DAWN ORTIZ AND ROSANNA RIZZO
Stepping Stones has been a beacon of educational excellence since it opened its doors in 2002. Founded by two dedicated educators, Dawn and Rosanna, the institution has thrived under their leadership and vision. Their backgrounds and commitment have shaped Stepping Stones into a nurturing and dynamic learning environment.
Before embarking on their journey with Stepping Stones, Dawn and Rosanna honed their teaching skills as educators with the New York City Board of Education. Over the course of three years, they worked side by side in the same public school, gaining invaluable experience and insights into the educational needs of children.
Both Rosanna and Dawn hold a New York State Professional Teaching Certificate, a testament to their expertise and dedication to the field of education. Their commitment to continuous learning is evident in their annual attendance at Director Trainings, where they stay abreast of the latest educational trends and techniques.
They are not only the founders but also the heart and soul of Stepping Stones. They oversee the day-to-day operations, ensuring that the school’s environment is conducive to learning and growth. Their responsibilities extend to curriculum planning, where they craft educational programs that meet the diverse needs of their students.
In addition to curriculum development, they place a strong emphasis on parent education. By fostering open communication and providing resources, they empower parents to support their children’s educational journey. Staff supervision is another cornerstone of their leadership. Rosanna and Dawn are deeply involved in the admissions process, selecting staff and students who align with Stepping Stones’ values and mission.
The founders recognize that a well-trained staff is crucial for student success. To this end, Rosanna and Dawn conduct regular staff development trainings. These sessions focus on innovative teaching methods and strategies, ensuring that their teachers are equipped to deliver high-quality education.
Monthly staff meetings serve as a platform for sharing new ideas and best practices. These gatherings help teachers stay informed about the latest developments in lesson planning, enabling them to implement successful strategies in their classrooms.
Rosanna and Dawn’s passion for education and their unwavering dedication have established Stepping Stones as a leader in early childhood education. Through their visionary leadership, commitment to staff development, and focus on innovative teaching, they continue to create a nurturing and effective learning environment for all students. Stepping Stones stands as a testament to what can be achieved when educators are driven by a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of children.
DAWN ORTIZ (DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER)
Dawn is a passionate educator and community advocate with a strong academic background. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Joseph’s College and a Master of Arts in Education from St. John’s University, which provided a solid foundation for her career in teaching and educational leadership. Her journey began in Brooklyn as a head teacher at a small nursery school, where she spent five years nurturing children aged two to four. This early experience allowed Dawn to develop vital skills in early childhood education, creating a warm and engaging environment for her young students.
After her time in nursery education, Dawn transitioned to teaching 3rd grade in a New York City public school, where she spent three years. During this period, she embraced leadership roles, including serving as a grade leader and maintaining a model classroom as part of the America’s Choice Comprehensive School reform program. Her dedication to professional development shone through as she conducted workshops on balanced literacy, sharing her knowledge with peers.
As a co-founder and co-director of Stepping Stones, Dawn continues to influence the education sector positively. Her leadership and vision are instrumental in shaping the organization’s mission, ensuring it effectively meets community needs. Outside of her professional life, Dawn resides in Bay Ridge with her husband, Keith, and their three children. She is actively engaged in her community and enjoys cooking, traveling with her family, and spending time with her children Her commitment to education and community service reflects her desire to make a meaningful impact. Overall, Dawn’s journey as an educator and leader exemplifies her unwavering dedication to fostering young minds and strengthening her community.
ROSANNA RIZZO (DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER)
Rosanna Rizzo is a passionate educator and the co-founder of Stepping Stones, where her commitment to early childhood education shines through. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education and a Master of Science Degree in Education from a city university, providing her with a solid foundation in educational theories and practices. Rosanna’s journey in education began while teaching upper grades in a public school, where she witnessed the transformative impact of effective teaching on her students. Her leadership skills became evident as she took on the role of grade leader, organizing meetings with fellow teachers to collaboratively plan the curriculum. This experience fueled her desire to co-found Stepping Stones, allowing her to extend her influence on young learners’ education.
In her role as co-founder and co-director at Stepping Stones, Rosanna has played a pivotal role in designing the curriculum with Dawn, with a strong focus on nurturing early childhood education and supporting local teachers. She emphasizes the importance of remaining informed about new educational trends, advocating for the integration of innovative practices within the classroom to enhance learning experiences. Rosanna is deeply committed to continuous professional development, not only for herself but also for her teaching staff, ensuring that Stepping Stones remains a leader in educational excellence.
Beyond her professional commitments, Rosanna enjoys traveling with her husband and their three daughters. She treasures these family adventures as opportunities to gain new perspectives, which she integrates into her educational philosophy. Her love for learning and exploration is a central theme that permeates both her personal and professional life. Through her dedication to education and her impactful role at Stepping Stones, Rosanna Rizzo is making significant strides in shaping the future of young learners and supporting educators in their growth.