teaching young children, and helping them grow into successful students.
I love to create a positive, nurturing, and caring environment so every child can succeed. Outside of school I am a mother of three boys and enjoy spending time with them outdoors.
201 – Ms. M. Smith
Google Classroom Link
202 – Mr. Clark
Google Classroom Link
204 – Ms. Jacob
I have been a teacher for 35 years and this is my 9th year at Loesche. I am married and have two adult children. I enjoy teaching more than anything else. I also enjoy walking in the woods, visiting new places, reading books, and spending time with family.
1081 – Ms. Stevenson
Google Classroom Link
1082 – Ms. Milewski
Google Classroom Link
109 – Ms. Spencer
Hello! My name is Mrs. Spencer, and I am so excited to be teaching 3rd grade for my second year at Loesche! This marks my 18th year as an educator in the School District of Philadelphia, and my passion for helping young learners discover their strengths grows every single season. In our classroom, we focus on working hard, being kind, and celebrating each other’s progress. I look forward to partnering with our students and families for a wonderful, growth-filled school year!
207 – Ms. Kane
Google Classroom Link
208 – TBD
Google Classroom Link
209 – Ms. Weikel
Google Classroom Link
210 – Ms. Lovenstein
Google Classroom Link
211 – Ms. Sokoloff
Hi! I’m Ms. Sokoloff, and I’m excited to be teaching third grade! This is my first year at Loesche Elementary and my fifth year with the School District of Philadelphia. Before becoming an educator, I spent more than 10 years in the hospitality and special events industry.
I earned my bachelor’s degree from Temple University and my master’s degree in Elementary Education from Western Governors University. As a teacher, I love creating a classroom where students feel supported, challenged, and excited to learn. I’m especially passionate about hands-on learning, science, and bringing creativity into the classroom.
Outside of school, I enjoy Pilates, traveling, baking, and all things theater!
2141 – TBD
Google Classroom Link
1142 – Ms. Liu
Google Classroom Link
105 – Ms. Fanega
Born and raised in Somerton, I am a proud product of Philadelphia public education. After 17 years working in Philadelphia charter schools, I am excited to be part of the Loesche community. My K–12 teaching experience has given me a love for helping students make connections across subjects, and I am especially passionate about service-learning and creating opportunities for students to grow as Loesche leaders. Outside of school, I enjoy kickboxing, playing street/ball hockey, and cheering on our Philly sports teams!
212 – Ms. Costa
Google Classroom Link
216 – Ms. Dimond
Google Classroom Link
217 – TBD
Google Classroom Link
220 – Ms. Reimer
Google Classroom Link
215 – Mr. Diamond
I proudly graduated from Holy Family University, and I have spent more than 20 fulfilling years in the teaching profession, inspiring young minds. At home, I share my life with a lively boxer named Harper, whose playful spirit brings joy to our family. I’ve been happily married to my wonderful wife, Tara, for 15 years. Together, we are raising two incredible boys: our eldest son, Tim, who is now 21 and embarking on his own journey into adulthood, and our spirited 13-year-old, Ryan, who keeps us on our toes with his curiosity and energy. I absolutely love the game of golf! Hitting the greens and perfecting my swing brings me so much joy, especially when I get the chance to enter exciting tournaments. It’s thrilling to challenge myself and meet fellow golf enthusiasts in these competitions!
215 – Ms. Gaal
I am proud to have graduated from Temple University, where I established the foundation for my educational career. My passion for learning led me to complete two master’s programs at Grand Canyon University, enhancing my teaching skills and knowledge. Additionally, I am a certified Reading Specialist with an ESOL certificate, which enables me to support diverse learners effectively. With over 30 years of teaching experience in the district, I have had the privilege of influencing young minds, creating joy in the classroom, and fostering a love for reading in my students. In my personal life, I am a proud parent of two wonderful daughters: Jacqueline, who is now 20 and embarking on her own journey, and Lizzie, a lively 16-year-old with big dreams. I have been happily married to my husband, Tom, for 30 years, and together, we share a deep love for our favorite football team, the Eagles. Our family bond is strengthened through our shared passions, and we cherish every moment spent cheering for our team together!
110 – Mr. Decker
I have been teaching for 27 years, 22 of which have been in the School District of Philadelphia. I am passionate about building a classroom community that supports students’ growth in academics and confidence as they become lifelong learners. I believe that all students should feel supported, challenged and celebrated for their hard work.
111 – Ms. Theuer
Google Classroom Link
218 – Mr. Smith
This is my 4th year of teaching at Loesche and 15th year overall. Born and raised in northeast Philadelphia and I am a baseball umpire. I am married with 2 daughters.
