At John Dewey High School, success isn’t built solely in the classrooms- it’s fostered through the dedication and leadership of those who work tirelessly behind the scenes. This international women’s month, The Dragon’s Den profiled two incredible ladies, whose hard work and commitment shape the heart of our school.
Samantha Escalera serves as the Coordinator of Student Activities, Senior Advisor, and Art teacher here at Dewey. She joined the faculty in September 2017, following her educational journey in Long Island.
Initially going to school for fashion illustration, Escalera’s passion for art ultimately led her to pursue a career in teaching, where her goal is to demonstrate to students that the arts offer a place to everyone, regardless of their background.
She navigates the challenge of balancing her roles as a mother, teacher, and organizer. She shared that “Society places certain labels on women, and it’s hard to live up to them. There are also self-imposed challenges.” Despite these pressures, Escalera maintains balance, prioritizing her work ethic and personal life.
Even while pregnant, she doesn’t feel constrained by societal expectations. “Being a woman has so many layers, and it’s difficult no matter the job.”
Within these layers, she fosters growth in others.
“I think Escalera empowers students by encouraging their creativity, especially by establishing a bond with students. ” says senior Joshua Muentes. “She helps me by giving support in a way of not just being a teacher but almost like a close friend. It makes me feel respected and really listened to.”
Over the course of her career, she has come more confident in expressing herself, and has honed her ability to communicate clearly and assertively.
“Ms. Escalera has a very calming and welcoming aura to her that many other people don’t have. It makes you want to stay around her.” commented senior Jeniya Tirado.
While Escalera’s impact on students is undeniable, there’s another key figure who plays an equally important role in supporting our community; Ms. Vanessa Berthaud, the school’s community coordinator.
Known as ‘The Jack of all Trades’ as she addresses herself, Vanessa’s journey started right after high school, working in a computer lab while still a student. With over 25 years of experience, she has dedicated herself to working with the board of education.
However, with success comes its challenges. In college, Vanessa initially pursued electrical engineering, where she was the only woman in the class. During one memorable moment, her professor told her outright to consider switching majors, stating that there was simply no place for women in that field. While disheartening at the time, Vanessa didn’t let it define her, nor stop her from continuing her education.
Instead, she shifted her focus to computer engineering and excelled in her new path, proving that setbacks don’t have to be the end of the road.
Today, Vanessa feels empowered to achieve anything she sets her mind to. Her experience pushed her to explore new opportunities and as a result, she has received several awards for pioneering in technology as a female, solidifying her role as a leader and innovator.
“She cares a lot about the students, their well being.” added administrative assistant Ms. Palermo. “She’s like the mother of the building, and does her best to ensure that everything is taken care of.”
In honoring the achievements of women both at Dewey and world beyond it, we acknowledge that their contributions are essential and deserving of recognition- now and always.
