Simone Loeffel

Hello! My name is Simone Loeffel and I am the library media specialist at West Patent. I started as a school librarian in the NYC public schools and joined Bedford in 2012. I see students every week for library class where students have the opportunity to borrow library books. I am also teaching robotics and coding to students, as well as a focus on digital and media literacy. My hobbies outside of teaching include reading, traveling, and going to concerts.

Please visit the West Patent Library Media Center Webpage

Eleana Sipowicz

Hello! I am Eleana Sipowicz and I LOVE teaching art! I am a passionate art educator with over 25 years experience working with children. Prior to Bedford I taught for The School @ Columbia University for 10 years in both the classroom and the art room. As an educator I strive to foster an environment where each of my students feels safe and inspired. Where they can grow at their own pace, problem solve through their ideas and learn how to express themselves creatively both as individuals and collaboratively. Outside of school I love spending time with my family, making things, listening to music, gardening and being outdoors!

Ryan Tranchida

My name is Ryan Tranchida and I have been the PE teacher at WPES since 2004. Before coming to WPES I was a elementary health teacher in Brewster for 6 months. I have always had a passion for sports and activity and I hope to inspire your child to live a healthy active lifestyle.

Jamie Ring (Orchestra)

My name is Jamie Ring and I have been teaching strings in Bedford since 2010. I started at Mount Kisco and Bedford Village and am happy to join the team at West Patent this year. I love teaching students how to play an instrument, how to overcome challenges, and how to be part of a musical team. Outside of school, I love to spend time with my family, run, and be outside in nature.

Dr. Michael Mulder (Band)

I have been teaching in Bedford since 2002. Before that, I taught musical theatre, general music, strings, band, and chorus in a New York City elementary school with over 600 students! Music is my greatest passion and I love to share the joys of music making with elementary students. Becoming a musician teaches kids musical skills, but also discipline, problem solving, frustration-tolerance, and focus.

Lynn Donnavan

Welcome to general music! My name is Lynn Donnavan and I’m excited to be your child’s new music teacher. I have been teaching in Bedford since 1998 and I have enjoyed working in all five elementary schools! I began my career in a visual and performing arts magnet school in Newburgh, NY and also taught on Long Island. I received my undergraduate degree in Music Education from Westminster Choir College in Princeton, N.J. and my Masters in Pedagogy from the Hartt School of Music, Hartford, C.T.

In our music room, you will see students actively engaged in their music learning. Whether we are moving, playing the Orff instruments and African drums, singing or creating, students are fully involved in the learning process. My hope is to instill a life-long love of music making and appreciation!

When I’m not teaching, I love gardening, cooking and spending time with my family.

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