219 – Ms. Barcoski
I am a dedicated 5th-grade ELA teacher with more than 20 years of experience in education. I hold a master’s degree in TESOL/ESL and am passionate about empowering students to become confident readers, thoughtful writers, and lifelong learners. I strive to create a supportive and engaging classroom where every student feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.
221 – Ms. O’Neill
I am a proud mom of three and an educator with 11 years of experience in the School District of Philadelphia. As a teacher, I am passionate about helping students grow academically, build confidence, and develop a love of learning. Being both a mom and a teacher has strengthened my belief that every child deserves to feel supported, challenged, and celebrated.
222 – Ms. Varano
I am a dedicated math/science fifth-grade teacher with over 30 years of experience helping children grow academically and confidently. As a National Board Certified Teacher, I am especially passionate about mathematics, student-centered learning, and creating a classroom where every child feels supported, challenged, and valued.
224 – Mr. George
My name is Nithin George. I have been teaching for 11 years, including both elementary and middle school. I am also a father of three kids myself with my wonderful wife. I’m a huge basketball fan, and I see my classroom a lot like a basketball team: everyone brings their own strengths to the court, we pass the ball, learn from our mistakes, and work together to score some big wins!
Gym – Ms. Hoffmen
Music – Ms. Valery
Bio here
Instrumental Music / Strings – Ms. Almeida
Instrumental Music / Band – Ms. Huber
Social Studies – Mr. Bradley
Valdez Bradley is a K–6 Social Studies educator at Loesche Elementary with a versatile background in both creative and specialized instruction. Holding a BFA in Graphic Design from UT Arlington and dual certification in Elementary Education (K–6) and Special Education (N–12) from St. Joseph’s University, Valdez brings a well-rounded, hands-on perspective to the classroom. Over a dynamic teaching career, he has taught nearly every subject imaginable—from Art and Science to Gym, Learning Support, and core grades 4–8. Outside the classroom, you’ll find him tinkering with tools, drawing and painting, or enjoying a Twix bar while reading his favorite book, The Autobiography of Malcolm X.
Social Studies – Ms. Braverman
Welcome to a fantastic new school year! Marking my 20th year in education, I am thrilled to share my passion for Social Studies with our students after years of teaching across various elementary grade levels. Outside the classroom, I am happily married and the proud parent of two wonderful grown children. My heart is especially full this year as I recently stepped into my favorite new role yet—”Mom Mom”!
Art – Ms. Spalding
Philadelphia native Kara Spalding holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Temple University’s Tyler School of Art, with a focus on drawing, painting, sculpture, and art history. After spearheading numerous community arts education and outreach initiatives—including work with the Philadelphia Mural Arts Program—she earned an Art Education degree from Moore College of Art and Design, specializing in strategies for diverse learners. For over 20 years, Kara has designed and taught inclusive, globe-spanning visual art curricula while maintaining her own active studio practice and raising a family.
Art – Ms. Shean
Ms. Shean has been teaching art in Philadelphia’s public schools for more than a decade. Before obtaining her Master of Science degree in elementary education from the University of Pennsylvania, she received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the United States International University in San Diego as well as a law degree and Master of Communications degree from the University of Southern California. She is happily married and has three wonderful daughters. Ms. Shean thinks that Loesch’s students are remarkable and that it’s a privilege and a joy to teach them.
Digital Literacy – Ms. Bilikiewicz
Bio here
Digital Literacy & Science – Mr. Ketterer
Michael Ketterer has been an educator for 24 years, including the past nine years at Loesche, with most of his career focused on middle years education and elementary science. He recently transitioned into the role of Computer and Technology Teacher and also serves as Loesche’s Co School Technology Coordinator (STC), supporting the technology needs of students, teachers, and staff throughout the school. During his time at Loesche, Michael has organized the school’s annual Science Fair, helping students explore their interests in science through hands-on learning and discovery. He is also proud to give back to the Loesche community, working alongside his wife to support the school’s annual Thanksgiving Food Drive, which provides assistance to local families in need.
Science – Mr. Bussmann
Bio here
B4 – Ms. Erlich
With 35 years of experience in autism education, including past roles as a behavior analyst and verbal behavior school director, my true passion remains right inside the classroom with my students. I thrive on the excitement of teaching little ones during their early school years, especially witnessing those precious breakthroughs as they find their voice and learn to communicate using their very first words and making their first social and academic connections. I have degrees in psychology, special education, and integrated curriculum. I am dedicated to meeting each child where they are developmentally to support them as they grow into confident, independent learners. When I am not in school, you can find me in the studio taking dance fitness classes, traveling by cruise ship, or relaxing at home with my husband and our four cats.
