Among the many recent changes introduced to BSGE is the arrival of a new assistant principal, Ms. Maria Mamo-Vacacela. She has been appointed as an Interim Acting Assistant Principal, meaning that before Ms. Mamo-Vacacela gets permanently hired she has to undergo a trial process. Ms. Johnson explained, “She is with us now, you can think of it as a probation period to see if it is going to be a good fit. Then, she gets interviewed for the position. Afterwards, teachers, students, and parents get a chance to say, “‘yes’ or ‘no’.” According to Ms. Johnson, Ms. Mamo-Vacacela is being tried for the position because “the responsibilities placed on principals have increased, and we may eventually need more help, especially if our population will grow.”
When asked about her education, Ms. Mamo-Vacacela said laughingly, “I’m a Queens girl.” After having graduated from Christ the King High School in Middle Village, she pursued and received B.A. degree in Mathematics at Queens College. Ms. Mamo-Vacacela also holds a master’s degree in multicultural education from the College of Mount St. Vincent. She perceives this specialization especially fitting here, at BSGE, because of our school’s diversity.
During her previous jobs, Ms. Mamo-Vacacela has worked in many schools that were larger than BSGE. Most recently she was in Richmond Hill High School, which has a population four times that of here. Ms. Mamo-Vacacela said, “being in a much smaller school [is] very interesting to me. The level and number of students was one of the biggest deciding factors in being an assistant principal here.”
However, she already has a full plate of duties. Ms. Johnson said, “Ms. Mamo-Vacacela has a million responsibilities.” She serves as a liaison between teachers and principals, and in particular, she “supervises teachers with a focus on math, science, foreign language, and the special education program.” Ms. Johnson added, “we also have a newly implemented teaching program in the 9th grade. She helps me monitor the building, particularly on the days when I am out.”
In addition to helping Ms. Johnson with important tasks around the building, Ms. Mamo-Vacacela has many ideas to develop BSGE. Some of her hopes for the school are to improve the cafegymatorium and have a real gym, basketball hoops and a swimming pool. Hopefully, hiring Ms. Mamo-Vacacela will be beneficial for the school in multiple ways.
The BACC Rag 