Our first March Mustang of the Month is elementary teacher Nicole Madia. She began her studies at Mohawk Valley Community College where she earned her associate’s degree in early childhood and childhood education. Madia is also a proud Red Dragon, having earned both her bachelor’s degree and master’s degrees from SUNY Cortland.
From a young age, Madia knew she wanted to be an elementary teacher. The positive impact that her teachers had on her influenced the way she teaches her students as well. “It is a privilege, honor, and joy to do what I do.” When Madia first stepped onto the Mount Markham campus in 2016, she immediately felt at home. The encouragement she received from administrators, students, and colleagues fostered a supportive school community. She also believes in putting others first, even when it’s not convenient. “I truly believe that when you have the mentality and desire to serve and love others well, you will see such beautiful results!” Madia credits her faith and strong family upbringing for laying the foundation for her success as a teacher, bringing out her student's true potential as kind, compassionate, and selfless human beings.
Outside of work, Madia volunteers for her local church and community. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends, visiting local coffee shops, going for walks, reading, and watching movies. Madia extends her gratitude for receiving this honor, “I couldn't be prouder to be a Mustang!”
Our next Mustang of the Month is Mrs. Debra Puccio, a French teacher at the Middle School. After attending SUNY Geneseo, she began her teaching career in Rochester, where she taught middle and high school French. Originally hailing from Buffalo, Puccio moved to Central New York with her husband and their two children, where she began teaching at Mount Markham Middle School. Puccio expresses her happiness in working at Mount Markham, stating, “I enjoy working in such a supportive community.” Her favorite aspect of the job is teaching children about other cultures and languages. Outside of teaching, Puccio enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.
Our final Mustang of the Month is high school teacher Tammy Stealey. After she was recruited for the MVCC cross-country team, Stealey pursued her associate degree in Human Resources. She continued her education at the College of Saint Rose for her bachelor’s degree in Special Education and completed her master’s degree in Reading at Russell Sage College.
Mount Markham has become a positive environment for Stealey. “I enjoy being a part of a school community that brings camaraderie and unity in order to help develop our youth's minds,” she mentions. Her willingness to work collaboratively and graciously with others, regardless of the circumstances, are values that she holds in her work in the high school.
When she’s not shaping the minds of her students at Mount Markham, Stealey enjoys traveling the world, kickboxing, and spending time with her loved ones.