101 – Mr. Malinowski
Bio here
Google Classroom Link
103 – Ms. Kent
Bio here
Google Classroom Link
203 – Ms. K. Young
Bio here
Google Classroom Link
205 – Ms. Geisler
For the past 28 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as an Autistic Support Teacher. Teaching is my passion, and I am deeply committed to creating a classroom community where every student feels seen, valued, and encouraged to thrive.
At home, I am supported by my wonderful husband and our two daughters, who are 18 and 19. My favorite way to spend my free time—when I’m not prepping for school—is watching my daughters compete and perform in Irish dance.
223 – Ms. Scalen
bio here
Google Classroom Link
2141 – Ms. Bertolet
Bio here
Google Classroom Link
2142 – TBD
Bio here
Google Classroom Link
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Fisher
Mrs. Fisher is excited to begin her 19th year of teaching in the School District of Philadelphia— 6th at Loesche. She has taught all areas of Special Education and continues to service Learning Support students, as well as ESOL students, at Loesche. Her goal is to help students grow academically, as well as, socially and emotionally. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Fisher coaches youth Ice Hockey in the area. You can also find her on the sidelines watching her 2 sons play baseball, basketball, hockey, and soccer!
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Miller
My name is Stephanie Miller, and I am an ESOL teacher for grades 3-5 at Loesche Elementary School. This is my third year as an ESOL teacher and my 23rd year teaching! I am married and have three children and two kittens. I enjoy reading as many books as I can, visiting the beach and gardening when I’m not in school.
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Davenpeck
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Yodis
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Dembeck
Hi! I’m Beth Dembeck, ESOL teacher! This is my 10th year here at Loesche, but my 23rd year teaching overall! Over the years, I have taught Pre-K, Kindergarten, 4th and 5th grade as a classroom teacher before getting my Masters degree and certification in ESOL. Now I spend my days working with small groups and helping our students learn English!
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Ninan
I received my undergrad degree in Elementary Education from the University of Central Florida in Orlando, FL. I also earned my MA in TESOL from Holy Family University. I have been teaching for 13 years, most of which have been dedicated to teaching English as a second language. This is my sixth year teaching at Loesche Elementary.
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Moiseenko
HELLO! HOLA! PRIVET! ПРИВІТ! My name is Olga Moiseenko, ESOL Teacher. This is my
fourth year teaching at Loesche but my 10th year teaching within the School District of
Philadelphia. I graduated from Holy Family University with a Master’s Degree in Education and
an ESL Program Specialist certificate. We are going to learn, grow, laugh, and have so much
fun together.
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Sinkler
Jacqueline Sinkler is a dedicated educator who loves helping teachers and students grow. With years of experience in ESL and technology integration, she brings creativity and care to every project. She’s passionate about making learning accessible and engaging for all learners. Outside of work, Jacqueline enjoys exploring new ideas that connect education and innovation.
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Sulpizio
Hello. I am Beth Ann Sulpizio and I am an ESL teacher in the First grade at William Loesche Elementary School. My bachelors degree is in Elementary Education, certified Kindergarten through sixth grade. My masters degree is in TESOL and Literacy, both from Holy Family University. I live in the neighborhood and enjoy working in my community amongst my neighbors.
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Brockington
Hi, I’m Tracy Brockington! I am one of the ESOL teachers here at Loesche Elementary. This is my 4th year here at Loesche, but my 17th year teaching within the School District of Philadelphia. I have taught grades 2-6th as a classroom teacher before getting my Masters degree and certification in ESOL from Holy Family University. I am also a National Board Certified Teacher in Literacy. Now, my days are spent working with small groups and helping our students learn English!
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Karlyn
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Ruiz
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Alessi
Hi! I’m Stephanie Alessi, ESOL teacher! This is my 27th year teaching, and my 3rd here at Loesche. I graduated from Rider University, double majoring in Education and Psychology. I started teaching 5th grade, then moved down to 1st grade. Over the following years, I taught 4th and 6th grade as a classroom teacher before earning my Master’s degree from WGU with an ESOL certification. Now I spend my days working with small groups and helping our students learn English!
Multilingual Learner – Mr. Veeraraj
My name is Mr. Veeraraj, and I am one of the ESOL teachers here at Loesche. This is my 3rd year here and I love helping the students learn. I graduated with my bachelor’s degree in early childhood and elementary education from Penn State University, completed my master’s degree in education at Arcadia University, and am currently at Temple University pursuing my doctorate in education. Outside of school I enjoy watching movies, going to concerts, and spending time with friends and family.
