STAFF Spotlight

Jerome Pelto

"Jerome is calm and always finds a way. He not only helps coordinate transportation, but he also drives. Jerome is available 24/7 for all questions and needs that arise. He is kind and embodies our mission to engage, educate, and empower all."

- Jerome Pelto, School Bus Coordinator

Lisa Kirby

"With all the changes in school lunch, Lisa is our driving force to make delicious breakfast items and yummy salad bar offerings."

- Lisa Kirby, Assistant Cook

Rachel McDonald

"Rachel started the Community Closet in 2019 to bring free clothing, shoes, and toiletries to students in need. She gives much of her time and cares so much about our students and has helped so many.”

- Rachel McDonald, Library Media Specialist at IHS

PE teacher posing with dog

"Anthony's dynamic and inclusive teaching style allows all students to feel welcome and involved in his learning space."

- Anthony Archetti, PE Teacher at Fall Creek

ENL teacher posing

"Jen is the leader who recognizes the unique challenges these students may face and actively works and engages the ENL teachers to alleviate those challenges and create an environment conducive to academic achievement and personal growth."

- Jennifer Johnson, ENL Teacher at IHS

Joe McMahon

"Joe has made strong connections with students, staff, and curriculum. Joe has consistently gone above and beyond to support students and families as they acclimate to both IHS as well as the larger Ithaca community."

- Joe McMahon, ENL Teacher, Ithaca High

Headshot of Alex Scher

"Alex is a facilitator of the first strand of the ICSD Microcredential. He leads participants through a series of activities and discussions that will help them learn how a person’s identity develops and how identity influences our choices in the classroom."

- Alex Scher, Social Worker at Belle Sherman

christine barley

“Chris is a caring and driven life-long learner and educator. She has a unique ability to get to know each student and their families to best support their academic, social, and emotional growth.”

- Christine Barley, Elementary Teacher at Cayuga Heights

Rhody O'Donnell

"Rhody always has a smile on her face and shows so much love for our students. She connects with students and meets them where they are so they can feel like successful readers."

- Rhody O'Donnell, Reading Teacher at Northeast

Tito Hernandez

“Coach Tito works with us to make sure we are our best selves and nothing short of the potential we have.”

- Tito Hernandez, P.E. Teacher at Caroline

Sarah Smith Headshot

“Sarah is an experienced, strengths-based early childhood educator who believes in nurturing the whole child through unconditional acceptance and compassion."

- Sarah Smith, Early Childhood Teacher at Fall Creek

Michelle Szymczak Headshot

“Michelle is wonderful at building positive relationships with students and creating a classroom environment where all students shine and find joy in learning."

- Michelle Szymczak, First Grade Teacher at Northeast

Lina Sok Headshot

“Lina is the building custodian at South Hill and she makes her building sparkle! Lina's attention to detail and work ethic reflect her heart and her love for students and staff.”

- Lina Sok, Custodian at South Hill

Theresa Souchet Headshot

Theresa is a facilitator of the first strand of the ICSD Microcredential. She leads participants through a series of activities and discussions that will help them learn how a person’s identity develops and how identity influences our choices in the classroom.

- Theresa Souchet, ENL Teacher at DeWitt

Shawn Ward Headshot

“He is an intelligent leader who is thoughtful and deliberate. Shawn makes good things happen for kids!”

- Shawn Ward, Head Building Maintenance Mechanic

Headshot of Kellianne Smith

Kellianne is a facilitator of the first strand of the ICSD Microcredential. She leads participants through a series of activities and discussions that will help them learn how a person’s identity develops and how identity influences our choices in the classroom.

- Kellianne Smith, Teacher Aide at BJM

BY THE NUMBERS

Engaged and Empowered Learning

5,303

Number of students enrolled in the Ithaca City School District

91 %

4-year graduation rate for IHS and LACS combined

416

Students who took one or more AP exams

88.5 %

Students who earned a score of 3+ on one or more AP exams (compare to the national average of 22.5%)

820

Students who participated in an elementary instrumental music program

19

Students who earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB) in 2023