Huntington Highlights; Finley Teacher Mary Brandt’s Impact is Felt in Every Smile

Mary Brandt is finishing up her fourth year as a teacher at J. Taylor Finley Middle School. She works easily with students from every walk of lifes and participates in after school programs. In short, the faculty member has assumed key roles at Finley where her colleagues admire and value her.

“Mary goes above and beyond for her students and for their school experiences,” said Alexis Estrada, Finley’s first year assistant principal. “She has brought in amazing new ideas. She is someone who is forward thinking and is constantly putting others’ needs before her own. Her room is a warm and welcoming environment that is welcome to all. She has recently just moved into this position as a Life Skills Teacher. She has made the transition seamless, as if she has always been in this position. Watching her work with the students and seeing the smiles on their faces every day has been amazing to witness.

Ms. Brandt holds a Bachelor of Science degree in early childhood and childhood from SUNY Oneonta. She obtained a Master of Science degree in educational technology at Molloy College in Rockville Centre.

“Her impact is felt in every smile—she leads with innovation, puts others before herself, and creates a warm, inclusive space where students thrive,” Finley Principal Traci Roethel said. “Even in a new role, she has made the transition feel effortless, going above and beyond to elevate every student’s experience.”

Prior to coming to Huntington UFSD, Ms. Brandt taught at St. Michael’s Catholic Academy, Our Lady of Snows Catholic Academy, West Hempstead UFSD, Freeport’s Saturday STEAM Academy, Extended Day Program at Drexel Avenue School and Westbury UFSD.

“I am a passionate, creative and effective teacher with valuable experience in classroom administration, professional development and project planning,” Ms. Brandt said. “My dedication is to provide my students with appropriate learning activities and adventures designed to fulfill their potential for emotional, social and physical growth.”