Linda M. Suarez, Ed.D.
Board Member

Dr. Suarez, a visionary administrator, brings over 20 years of leadership experience in New York urban and suburban schools. A native New Yorker, she holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Education from New York Institute of Technology, a Master’s of Science from C.W. Post/L.I.U., and a Doctorate in Education Leadership and Policy from Fordham University. Her extensive background includes supervising Career and Technical Education, an Alternative High School, and Special Education programs.

Dr. Suarez conducts school quality reviews for the New York State Education Department and collaborates with district schools to develop college and career readiness programs. Her recent study, “Influence of Technology on 21st Century Career and Technical Education Administrators,” underscores her commitment to integrating technology into education effectively. She offers targeted professional development in Technology-supported Curriculum and Instruction, School Organization Technology Planning, and Education Leadership to support the needs of the millennial learner while addressing national education reforms.

Christine Ireland, MAT, BFA
Board Member

Christine is a dynamic teacher known for her creativity and innovation in motivating students. Her award-winning curriculums, utilized in over 30 school districts across Westchester, Putnam, and Dutchess counties, reflect her dedication to education. Additionally, Christine is a Board-Certified Educational Advocate and Fellow at the National Special Education Advocacy Institute. She serves as an Educational Advocate and Social Media Marketing Director for Open Doors Educational Advocates. Committed to community service, Christine volunteers with March of Dimes and Hudson Valley Animal Rescue and Sanctuary.

Melissa Baretto
Board Member

Melissa Baretto serves as the Benefits Trust Chairperson for the BOCES Teachers Association, managing benefits distribution for 400 members. She held the role of President for nine years, negotiating contracts and expanding membership across three units. Additionally, she teaches Spanish at the Southern Westchester BOCES District. Melissa brings extensive leadership, education, benefits, and human resources expertise to our board.

Stephen Robert, MBA
Chairman of the Board, Chief Executive Officer

Since 2007, Stephen has immersed himself in the realm of credit, aiding individuals in understanding and improving their credit profiles. He received comprehensive training from John Ulzheimer, a former Equifax and FICO expert, through Credit Summit seminars, Credit Expert certification, and personal dialogue. Equipped with this expertise, Stephen has conducted numerous presentations to professionals and clients, elucidating the intricacies of the credit scoring system and offering actionable advice. Having established two successful credit repair companies, Stephen now directs his focus towards nonprofit endeavors. Through his companies, he has meticulously reviewed thousands of credit reports, providing free consultations and tailored services to clients in need. His offerings include credit education, debt settlement representation as a limited power of attorney, and direct engagement with credit bureaus to rectify negative accounts.

Jason Poniatowski, MA, M.Ed
Board Secretary, Chief Operating Officer

Jason brings 17 years of experience as a Business Educator, specializing in personal finance, budgeting, and computer science for high school students. He developed a curriculum approved by both the NYS Education Department and the National Healthcareer Association, earning 15 articulation credits from local colleges. In addition to teaching, he has served as the Corresponding Secretary for the BOCES Teacher Association for 9 years. Jason is also the Chairperson of the Sweetest Little Charity Foundation, Inc. and volunteers as a religious education instructor at St. James the Apostle Church in Carmel, NY. He holds an MS in Ed Leadership from Niagara University, a Masters in Curriculum Design from the University of Phoenix, and a BBA from St. Bonaventure University, where he studied Finance, Marketing, and Philosophy.