596x Nominating Committee

PTA/SLT Candidate Statements

April 2026

 

Susie Wong-Benjamin PTA President & SLT

Dedicated parent of two autistic boys at 178X since 2020. I’ve engaged over 100 parents, strengthening community ties.Goals: Clear communication, transparent monthly treasurer’s reports, and General Membership involvement. Current SLT Co-Chair partnering successfully with Principal Siracuse for a proactive SLT. Citywide Council Special Education Member. Former PTA Corresponding Secretary. My priority is representing parental voices in all educational decisions. 

 

Andrea Saunders PTA President 

I am running for PTA President at P596X. For 13 years, I've been a parent in this community, advocating for equity, inclusion, and acceptance for children and families on the spectrum. I've shared their stories on social media for five years. I seek to formalize this commitment. My focus will be parent unity, staff appreciation, and building a positive future for every P596X child.

 

Michelle Padua PTA Recording Secretary

Michelle and her husband, Mark, have substantially fundraised for P596X on behalf of their son, Matthew. She consistently offers ideas to help families encourage their children's social skills and utilize OPWDD Services. In 2023, Michelle was the first parent to serve as the P596X PTA Liaison to the Administrative Staff. She wants to keep new ideas coming. 

 

Destiny Machuca PTA Recording Secretary

I am running for PTA Recording Secretary at P596X. As a mother of five, four of my children currently attend the 178 site. My experience as a P498 parent gives me a broader understanding of multiple site operations. I will bring consistency, care, and commitment to the role to keep our community connected. 

 

Rudy Castro PTA Recording Secretary & SLT

I'm seeking the roles of PTA Recording Secretary and SLT. My three children are all on the autism spectrum. P596X has been essential to my family for over 10 years. My wife and I actively support events. I want to increase father involvement and ensure all parents are informed, included, and connected. Serving would allow me to continue giving back.

 

Maria Kambitsis Treasurer & SLT 

Maria, a dedicated mother, previously helped families obtain Medicaid services. Her experience and determination make her a natural fit for the School Leadership Team, benefitting our school community.I want to make this school community an even better place. 

 

Shaniqua Bennett PTA Treasurer & SLT 

I'm running for PTA Treasurer and to continue serving on the SLT. I'm always volunteering, prioritizing inclusion, fairness, support, and community, and never hesitating to advocate. I've publicly advocated for adequate AC and, on the SLT, successfully implemented a new process to better support staff. I also consistently promote providing parents with access to free NYC museum, aquarium, and zoo access. 

 

Camille Ramirez SLT 

I seek to join the School Leadership Team (SLT) to improve outcomes for special ed students and families. As an evaluation consultant for a literacy initiative, I use data, family input, and continuous learning to strengthen programs. I offer a collaborative, equity-centered perspective, focusing on the needs of students with disabilities, family engagement, and student success. I want to contribute to shared decision-making and support a thriving community for all. 

 

Lauren Jeberg  SLT 

I want to serve on the School Leadership Team. As a dedicated parent, I am deeply invested in our students' success.This school's exceptional care and understanding of children with autism made it the best fit for my child. As a passionate advocate for special needs children, I will seek strong collaboration between families and staff and ensure parent voices are heard. 

 

Shenee Crooks SLT 

I am a highly outspoken advocate for students' needs. I have served on the SLT for two years, successfully advocating for school repairs, addressing rodent and climate control issues, securing the Culture Pass for children, and ensuring staff and students have access to necessary supplies. I have also volunteered my time, donated items, and supported school staff.

 

Leonela Delgado SLT 

Ms. Delgado is a mother, wife, and entrepreneur who prioritizes the children at P596X. She previously served on the SLT with the late UFT rep, Mr. Dixon, sharing a positive perspective. Ms. Delgado, a mother of four and caretaker for more family members, was featured on the Greatest Baker site by Buddy Valastro. Her knowledgeable and pleasant nature makes her a wonderful parent leader. 

 

Shawntreece Ware SLT 

Running for the SLT. With 20+ years of experience, including special needs, I understand student needs and will be a strong advocate. I am passionate about increasing parent involvement and strengthening family, staff, and student connections to achieve our goals. New to the school but highly present and consistently supportive of the classroom, I am eager to become more involved. 

 

Esther Schiavello SLT 

Esther is a dedicated mother, currently serving on the School Leadership Team and as a Patient Care Director of a prestigious hospital's Labor, Delivery, and Triage unit. She motivates her daughter, Leah, who recently dressed as a nurse for P596X. Ms. Schiavello is also a New York Road Runners club member. 

 

 

Kai-Marie Edwards SLT

I'm a 596X parent at 178, involved for 3 years. I have been active, serving as PTA Secretary for 1 year and SLT Secretary for the last 2 years. Having seen significant progress benefiting our children, I seek to continue my service on the SLT for another 2-year term. 

 

Lisa Berroa SLT 

I am seeking a nomination for SLT. I am deeply committed to supporting our school community and aim to contribute thoughtful input, advocate for our children and help foster a positive school culture. An organized, friendly, and hardworking mom with nearly 20 years in customer service. She would bring a crucial, compassionate "loving" leadership currently missing from the SLT.