Laura Avakians, Fellow

P.S. 094 David D. Porter

Queens, NY

Laura Avakians is starting her ninth year as principal of the David D. Porter School in Queens, New York. Prior to becoming principal, she has worked as a teacher and Assistant Principal supporting students, staff, and families in various NYC schools. Since 2014, as principal, Laura has devoted her energy working towards 21st Century learning opportunities for all students. She prides herself in establishing a culturally responsive teaching ecosystem by creating a nurturing and inclusive environment for all learners. At her helm, the David D. Porter School became the recipient of the 2020 National Blue Ribbon School Award, and has been ranked among the highest performing elementary schools in NYC. Laura's passion lies in always exploring “what else is possible”. This has led the school to be recognized as a NYC Computer Science for All school. Her students enjoy hands-on experiences in the school’s Maker Space and the hydroponics lab and partnerships with various organizations to connect in class learning with real world experiences. As a result of her belief in teaching the whole child, there are ample enrichment opportunities from musical theater for all grades, to clubs, and many residencies during the school day. Laura values collaboration, exchange of creative ideas and encourages everyone to become leaders within their own school and beyond. Her pledge to her community is to continue to be persistent in her efforts to ensure all children receive the best education possible and share her passion for the profession through collaboration.

Under Laura's leadership P.S. 094 received a New York State School of Character designation. The only school in NYC to receive this award for the 2022-2023 school year.

Danielle Quartarone, Ally

Assistant Principal
P.S. 094 David D. Porter

Queens, NY

Danielle Quartarone has served as an assistant principal for eight years with experience ranging from the elementary to middle school level. Over her 16 years in education, Danielle believes her servant leadership approach coupled with her involvement in a variety of communities has leveraged her to support parents, students and staff with a unique lens. Leading with empathy, encouragement and by example, Danielle feels these three principles need to be in place for any successful and healthy school community. Some of Danielle’s passions in education are instructional coaching, development of people and creating sustainable structures and systems to support staff and students in an ongoing way. Outside her professional life, Danielle enjoys decorating her home for the seasons, serving on her church’s TV team, but most of all, creating beautiful memories with her two-and-a-half year old daughter, Milana and husband, Dave.