Maria Ortiz has been with the Office of Recreation, Intramurals and Athletics for eight years as a night and weekend Supervisor of Recreation.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Maria is the oldest of three children. She grew up in East Flatbush where she attended Holy Cross Elementary School and Catherine McAuley High School. She participated in many extra-curricular activities and played volleyball and softball. Maria graduated with honors and received a scholarship to St. Joseph’s College in downtown Brooklyn. She was the first member of her family to attend college, receiving her Bachelor’s of Arts degree in education in 1992. In 1995, Maria received her Master’s of Arts degree in education from Brooklyn College.
She began her teaching career at Queen of All Saints Elementary School before moving onto her alma mater where she continues to teach health, music, and religion. She has also been the Student Activities Council moderator for the past 12 years. She has traveled to Spain, Scotland, and many other parts of the world with her students. She plans numerous activities and fund raising events, in conjunction with her students, to raise awareness for those who are less fortunate.
Maria also works one day a week in the after school program at Flatbush Catholic Academy. She has been preparing educational as well as recreational activities for the elementary students for the past 19 years. Maria is very active in her parish community. She has been a lector and a Sunday school teacher at Holy Cross Church for over 20 years.
Maria, who resides in Bay Ridge, holds a brown belt with two black stripes in Go Ju Ru Karate. She loves to travel, do needlepoint, watch movies, and spend time with family and friends.
