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Difference Maker award recipients are staff members who have made an overwhelming impact on the lives of others inside and outside of our classrooms. This year, we will be honoring one from each school and one from each district department that are considered “unsung heroes.”

The Greenwich Public Schools “Difference Maker 2.0” award is presented monthly to full or part-time employees who, through their unique commitment and humanitarian spirit, have made exceptional and lasting contributions to the GPS community through one life-changing event, extraordinary long-lasting efforts, or making a difference in the lives of others every single day. Honorees are officially nominated by principals and district senior leadership.

This honor is open to all employees of Greenwich Public Schools, full or part time, in good standing, pending a human resources review. It excludes contractors or employees of other town agencies. 

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Superintendent Names November Honorees for Difference Makers 2.0

Greenwich Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones revealed today the November honorees for “Difference Makers 2.0.”

Difference Maker award recipients are staff members who have made an overwhelming impact on the lives of others inside and outside of our classrooms. This year, we will be honoring one from each school and one from each district department that are considered “unsung heroes.”

“The Difference Makers program is off to a tremendous start,” Dr. Jones said. “This year’s program has opened up new avenues for staff to be recognized, and it seems as if the depth of individuals making a difference in the district on a daily basis is limitless. I am so proud of the efforts of all of our staff and so pleased to recognize this month’s Difference Maker honorees.”

The Greenwich Public Schools “Difference Maker 2.0” award is presented monthly to full or part-time employees who, through their unique commitment and humanitarian spirit, have made exceptional and lasting contributions to the GPS community through one life-changing event, extraordinary long-lasting efforts, or making a difference in the lives of others every single day. Honorees are officially nominated by principals and district senior leadership.

2025-2026 Difference Makers 2.0
November 2025

  • Jasmine Bartlett, professional assistant, Cos Cob
  • Emily Brown, professional assistant, Western MS
  • Briana Caporizzo, school nurse, Old Greenwich
  • John Ehlinger, ALP teacher, Julian Curtiss
  • Rosa Esposito, world language teacher, North Mianus
  • Elizabeth Farfaglia, administrative assistant, Parkway
  • Nick Fesko, professional assistant, Greenwich HS
  • Ismael Franqui, FLES teacher, New Lebanon
  • Samantha Franzese, science teacher, Central MS
  • Madeline Frost, administrative assistant, Eastern MS
  • Pamela Lamanna, professional assistant, IS at Dundee
  • Michelle Mertz, IT support technician, Riverside
  • Mary Moriarty, customer service rep, Central Office
  • Joleigh Nelson-Mora, literacy specialist, Glenville
  • Nicole O'Neill, PreK teacher, North Street
  • Allison Pugni, PPS data specialist, Central Office
  • Linda Quinto, admin staff assistant, Hamilton Avenue
  • Martha Ramkellawan, food services director, Central Office
  • Carrie Steers, district database admin, Central Office
  • Tony Tripodi, instruct tech supervisor, Central Office

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