Woodstock Day School

Language Instructor, Upper School
Email: jceluch@woodstockdayschool.org
Phone: 845-246-3744 Extension 304

The first day of school set the tone for my experience here at Woodstock Day. The Upper School morning meeting began; the teachers introduced themselves, students cheered. We were told to have a “wonderful day” by our Headmaster, Jim. After expressing my excitement about starting the day to Jim, I mentioned my concern about being able to follow my schedule. He told me, “Relax into it, Jay…just relax into it.” This was the most positive and emotionally settling start to any school day, let alone year that I’ve ever had.

Day after day the students and teachers at Woodstock Day School help me to “relax into it” through their energy, positive interaction, and encouragement.

My educational background includes a B.A. in Spanish from Marist College, Poughkeepsie, NY. My studies at Marist included a year abroad at the University of Madrid. I also received an M.S. in Education from SUNY, New Paltz. I am a member of the New York State Association of Foreign Language Teachers, and am included in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.

After college, I was hired at IBM as a technical writer. Interestingly enough, many of the skills used in organizing and developing information into books parallel the skills used in teaching. You need to start with a plan, organize your information, and either present it or package it for your customers; which in school are your students.

My teaching career includes nine years at Our Lady of Lourdes High School in Poughkeepsie, where I taught Spanish, French, and Latin. While at Lourdes I was one of the Junior Class advisors, helping to coordinate the ring ceremony and prom. Last year I taught Spanish at the New York Military Academy in Cornwall on Hudson. At NYMA I was also involved with the Middle States accreditation process. Now I look forward to continuing my career at WDS to share my knowledge and experience while continuing my learning process with new perspectives and experiences.

When not working I enjoy many types of music, while above all being an avid fan of Mozart. I enjoy watching movies and anything about the history of the film industry. I have a green thumb, and will try to grow any plant outside or inside. I also love to read different types of books, but have a particular interest in the supernatural and horror genres. Lastly, food is a true passion for me. I love just about everything, but anything that is chocolate or a dessert I would consider my most important food group.