Multilingual Learner – Ms. Benedetto
Ms. Benedetto has taught English as a Second Language for nearly 30 years, including 24 years with the School District of Philadelphia. Her goal is to provide a safe environment for ESL students of all proficiency levels while creating opportunities to integrate the four language domains into daily lessons so students can fully engage with content across the curriculum.
Learning Support – Ms. Burns
Hi! I am excited to begin my tenth year as a Learning Support Teacher at Loesche School. Having grown up in the Somerton area and attended Loesche myself as a student, I am deeply invested in our community. My 30-year journey in education includes diverse roles as a classroom teacher, administrator, and educational researcher. I believe strongly in the power of education and hold high expectations for all learners. Ultimately, my goal is to help students reach their fullest academic and social potential in a positive, supportive environment.
Learning Support – Ms. Patras
Mrs. Patras is excited to begin her 18th year at Loesche Elementary School, where she currently teaches Learning Support. Throughout her years at Loesche, she has built meaningful relationships with her students and families and is dedicated to helping every student reach their full potential. She is a caring and compassionate educator who believes in creating a supportive classroom where every child feels valued, encouraged, and successful. Outside of school, Mrs. Patras loves spending time at the beach, trying new restaurants, and cheering on her favorite Philadelphia sports teams. She is grateful to be part of the Loesche community and looks forward to another wonderful year with her students!
Learning Support – Ms. Fisher
Mrs. Fisher is excited to begin her 19th year of teaching in the School District of Philadelphia— 6th at Loesche. She has taught all areas of Special Education and continues to service Learning Support students, as well as ESOL students, at Loesche. Her goal is to help students grow academically, as well as, socially and emotionally. Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Fisher coaches youth Ice Hockey in the area. You can also find her on the sidelines watching her 2 sons play baseball, basketball, hockey, and soccer!
Learning Support – Ms. K. Smith
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Coone
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Deal
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Herb
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Sardarian
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Williams
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Kampula
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Embarek
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Pittman
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Kurmankulova
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Lex
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Balilaj
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Smoluk
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Ateem
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Sulpizio
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Tafa
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Ahmadi
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Kalari
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Duman
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Wilkus
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Zhupa
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Benson
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Brooks
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Caushaj
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Falah
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Alamayreh
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Kore
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Elmabrouk
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Thomo
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Dogru
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Bouzerdoum
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Dine
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Hadbi
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Karyagdi
Classroom Assistant – Ms. Elsharkawy
Hearing Therapist – Ms. Cerulli
Vision Therapist – Mr. Gordon
Physical Therapist – Mr. Korzeniowski
Occupational Therapist – Ms. Marks
Speech Therapist – Ms. DeSousa
Speech Therapist – Ms. Grover
Psychologist – Dr. Martinelli
Kitchen – Ms. King
Secretary – Ms. Martinez
Multilingual Coordinator/Dean – Ms. Keeny
I am in my 13th year at Loesche Elementary and 24 years with the SDP.
I am the Dean and ESOL Point Person. Please reach out if you have any
questions or concerns!
SBTL grade K & 1 – Ms. Romeo
SBTL grade 2 & 3 – Ms. Veneziale
SBTL grades 4 & 5 – Ms. Borger
Bilingual Counseling Assistant – Georgian – Ms. Sharabidze
Available Wednesday 8:00-3:30
Bilingual Counseling Assistant – Tajik – Ms. Tursunova
Available Tuesday 7:45-3:15
Bilingual Counseling Assistant – Ukrainian – Ms. Salo
Available Friday 8:00-3:30
Bilingual Counseling Assistant – Arabic – Mr. Mahmoud
Available Tuesday 8:00-3:30
Bilingual Counseling Assistant – Chinese Cantonese – Ms. M. Chan
Available Thursday 8:00-3:30
Bilingual Counseling Assistant – Chinese Mandarin – Ms. E. Chen
Available Thursday 8:00-3:30
Bilingual Counseling Assistant – Uzbek – Ms. Ibragimova
Available 5 days a week 8:15 – 3:30
Climate Staff – Ms. Hosear
Climate Staff – Ms. Kriesman
Climate Staff – Ms. Coulter
Climate Staff – Ms. Cadet
Climate Staff – Ms. Crouch
Climate Staff – Ms. Matecki
Climate Staff – Ms. Khatun
Climate Staff – Ms. Guiddir
Building Engineer – Ms. D. Smith
Custodial Assistant – Ms. Santiago
Custodial Assistant – Ms. Gonzalez
Custodial Assistant – Ms. Mantsos
Custodial Assistant – Mr. Ahmetaj
Bus Attendant – Mr. Jordon
Bus Attendant – Ms. Afanador
Last modified: October 6, 2026
