Coaching and Caring Memories!

Greetings! I am Mayra Baldi. I have served as an instructional coach for our program, and it is with much respect and gratitude that I now move on to a new role as an Assistant Principal in District 31.

Over the past 25 years, I have held various roles in early childhood and elementary education, including assistant teacher, lead teacher, grade leader, bilingual teacher, TESOL teacher, ICT teacher, dual language teacher, early childhood director, and instructional coach.

Nine years ago, I had the privilege of joining the NYC Division of Early Childhood as the division embarked on the historic expansion of what would eventually become Pre-K for All. I am currently amazed by the further expansion of high-quality 3K for All, extending into toddler and infant programs.

From the outset of meeting Dianne Gounardes, the founding principal of District 20 Pre-K Centers, and the incredible administrative team, I felt a deep connection and sense of belonging to this program. I knew that great things were about to emerge, providing countless children and families with an amazing opportunity to receive a high-quality early childhood education.

It was an honor to serve as one of the instructional coaches for District 20 Pre-K Centers. I supported teachers through professional development and one-on-one coaching tailored to their needs and the needs of their students. I strived to ensure that our children receive the best early childhood experience to prepare them for their future educational journeys. I was also happy to take on various roles to support the program in different ways.

Culturally responsive practices, supporting emergent multilingual learners, and promoting progress on issues of racial equity and inclusion are passions of mine. I understand the importance of creating a rigorous, developmentally appropriate early childhood program for all young children, and I have supported leaders, teachers, and colleagues in this endeavor. I am dedicated to serving the needs of English language learners, multilingual learners, children with challenges, and their families.

Personally, I am a proud mother of three young ladies, all of whom have graduated or will be graduating (my youngest this year) from New York Public Schools. My eldest daughter has made me a proud grandmother of four vibrant, culturally diverse young children. I believe that parents and families are a child's first educators, and I understand the importance of creating strong, positive partnerships between school communities and families. Social-emotional learning and responding kindly to children experiencing struggles and trauma are critical aspects of our programs and priorities in my work. I have experienced deep loss during the COVID pandemic, and I know firsthand the effects of trauma in our lives. I channel positivity through the children and families I serve with love.

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve, and I will always cherish my time here at District 20 Pre-K Centers. Although I am moving on, I know I will always be a special part of this “family.” I will cherish these memories forever!