Elie Smith Déu is a highly experienced N-12 educator and advocate. Her extensive career spans over three decades, encompassing leadership roles at prestigious independent schools such as Phillips Exeter Academy, Milton Academy, La Jolla Country Day, Greenwich Academy, Avenues NY, and most recently as Head of School for six years at Williamsburg Northside School. She has also helped lead at international schools in the Principality of Andorra and Cyprus. A multilingual educator with a degree from Duke University, a graduate Certificate in School Leadership from Harvard, and completion of the Klingenstein Head Fellowship at Columbia University’s Teachers College, Elie possesses deep expertise in program and curriculum design, student development, and operational improvement. Her diverse experience includes serving as World Language Chair, Social Studies Chair, 6-9 Dean of Students, Lower School Divisional Director, and MS/US Admissions Director. Elie brings a global perspective, a strong commitment to DEIB, and a mission-focused approach to her work, emphasizing the importance of communication, accountability, and trust. Elie is currently completing the Master’s in Education Leadership program at Harvard’s Graduate School of Education and resides in Fort Greene with her family and tuxedo cats.

I was born and raised in Queens, New York and I have been a part of The Co-op School community since 2008. During my career here, I have enjoyed teaching 2 to 5-year-old students, collaborating with families, and supporting the teaching staff. I’ve taught in the 2 to 5-year-old students 2’s, 3’s, and Pre-K classes and have been enjoying the role of Preschool Education Director. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in childhood education and a Master’s of Science in Early Childhood General and Special Education. I love the cooperative spirit, creativity, and family involvement at The Co-op School. My child started his first Co-op school year and I couldn’t be more grateful for the learning experiences the preschool staff bring to this community. In my spare time, I enjoy gardening, going to the beach (year-round!), camping, and going on coffee dates with friends and family.

My name is Lelia Mangham and I have had the honor of working at The Coop School for 17 years. It has been such a pleasure watching the school grow and change. I have spent the previous 16 years here as first,  an assistant teacher and then a lead teacher. This year I will be the new Preschool Coordinator and I look forward to being able to serve this wonderful community in this new role. My goal is to be a resource for you on all things preschool and help you to all transition both into our wonderful school community and into your specific classes. I look forward to meeting all of you and having an exciting and fulfilling school year.

After studying history at Wheaton College, Massachusetts, I pursued my teaching credentials at Bank Street College for Literacy and K-6 certification. I also taught math in Hartford, Connecticut, and later worked with students on the autism spectrum at the Manhattan Children’s Center. After student teaching at Brooklyn New School and two years as an assistant teacher in the Fourth Grade at Brooklyn Friends School, I was honored to become the founding 4th-grade teacher at The Co-op School. I joined the Co-op School’s Middle School Divison in 2020 as the Math and Science teacher for grade 6-8. With a range of experiences across grade levels and learning styles, I couldn’t feel more prepared for my role as Upper Division Head, encompassing our lower and middle school program, supporting teachers, students, and school culture. At home, I like to play guitar – especially with students at school performances, see live music, swim, write, complete the crossword, and spend time with my son John, daughter Grace, and wife, Kate, as well as other family and friends here in the city.

I’ve lived in Brooklyn for the last 16 years but I was born in California, lived in Connecticut and Singapore, and went to college in upstate New York at Hobart and William Smith Colleges where I earned a BA in English. Before becoming a teacher I worked in photography and television for shows like Iron Chef and Martha Stewart, but after volunteering with BuildOn- a non-profit organization that helps to build schools around the world- I switched careers, got my Masters degree from Fordham University, and never looked back. Now I’ve been teaching for over a decade and feel like The Co-op School has become my second home. My most important role though is that of father- I have a beautiful daughter starting kindergarten this year!

Johára brings nearly two decades of experience in community and belonging work in independent schools, and holds a B.A. from Wesleyan University and a J.D. from New York Law School. She currently serves on the NYSAIS EPIC Committee and the Board of Directors for Independent Trust.

A native of Brooklyn and an independent school graduate herself, this work has always felt personal to Johára. Outside of school, she is the founder of Past the Plate BK dinner club series that celebrates global cuisine across Brooklyn's restaurant community — rooted in her belief that you can't be part of a community without actually being in it. In her free time, she can usually be found vibing to soca music or losing herself in a good puzzle. She's looking forward to getting to know Co-op families this year.

I am a New York native and grew up on Long Island. I have a Bachelor’s degree in childhood education from Oneonta State College and a Master’s degree in special education from Hofstra University. My journey at The Co-op School began in 2013, when I started working with preschool students as a SEIT. My love for the community was instant—so much so that I moved to Brooklyn from Long Beach. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, exploring local neighborhoods, and trying new restaurants. I am so proud to be part of the Co-op community!

I was born and raised in Portugal and hold a Master’s degree in Media Studies and Communication, along with a Leadership certificate. For the past 17 years, I have worked as a Project Manager in advertising agencies. I have lived in Brooklyn since 2015 with my husband, Diogo, and our dog, Kika. In 2020, we welcomed our son, Tomás, who is now a happy Kindergartener at The Co-op School, and in 2024 we welcomed our daughter, Sara. As the daughter of two teachers, I am passionate about education, learning, and storytelling, and I believe in the power of learning through meaningful and enjoyable experiences and projects. In my free time, you’ll find me exploring the city’s parks, museums, and restaurants with my family. I love being part of The Co-op School community!

