Elizabeth Giovino
Elementary School Teacher
I have found a place that embraces who I am as an educator and an individual. The incredible Leadership at our school makes me feel appreciated and empowered daily. As a team we are encouraged to assume the best in each other and our students. This practice not only creates a supportive working environment but results in seeing the best in yourself. To be able to teach from that space is a powerful and joyful experience that leaves me feeling lucky that I found a home at BuffSci
Brittany Barlow
High School ELA Teacher
My time at RocSci has only confirmed that my decision to move across the country to Rochester was the best decision I could have made. The administrative staff are supportive. They do all they can to help one feel empowered and valued while pushing their team to be the best educators they can be. The RocSci team's integrity can be seen in even the smallest of daily operations. While the education and administrative teams are phenomenal, what truly makes RocSci so unique and special is the students. I am thrilled to be a part of their journey. RocSci has exceeded my expectations in every way, and only adds to my own dedication to excellence.
Deniz Yaman
Founding Principal of RocSci High School
My journey at BuffSci began as a Language Other Than English (LOTE) teacher many years ago, but it quickly became a story of personal growth and profound connections. The district didn't just support me; it believed in me. From sending me to national conferences to encouraging me to lead international field trips, BuffSci nurtured my passion and helped me evolve into the founding principal of the Rochester campus. RocSci isn't just a workplace; it's my second family, where we share laughter, challenges, and dreams. The friendship and dedication of our team make every day meaningful. I'm thankful for BuffSci's belief in me and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of our students.
Emily Mahony
Speech and Language Pathologist
Working at BuffSci has expanded my “teacher” knowledge exponentially. The school’s mission and focus on both STEM and social-emotional learning have helped me grow as a professional and have helped me see the ways children learn best. It’s hard to put into words the level of endearment the staff has towards both their students and fellow staff members. It’s a warm and welcoming environment which makes learning conditions extremely enriching for the children. Simply put, BuffSci’s mission & vision, staff, and students have given me my abode which I never plan to leave.
Danielle Steffan
Middle School Teacher
I knew when I walked into the building that BuffSci had an atmosphere I felt comfortable in, from the plants in the entryway to the students and staff who smiled and greeted me as I came in. I walked out of the school with such an amazing feeling, like I found the school I could stay at until I retired.
Madeline Otero
Math Specialist, Gifted Programming Specialist
I love working at BuffSci because they give me chances to lead, the administration cares about us, and there are always opportunities to learn and grow professionally. It's a great place where my passion and career can both flourish.
Justin Braun
Chief Academic Officer
As the Chief Academic Officer of Buffalo and Rochester Academy of Science Charter School, I can attest to the pivotal role of data-driven decision-making in guiding our instructional practices. By analyzing students' performance on standards-aligned benchmark assessments, we gain vital insights into their strengths and areas for growth. This data informs not only our daily instruction but also drives the creation of weekly intervention classes tailored to address specific needs. This proactive approach ensures that every student receives the targeted support necessary to excel academically, empowering them to reach their full potential.
Ellysia Ferry
Elementary School Teacher
One thing that sets Buff Sci apart is the unwavering support provided to each staff member in their current roles, as well as opportunities for ongoing learning through professional development programs and guidance for pursuing master's degrees, credentials, and certifications. Everyone here shares the same goal of creating a safe and healthy working environment for teachers and students. I am truly grateful for the warm welcome, the recognition of my value, and the opportunity to be heard. Our administration is exceptional, and I am continually amazed by their dedication.Buff Sci is my home and I am honored to teach alongside many amazing educators!
Dr. Rose Heavens
Elementary School Teacher
As a second grade teacher and a founding member of RocSci, the success of my students motivates me to be in the classroom each day. It is a privilege to work at RocSci because the needs of our students are always our first priority. As a teacher, RocSci invests in my growth and development as I receive constructive, timely feedback, which has served to inspire and propel me to strive for excellence in all areas and has fostered an even deeper love for teaching.
Lamonica Harris
BuffSci 2 High School Principal
We started out as a small school (grades 7-9) in the back of the church on Jewett PKWY. At that time I was the School Counselor fast-forward 19 years, I am the Principal at BuffSci 2, High School and we have 5 school buildings including an expansion into the city of Rochester, NY. I left BuffSci in 2010 and returned to BuffSci in 2021, It's nice to be home!
Michael Schlifke
Instructional Coach, High School Science Teacher
Working at BuffSci is more than just a job; it's a calling; a calling to be part of something greater than ourselves, to make a positive difference in the lives of others, and to be part of a supportive, nurturing community that feels like home. I'm grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this extraordinary school, and I look forward to the countless adventures and successes that lie ahead.
Jonathon Rice
PE Teacher
The elements that inspired me to join the team were the working environment and the opportunity to teach at the elementary level pre-k thru 4th grade. The student-to-teacher ratio is fantastic. The other element that I love about BuffSci is that it is a part of the NYSTRS. Lastly, what I love about joining this team is how every teacher and administrator works together and makes sure everyone feels safe and welcome. That is something that has stood out to me the most since day 1.
Dante Jones
Support Teacher
I love working at Buffalo Academy Of Science! Our classrooms are small safe places for kids, which helps us cater and interact with each student effectively and efficiently. Having two teachers in each classroom gives us time and space to make sure students are getting enough one-on-one time as they need. Homework is directly correlated to our classroom work and challenges our students to do their best! This is why I choose BuffSci not only as a place to work but as a place to send my children!
Tiffany Stampfer
Elementary School Teacher
Being a teacher at RocSci is special because first and foremost our focus is on the students. As a teacher, this allows me to teach each child to discover who they are and what they love while critically examining the world around them. I design learning experiences so the students will make connections on a personal level, cooperate and communicate effectively with one another, and reflect upon ways to improve and celebrate their actions, skills, talents, and abilities.
Kori Kammerdeiner
Special Education Teacher
In my first year at Buffalo Academy of Science, I have been able to witness the exceptionally positive and supportive environment that defines our school community. With a particular emphasis on student social-emotional learning (SEL), I have experienced firsthand the school's dedication to fostering empathy and resilience, creating an atmosphere conducive to both academic and emotional growth. Furthermore, the commitment to professional development at Buffalo Academy of Science has significantly enriched my teaching practices, providing valuable opportunities for growth in my role. The collaborative culture among the faculty further enhances the overall excellence of Buffalo Academy of Science, making it an exemplary institution where both students and educators flourish.