Sierre has been with the Arts and Literacy program for over four years. She obtained her Bachelor's of Science in Early Childhood Education from Grand Canyon University. She is passionately dedicated to the education of children by establishing a positive and productive learning environment that fosters and promotes the academic potential and social wellbeing of all children.
Sofia de Guzman, MPS, LCAT-LP is the on-site art therapist for Arts & Literacy at P.S. 377. She completed her master's degree in Creative Arts Therapy at Pratt Institute and received her B.A. from Bard College where she majored in photography. As a practicing artist, Sofia understands firsthand the power of art to build connections, process experiences, and provide relief from the stress of our busy lives. Previously, Sofia was an art therapy intern with the Coalition for Hispanic Family Services. She is thrilled to be back to collaborate with the students and families of 377.
As a teaching artist, Amberrose is capable of bringing energy and knowledge to the children who attend the after school program at P.S. 377. She is a recent graduate of Pratt Institute, pursued a BFA in Painting and studied Art History and Museum and Gallery Practices as her minors; she also has taken several classes pertaining to art education.
Amberrose firmly believes in making art accessible to all children despite their socioeconomic standing; given the proper tools any child can become an artist. Amberrose ensures that the classroom is a safe learning environment and there is open communication between all students from a variety of backgrounds. She makes certain that each student feels comfortable enough to share their thoughts during the sessions by asking questions and sharing scenarios rather than providing students with facts alone. She also acknowledged that some students need a little more help than others and it is her duty to work one-on-one with the students in order for them to fully grasp the material at hand.
Ms. Kelly is a dancer, teacher and choreographer from Washington, DC. She obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Dance & Choreography with a minor in Business at Virginia Commonwealth University. She came on board with ps.377 Arts & Literacy back in February 2020, and teaches all ages and styles of dance like Ballet, Jazz, Modern and Hip-Hop. Ms. Kelly believes that imagination is an important component to learning, that it does not only equate to “early learning”, but to everyone of all ages. She believes that by implementing imaginative practice into her lesson plans she is able to help increase students cognitive, innovation, and leadership skills.
Rohana is a classically trained cellist and alumna of the Juilliard Pre College Institute. She graduated from Princeton University in 2019 and started working for CHFS as part of the P55 fellowship program. She is interested in the intersection between music and early childhood education and frequently combines her musical teaching with visual art. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, going for long bike rides or runs, and making crafts.
Natalie is so excited to be part of the Coalition. After graduating from the University of California - Santa Cruz, she has taught with AmeriCorps National Service organizations such as City Year, ArtistYear, and as a teaching artist with Artists Striving to End Poverty (ASTEP). She is thrilled to be part of a great community and excited to create fun art projects!
Amy is one of our new homework teachers in the after school program and she has 3 years of experience working with children. Ms. Amy is currently pursuing her bachelor’s of Science in Elementary Education at Grand Canyon University. Amy is very passionate about child education and believes that every child deserves to have a great education and a genuine safe space in their schools.
HI, my name is Alberto Zapata. I have a passion for sports and been working for Arts & Literacy for 7 to 8 years. I'm a homework/sports teacher who teaches basketball, flag football and soccer. I believe that playing sports helps children with their teamwork, communication and confidence.