From the dedicated maintenance staff ensuring the school's physical space is welcoming to the highest echelons of leadership charting our course, the Trey Whitfield School team operates as a unified force, each member playing a crucial role in our collective success. Whether maintaining the grounds, keeping our classrooms pristine, or holding pivotal administrative roles, every team member is a linchpin in creating an environment where students and families thrive. Led by our visionary leadership, the administration and staff work collaboratively to provide unwavering support to our esteemed educators and ensure a positive, enriching experience for each student. Whether visible in prominent roles or working diligently behind the scenes, our team, from the ground up, is an integral part of upholding the vibrant culture and values that define Trey Whitfield School. Their collective dedication and passion contribute to the creation of a nurturing atmosphere where every student is not just educated but truly cared for within our close-knit educational family.
Founding Team
Janie Whitney
For over three decades, Janie C. Whitney has been a transformative force in providing exceptional education for inner-city children in New York. As the visionary founder of Bethlehem Baptist Academy, later renamed Trey Whitfield School, Ms. Whitney instilled her powerful philosophy of "Love is Learning... Learning is Love" shaping countless graduates who not only excel academically but also lead fulfilling lives. Though no longer directly involved in the school's daily operations, her profound impact remains palpable, with her legacy continuing to shape the institution's ethos and guiding principles. In addition to her pivotal role as CEO of Trey Whitfield School, Ms. Whitney co-founded the Trey Whitfield Foundation, which tirelessly works to provide educational opportunities to deserving youth. Ms.Whitney's influence extends far beyond the walls of her school; she also served as a Trustee of Eagle Hill School and has received numerous awards for her outstanding contributions to education and humanitarian efforts. From her humble beginnings in Georgia to her illustrious career in education, Ms. Whitney's unwavering dedication to enriching the lives of children stands as a testament to her enduring legacy.
A.B. Whitfield
For 40 years, A.B. Whitfield has been an integral part of Trey Whitfield School, serving as the co-founder and current CEO. With a rich background in education and athletics, including a Master's Degree from Long Island University and a successful career as a professional football player in the NFL and CFL, Mr. Whitfield brings a wealth of experience to his role. As an educator for 17 years with the New York City Board of Education and as an adjunct professor and wrestling coach at York College, Mr. Whitfield has dedicated his life to shaping the futures of countless students. His favorite part of the job is communicating with the students and witnessing their progress firsthand. Mr. Whitfield particularly cherishes the school's Christmas Show and Graduation events, where he sees the culmination of his students' hard work and dedication. In terms of destinations he'd love to visit, Mr. Whitfield envisions taking the entire school to Atlanta to learn more about Martin Luther King Jr., or to Washington D.C. to visit the African American Museum.
What's your favorite activity or method for destressing after a busy day at school?
Mr. Whitfield finds solace and relaxation after a busy day at school by spending time with some of the staff who stay late. This camaraderie and shared experience provide a supportive environment where they can unwind, decompress, and reflect on the day's events together.
Leadership Team
Alfonzo Forrest
Alfonzo Forrest has dedicated 41 years to the field of education, serving in various roles such as elementary school teacher, middle school program coordinator, middle school assistant principal, and elementary school principal with the NYC Department of Education. Throughout his career, he has worked tirelessly to transform schools and has become a sought-after consultant for educational and organizational leadership. Inspired by Ron Edmonds' quote, “We can, whenever and wherever we choose, successfully teach all children whose schooling is of interest to us,” Mr. Forrest believes in the holistic approach to education, focusing on the 'whole' child rather than just test scores. As the Chief Education Administrator, his favorite part of the job is witnessing the academic, social, and emotional growth of students, as well as hearing how they've been impacted or inspired by his work. Mr. Forrest particularly enjoys school chapel services and school-wide activities, as they foster a sense of community and spiritual growth among students and staff alike.
Can you share a memorable moment or experience you've had with students?
One of the most memorable experiences I've had with students is becoming the Godfather of the children of two of my former students. This was and remains an incredible honor for me. These students have become like family to me, and being entrusted with such a significant role in their lives is truly heartwarming. It's a testament to the strong bonds and lasting connections that can be formed through education, and I feel privileged to have played a part in their lives beyond the classroom.
