Teacher Spotlight: Francine Monti

Today we are proud to highlight Francine Monti, who has been a standout teacher in Brewster for 23 years! For the first six years, she looped back and forth between first and second grade, but has been teaching second ever since.

We are honored that Francine Monti picked Brewster as the place to dedicate her career. Her commitment and passion have made an impact on generations of students.

Q: What kind of student were you?

A: I know it may be hard to believe, but I was an extremely quiet and shy student. I was more of an observer than a participator. I was highly conscientious and prided myself in always doing my best. I took school very seriously and I was a rule follower. As a student, I was known for always helping others and being the person people depended on.

Q: Why did you become a teacher?

A: Teaching provides the opportunity for me to work with others, make a difference in children’s lives, and learn and grow every day. I hoped to inspire students to believe in themselves and be surprised by their accomplishments. I wanted to foster students' passion for learning, help them face challenges, and develop resilience. I was confident that this was a profession I wished to be part of.

Q: What's one thing your students might be surprised to learn about you?

A: In our class, we share our hobbies and interests. One thing my students might be surprised to learn about me is I have a collection of over 130 espresso cups (good thing they’re small). They are from all over the world and most of them are antiques. They’re on display in a special piece of furniture my dad made for me. This is quite different from a Pokémon Card collection!

Q: What's something you'd like to do or someplace you'd like to go? (bucket list more or less)?

A: One thing I always wanted to do is learn to play piano. It has been my dream since I was a little girl. I am looking forward to the day I get to learn and play in the near future.

Q: Best piece of advice ever given?

A: I constantly remind myself to “Focus on what you can control and always keep things in perspective”. This helps me to stay positive and prioritize essentials.

Q: Has a student ever taught you anything?

A: Although some of my students think I know a lot of information, I remind them that I am actually learning alongside them daily. They often remind me to slow down and enjoy the small moments. I treasure when they notice and explain a way to solve a problem or give an opinion that I hadn’t thought of. It’s a great opportunity to share with my students how we are all constantly learning.

Q: Favorite Brewster tradition

A: My favorite Brewster tradition is the Second Grade Clap Out on the last day of school. All the JFK students line the hallways and clap as the second graders walk through the hallways on the way to their buses. The students get to see their former teachers and staff members cheering for them along with all the kindergartners and first graders. They are filled with smiles, laughter, and some tears as they’re leaving JFK and heading off to CV Starr. I feel like a momma bear, knowing she has done her job, sending off her cubs prepared for the great wide world of future schooling.