Leyte-Born Educator Honored as Teacher Ambassador and STEAM Champion in NYC
Jun 3
2 min read
From the small town of Jaro in Leyte to the bustling classrooms of Brooklyn, Dr. Reynaldo B. Garnace’s journey as an educator is a testament to dedication, resilience, and the deep roots of service.
Now serving as a Special Education Generalist at Brooklyn Community High School for Excellence and Equity, Dr. Garnace was recently recognized by the New York City Department of Education as a Teacher Ambassador of Academic Excellence for STEAM Education and a Champion Teacher and Leader—an honor conferred during the district’s prestigious Black Tie Affair, a ceremony that highlights the exemplary contributions of educators and students.
Born in Jaro, Leyte and fluent in Waray, Dr. Garnace spent his high school years in Isabel, a Cebuano-speaking town, before settling for a long time in Tacloban. He now resides in Palo, Leyte, where his wife works at the Philippine Science High School. Together, they have four children, all currently in college. Three of his daughters studied in the United States for a year but chose to return to the Philippines to complete their education—an experience that reflects the family’s strong connection to home and culture.
Despite the challenges of living and working abroad, Dr. Garnace finds balance in everyday joys—particularly through the company of Cubby, his puppy and loyal companion, whom he brings along almost everywhere he goes, except to work. He also actively participates in several organizations in the U.S., a personal initiative that keeps him engaged with the community and anchored in purpose.
His recent district-level recognition underscores not just his professional competence but his willingness to go the extra mile. The Champion Teacher title was awarded following a recommendation from his school principal, Ms. Jennyvi Fajardo, who commended his tireless dedication:
“He is the type of teacher who does not say NO to whatever request I ask him to do. He always performs his best in everything he is assigned to work on.”
Dr. Garnace was also given a Certificate of Recognition for Leadership and Dedication as a HE3AT (Health, Education, and the Arts through Advanced Technologies) Classroom Teacher, signed by Brooklyn North District Superintendent Michael Prayor.
“In my second year working with the New York City Department of Education, I did not expect to be recognized by my school and the district for the extra mile that I do,” said Dr. Garnace. “I am humbled and honored to be conferred as ambassador and champion teacher and leader.”
The Black Tie Affair is a yearly initiative by the NYC DOE to recognize top-performing educators and students who embody excellence, innovation, and leadership. Teachers are nominated by their principals and selected for their measurable impact in the classroom and beyond.
Dr. Garnace’s story—grounded in humble beginnings and propelled by a deep love for learning and service—continues to inspire both his students and the Filipino community. His journey reflects how one educator from Leyte can bridge two worlds, uplift lives, and proudly represent the Philippines on the global stage.