Jamillah Salahuddin
With over thirty-five years of experience, Ms. Jamillah Salahuddin currently serves as the Early Childhood Director at Trey Whitfield School, where she has been since 2022. Inspired by her mother, who spent twenty-seven years teaching elementary school in Brooklyn, Ms. Jamillah found her calling in education and has since been committed to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning. Her journey in teaching began as a substitute teacher, where she had the privilege of working at her mother's school, embodying the lessons instilled by her mother and igniting a passion for education that continues to drive her work today.
Administration Team
Merlene Blair
Merlene Blair has been an integral part of Trey Whitfield School starting as an office clerk in 2001 and now serving as the Business Personnel/Bursar. Her favorite aspect of the job is witnessing students progress from early childhood to successfully graduating eighth grade and moving on to prestigious prep schools and high schools. Among her favorite school events are the end of school year outing and the weekly Friday morning chapel. A destination she would love to visit is Dubai. One memorable experience for her was receiving appreciation and gratitude from students for her encouragement and moral support during their tenure at the school, particularly upon graduating.
A note from Ms. Blair:
I would like to acknowledge our founder, Ms. Janie C. Whitney, for her years of commitment to enriching young minds from the East New York Area and beyond. Her vision and dedication have played a pivotal role in shaping Trey Whitfield School into the nurturing and vibrant educational community it is today.
Pamela Green
Pamela Green brings over 17 years of dedicated service to Trey Whitfield School, where she serves as Executive Secretary. With a foundation rooted in her previous role as Executive Secretary to her pastor for over 26 years, Mrs. Green embodies values of truth, consistency, and excellence in her work. As a Christian, wife, mother, and grandmother, she cherishes the opportunity to contribute to the school's educational vision established by Ms. Whitney over 40 years ago. Mrs. Green finds joy in supporting the development of the children entrusted to the school, particularly relishing the moments of interaction with students, whether in Friday morning Chapel or during daily routines.
What's your favorite activity or method for destressing after a busy day at school?
Outside of work, Mrs. Green finds solace in simple pleasures like cooking, watching favorite TV shows, or taking leisurely walks to destress after a busy day at school.
Angela Lynch
Angela Lynch has been an integral part of the Trey Whitfield School community since 2019, serving as the Parent Coordinator for the Early Childhood Program. As a former Trey Whitfield School parent herself, Ms. Lynch is well-equipped to understand the needs and concerns of our families. Her role involves building strong relationships with parents and providing support whenever needed for the students. She finds great joy and fulfillment in helping families navigate their children's educational journeys.
What's your favorite school event or tradition?
Ms. Lynch cherishes the Step-Up ceremony held each year at Trey Whitfield School. Witnessing students transition to the next phase of their education is a moment of pride and joy for her.
Karen Ramgobin
Ms. Ramgobin joined the Trey Whitfield School community as a hall monitor in 2023. She finds fulfillment in assisting students, particularly the kindergarten children, who bring joy and warmth to her day. Ms. Ramgobin's favorite part of her job is being helpful to the kids, fostering a supportive environment where they feel cared for and appreciated. She treasures the school's Chapel events, which provide moments of reflection and spiritual connection for the entire community. A memorable experience for Ms. Ramgobin is when students express their gratitude for her care and attention, a heartwarming reminder of the impact she has on their lives. After a busy day at school, Ms. Ramgobin finds solace in unwinding and destressing by watching TV, allowing her to relax and recharge for the next day's adventures.
What's a destination that you'd love to visit?
I would love to visit Disney World because I'd love to be captivated by its magical atmosphere and the promise of experiencing boundless joy and wonder amidst its enchanting attractions and characters.
Maintenance Team
Jose Mojica
As the Head of Maintenance at Trey Whitfield School since 2009, Jose Mojica takes pride in his role in ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for students. Interacting with the children on a daily basis is his favorite part of the job, fostering connections that contribute to the sense of community within the school. While he enjoys all aspects of his work, lunchtime with the children holds a special place in his heart, providing moments of joy and camaraderie.
What's a destination that you'd love to visit?
I'd love to visit, Paris emerges as a dream destination for me, drawn to its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.