My name is Irish. I was born in the Philippines, grew up in New Jersey, and now live in Brooklyn. After getting my bachelor’s degree in the field of nursing, I decided to work in education and non-profit organizations focused on youth. After working for 5 years in a Brooklyn independent school, I joined a non-profit organization in Philadelphia which works in giving free eye exams and eyeglasses to all of the city’s K-12 students. When I came back to this wonderful city, I wanted to join a school that places value on community. I am delighted to join The Co-op School and am looking forward to being a reliable and supportive addition to the team. In my free time, you can usually find me at the park, bookstore, museum, the beach, or commuting everywhere on my bike.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, I am thrilled to be at The Co-op School and back home again! I bring a background in admissions and enrollment management, donor relations, and strategic storytelling within independent and private schools, with a focus on helping mission-driven institutions clearly articulate what makes them distinctive. Throughout my career, I have worked closely with families and students across all grade levels from early childhood through K-12 and college. Before joining The Co-op School, I served as Development and Donor Relations Manager at The Galloway School, where I cultivated meaningful relationships, assisted with fundraising and alumni initiatives, and helped to advance the school’s mission through strategic engagement. Prior to that, I held roles as Assistant Director of Admissions at The Galloway School, Director of K-8 Enrollment & Outplacement at Williamsburg Northside School, Director of Admissions at The Goddard School, and Admissions Counselor at Plaza College. I am especially passionate about connecting families and students to communities where they are truly known and supported as whole learners. As a learner myself, I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communications from Long Island University and a Master’s in Independent School Leadership from Vanderbilt University. Outside of work, I enjoy discovering new restaurants and spending quality time with family and friends.

I was born and raised in The Bronx, and received my Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dramatic Writing a few miles away at SUNY Purchase. I’m thrilled to be working with children once again and look forward to meeting all of the families. When not at school, I will most likely be reading at a Crown Heights coffee shop alongside my husband and our senior pup, or in our family’s backyard in Ulster County. I love skateboarding, food crawls, a good bookstore, helping animal rescues, and walking all around this wonderful city!

There’s nothing I love more than eliciting giggles from kids with my silly voices and gibberish words. I’ve worked in camps and schools since I was a teenager, and hold a Bachelors of Fine Arts and a Masters in Education Research. I’m also a Mom to 3 amazing daughters, each 3 years apart, and we’ve lived together in Midwood, Brooklyn their whole lives. I’m especially passionate about interdisciplinary, child-centered learning, and parent advocacy. Some of my absolute favorite things are painting, plants, martial arts, and visiting my husband’s home country of Brazil. I am so excited for my family to be part of a community that’s invested in learning and growing together.

I have been with The Co-op School since August 2019. I was born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, but while I was in high school my family and I moved to Pennsylvania, where I also earned my degree. Brooklyn has my heart, so I came back home. In my spare time, I enjoy doing CrossFit, traveling, reading, and spending time with my three dogs Nighty, Luna, and Thor.

Growing up in Queens, I developed a lifelong passion for sports, teamwork, and staying active. That passion led me to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Physical Education, which has allowed me to turn my love for movement into a career dedicated to helping students thrive. Before stepping into this role, I spent several years honing my craft across various independent schools, working as both a physical educator and a coach. I also had the privilege of serving as the Athletic Coordinator at Williamsburg Northside. These experiences have shaped my approach to physical literacy, teamwork, and building confidence in every student, regardless of their starting skill level. I truly believe in being a lifelong learner, both professionally and personally. Lately, I’ve been putting that philosophy to the test on the golf course! Learning to golf has been a fun new challenge that reminds me exactly what it’s like to be a student discovering a new skill. I am incredibly excited to work at Co-op this year, helping them discover new talents, and most importantly have fun staying active.

I'm from Rochester, NY, and before starting my career at The Co-op School, I was a pediatric travel nurse for about 4 years! I lived in lots of different cities, including Denver, San Diego, and San Francisco, before I made my way to NYC in 2021 and haven't looked back since. When I'm not at work, I enjoy making pottery, drawing, cooking, live music, and traveling the world. I also coach basketball and teach pottery at The Co-op School as part of our after-school enrichment programs!

Hi! I’m Marcus, the official pigeon of The Co-op School! I was chosen as the school’s  mascot last year, and I’ve been very excited to finally spread my wings and become part of the community. NYC artist, Caryn Cast, drew me, and I feel very proud of my uniqueness. I may be a pigeon, but I’m no ordinary bird. I’m curious, resourceful, social, and always ready to explore. I know my way around Brooklyn, I never miss a good gathering, and I believe there’s always room for one more at the table. I’m here to cheer on our students, celebrate their big (and little!) moments, pop up when you least expect me, and remind everyone that being part of Co-op means belonging to something special. I’m so excited for everything this year will bring. See you around campus 💚🌳🐦✨