Susan Gemberling - Executive Director
In 1973 Susan joined the Morningside staff as an assistant teacher. In 1975, she received her Montessori Primary certificate and became, successively, a head teacher, the teacher-director and in 1985, the full-time Executive Director. Susan's insight into early childhood development and her irreverent sense of humor help to make Morningside a fun place to teach and learn as well as a fun place for children, teachers and parents to form a community.
Susan has a Masters of Education of the Deaf & Hard of Hearing (1968) from Teachers College, Columbia University as well as numerous credits in post-graduate work in early childhood education. She received her permanent NYS Teaching Certificate in 1976. Prior to coming to Morningside, Susan worked at the Special Ed. Department of the Lexington School for the Deaf.
Susan's son John was born in 1981 and when he was old enough, attended Morningside. John is now an improv comedian (principally at the UCB Theatre in NYC) and comedy writer. In April, 2008, Susan married her high school sweetheart.
Debbie Gonzalez - Assistant Director
Debbie has been the Assistant Director since 1989 and was an MMS teacher for a number of years prior to assuming her present position. Her common sense and ability to get things done keeps the Office moving along smoothly.
Debbie and her husband, Sal, have two sons, Carlos and Raymond.
