Ellis Recognizes Departing Employees in 2024–2025 School Year
After 18 years of inspiring students at The Ellis School, Middle School Science teacher and Science Department Chair Diane Reckless will retire at the end of this school year.
"I’ve really enjoyed being here. Everybody says this, but [Ellis] is a great community,” she said. “You’re respected as an educator, and the kids are so curious. It’s small enough that you know the students well and can really make a difference.”
Depatures and Role Changes
As the 2024-2025 school year draws to a close, we also want to recognize the Ellis faculty and staff who are moving on to new opportunities or changing roles. We are incredibly grateful for the time and talent they have given to the Ellis community, and we will have the chance to celebrate them at our end-of-school luncheon in June.
Gail Mosites, Performing Arts Department Chair, vocal teacher, and grade 7 advisor, is departing to focus on performing and spending time with family.
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Before joining Ellis, Ms. Reckless worked in science education with nonprofits, including The Nature Conservancy in Chicago. She earned her Master’s in Education from Carlow University in Pittsburgh and her undergraduate degree in biology at Calvin University in Michigan. She began her time at Ellis as a one-year appointment while a colleague was on maternity leave.
"I was a public school kid, so I was intrigued by the idea of working at an all-girls school,” she said. “I thought it would offer unique opportunities for growth as both a teacher and a woman."
Ms. Reckless has taught grade 7 and 8 science for several years and said it’s special to see Ellis students—including her own child, Alma BARTNIK ’16—stand strong and confident at graduation, ready for what’s next.
“It’s the reason we do this work,” she said.
Her colleagues agreed that she will leave behind a legacy of thoughtful leadership, inspiring teaching, and a true commitment to the students she has guided over the years.
Grade 7 Dean Jackie Prepelka said Ms. Reckless is “the calm in a middle school storm,” a witty, insightful and creative person who is always supportive of students and colleagues alike. “She has a passion for passing science along to the next generation of strong women,” Ms. Prepelka said.
Middle School English Teacher Amy Rigsby agreed.
“Diane is a gem! She is always noticing when a student or colleague needs support, and she is quick to offer encouragement while asking great questions for problem-solving,” Ms. Rigsby said. “Diane nurtures connections with others. She is ever thoughtful and takes the time and interest to really get to know her students and colleagues. Her love for learning, animals, and experiments is effusive, and this vibrancy translates to amazing teaching.”
“Diane's curiosity, passion, humor, and unbeatable taste in overalls has left an indelible mark on the Ellis Middle School,” said Middle School Division Head Jenn Moynihan. “She will be missed by her students and colleagues alike, and I know she has many wonderful adventures ahead!”
Depatures and Role Changes
As the 2024-2025 school year draws to a close, we also want to recognize the Ellis faculty and staff who are moving on to new opportunities or changing roles. We are incredibly grateful for the time and talent they have given to the Ellis community, and we will have the chance to celebrate them at our end-of-school luncheon in June.
Olivia Altman, Assistant Director of Admission, Lower School, will work in a consultative role with Enrollment Management next year as she prepares for family career changes.
Leah Brennan, Upper School English teacher is departing to pursue a career change.
Jackie Dame will move from her role as MS/US School Math & Science Teacher to teach 7th and 8th grade science, and will help with a variety of other activities.
Kim DeBaldo will move from teaching Kindergarten to Lower School Physical Education Teacher.
Harry Frazee, second grade teacher, is departing to pursue new opportunities.
Warren Giles, Upper School history teacher, will move to California to teach and be closer to family.
Jean Mercier, who has been on extended family leave, has decided to retire so that he can spend more time with family.
Shane Mills, Math Department Chair and Upper School math teacher, is departing to pursue an opportunity at Shadyside Academy.
Gail Mosites, Performing Arts Department Chair, vocal teacher, and grade 7 advisor, is departing to focus on performing and spending time with family.
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