P.S. 115 The Daniel Mucatel School

Administration

Administration

Jonathan Lee,
Mr. Lee
Principal

Mr. Lee

I have had the immense honor of serving as an educator in the New York City Public Schools for close to 25 years, a journey that has been nothing short of a blessing. To make a difference in the lives of children, to witness their growth, resilience, and brilliance unfold. This has been my life’s greatest privilege, filled with pride and humility.

For most of my career, I proudly served at P.S./M.S. 57 James Weldon Johnson Leadership Academy, wearing many hats: Academic Intervention Services provider in Mathematics, Math Coach, and Assistant Principal. My desire to keep learning and growing led me to new roles; first as an Instructional Lead at the Field Support level in 2016, then as a District Leader and Director of School Renewal in District 18 in 2017. In 2018, I was humbled and deeply honored to be selected to become the Principal of P.S. 115.

The path that led me here was not a straight one. After serving four years of active duty in the U.S. Marine Corps, I earned my bachelor’s in business management and marketing and worked in management while pursuing my MBA. But something was missing in my heart. At just 23, I faced a moment of deep reflection, a midlife crisis, some might say, that shook me into profound clarity. I didn’t want just a job. I wanted purpose. Becoming an educator was that turning point, grounded in my love for children and a desire to serve families and the larger community; it remains the best decision I have ever made.

Over the years, I have had the joy of working with both elementary and middle school students. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing children fall in love with learning, discover who they are, and grow into the leaders of tomorrow. P.S. 115 has become an Oasis in Canarsie. I have witnessed love, care, and excellence in action every single day. Together, we have built something special, even amidst the trials of a global pandemic. We continue to teach with fervor, knowing the importance of our actions has the immense power to change our children’s lives.

I am in awe of what we have accomplished as a community together. And I am filled with excitement and hope for what’s still ahead. Thank you for your trust. Thank you for your partnership. As the saying goes, “It takes a village to raise a child.” I am so proud to be part of this village, our village.

Ms. Rush
Assistant Principal

Ms. Rush

It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I serve as Assistant Principal at P.S. 115, a school community that truly lives by our RISE values—Resilience, Individuality, Sensitivity, and Empowerment. Every day, I have the privilege of working alongside dedicated educators and families who share a common goal: ensuring that each child feels seen, supported, and inspired to achieve success academically, socially, and emotionally.

I received my Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Childhood Education from the University of Scranton and my Master’s degree in Special Education from Manhattanville College. Special Education is my passion because my philosophy is grounded in the belief that every student deserves equitable opportunities to learn and thrive. I believe in getting to know each student as an individual—to understand their strengths, interests, and learning styles—so we can create environments that foster confidence and bridge academic gaps.

At P.S. 115, we work together to ensure that every student has a caring adult who champions their growth and success. Our staff’s unwavering commitment to inclusion and excellence helps our students develop resilience, embrace their individuality, and feel empowered to reach new heights.

I am proud to be part of a community that celebrates both achievement and empathy, where learning extends beyond the classroom and into every interaction. I look forward to continuing our partnership as we nurture confident, compassionate learners who are ready to make a positive impact in the world.

Mrs. Trapp.
Mrs. Trapp
Assistant Principal

Mrs. Trapp

I serve as one of the two Assistant Principals here at P.S. 115. I am honored to work alongside the dedicated and motivated educators and staff here and to be of service to the P.S. 115 community. My educational philosophy centers on the belief that every child has the ability to learn. I enjoy the challenge of developing critical thinkers who are passionate about learning. I truly believe that we grow in community. When guardians and educators work together, a child has a team of adults who are committed in bringing out their best. Thus, we must support each other in ways that keep this goal in mind.

My parents migrated from Guyana, South America to provide my brothers and me with more opportunities. They taught us the importance of education and hard work. Education, they said, opened closed doors. These ideas catapulted me into the field of education and inspired me to obtain master's degrees in Special Education and Educational Leadership.

I am a product of the NYC public school system. I believe in our system’s ability to provide quality, free education. Through collaboration and inter-dependency, we will educate our children and provide them with a solid foundation that cannot be taken away.