Executive Directors
Kristin Harrison
I am a certified 7–12 ELA educator with a deep interest in instructional technology and supporting fellow teachers. I earned a B.S. in Journalism from Northeastern University and a Master’s in Education from Dowling College. Since 2006, I have been teaching at Hauppauge Public Schools where I have led numerous professional development workshops. Additionally, I have presented at the ASSET Technology Conference and am a Level 2 Google Certified Educator.
I live in Setauket with my husband and two daughters, and I’m proud to bring both real-world experience and a love of lifelong learning to everything I do in education.
Kate Sidden
With over 20 years of experience teaching Secondary English at Hauppauge Public Schools, I bring a deep passion for literacy, learning, and supporting fellow educators. I hold a B.A. in English Literature from The University of Scranton and I earned my M.Ed. from East Stroudsburg University in 2005. I live in Bohemia, NY, with my two boys, our dog, our cat, and a lively flock of 10 chickens. Through my work, I aim to inspire, empower, and equip teachers with the tools and strategies they need to thrive in today’s classrooms.
Our Instructors
Aristea Lucas
Dr. Catherine Carella-Dean
Aristea Lucas
With 29 years of experience in ENL education, I am passionate about helping multilingual learners grow academically, linguistically, and socially. I specialize in curriculum development, differentiated instruction, academic language development, and equitable access for all.
- Expert in ENL/TESOL curriculum, instructional leadership, and professional development
- Coach and trainer for teachers in strategies that support ELL success
- Integrating technology and AI tools to enhance learning and engagement
- Committed to equity, rigor, and creating inclusive learning environments
Amy Thompson
Dr. Catherine Carella-Dean
Aristea Lucas
I’ve been in education for 30 years, spanning both elementary and middle school classrooms. Over the years, my passion has shifted into the tech space as a Digital Literacy and Coding Teacher, as well as an Instructional Ed Tech Coach providing professional development for teachers, a Google Certified Trainer, and a new teacher mentor. My favorite part of this work is collaborating with teachers across all grade levels and content areas to make technology practical, approachable, and fun.
Dr. Catherine Carella-Dean
Dr. Catherine Carella-Dean
Dr. Catherine Carella-Dean
With more than 30 years in Education, I have served as an English teacher, Department
Chairperson, Professional Development Facilitator, School Building Administrator, and School
District Administrator. Throughout my career, I have been committed to supporting educators
and creating meaningful learning experiences for students. I believe every teacher has the
potential to lead, influence, and make a lasting impact, and I am passionate about helping
educators recognize their strengths and become innovative educational leaders. I am excited to
continue working with educators as they make lasting positive differences in their students’ lives.