Special Programs / Director of Special Programs

Lia Tinkelman Festenstein

Director of Special Programs

Lia Tinkelman Festenstein is the Director of Special Programs for East. Ms. Festenstein is a graduate of Hope College where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. After two years spent teaching English with the Peace Corps, Ms. Festenstein pursued a Master’s degree in Education with a focus on English Language Learners, at the University of Rochester. She then went on to teach in the Rochester City School District in a variety of positions including ESOL Teacher, ELA Specialist, District ELL Coach and founding member of the Rochester International Academy. Following graduation from SUNY Brockport’s Certificate in Advanced Studies program, she went on to manage the Teacher Incentive Fund for the RCSD. Ms. Festenstein is currently in the doctoral program at the University of Rochester and enjoys spending time with her husband and three children. She brings enthusiasm and commitment to equity and access for ALL students. She looks forward to bringing the best out of each and every student.

The Rochester City School District does not discriminate on the basis of an individual's actual or perceived race, color, religion, creed, ethnicity, national origin, citizenship status, age, marital status, partnership status, disability, predisposing genetic characteristics, sexual orientation, gender (sex), military status, veteran status, domestic violence victim status or political affiliation, and additionally does not discriminate against students on the basis of weight, gender identity, gender expression, and religious practices or any other basis prohibited by New York State and/or federal non-discrimination laws in employment or its programs and activities. The District provides equal access to community and youth organizations.