BROOKLYN HIGH SCHOOL OF THE ARTS
Robert W. Finley III
Principal
John J. Reedy 	Mauro Bressi
Assistant Principal Organization                                                                                              A.P. Humanities
              Rodney Harris 
             A.P. Math & Science 
November 5, 2005
Michelle Fratti Superintendent, Region 7 715 Ocean Terrace Staten Island, NY 10301
Dear Ms. Fratti:
I am writing in support of Mauro Bressi's candidacy for the position of Regional Instructional Specialist. I am certain Mr. Bressi possesses the qualifications and character the position requires.
I have known Mr. Bressi for three years. As my Assistant Principal of Humanities, Mr. Bressi has consistently proven to be a most competent, dependable, and professional supervisor. In fact, Mr. Bressi has made significant contributions to the development and success of the instructional program at Brooklyn High School of the Arts.
Among Mr. Bressi's accomplishments at BHSA are the following:
•    Mr. Bressi installed the Advanced Placement program in English and History
•    He designed the Writing Center program
•    He oversaw the implementation of the 9th grade Balanced Literacy program, leading BHSA to become designated as a site in Region 8 for modeling Balanced Literacy instruction across the curriculum
•    He has conducted workshops for the professional development of teachers as well as supervisors
•    He initiated a relationship with the NYU School of Education and now coordinates the placement and supervision of NYU student teachers at BHSA
"    He has published a bimonthly newsletter on writing informing students and staff of opportunities for entering writing contests
•    He has conducted over 100 observations of teachers in almost all subject areas
I could go on. Suffice it to say that Mr. Bressi has provided remarkable service to my young school, effectively contributing to BHSA's attainment of Adequate Yearly Progress under NCLB and the title of "School in Good Standing" with its first graduating class. Mr. Bressi has my admiration and respect, as well as the admiration and respect of his teachers. He is hard working. He is efficient. He is passionate about English and writing. He speaks and presents well. And he is dedicated.

V     Robert Finley, Principal
I am confident Mr. Bressi is the kind of extraordinary candidate you seek.   I recommend him highly and urge you to give him strong consideration for the position of Regional Instructional Specialist.

345 Dean Street, Brooklyn, NY 11217 * (718) 855-2412