The AATSP Metro New York is saddened to inform its members and friends of the passing of our Chapter’s President, Mr. Bernard A Lopez. Below is his obituary, written by his son.
Bernard A. Lopez
Aug 20, 1951 - July 14, 2024
With a heavy heart, I share the passing of my beloved father, Bernard Lopez, who left us on July 14, 2024. Born in 1951 and raised in the Bronx, Dad's life was a testament to dedication, love, and the profound impact one person can have on their community.
Dad's journey as an educator began with the inspiration he drew from his high school teachers. He devoted his life to teaching Spanish and Italian at Monsignor Farrell High School, McKee High School, and Taft High School. His passion for education extended beyond the classroom; in the evenings, he dedicated his time to helping first-generation adults in Staten Island earn their GEDs, offering them a chance for a brighter future.
His commitment to education and his community saw him rise through the ranks to become a school administrator, eventually overseeing over 150 schools in Queens as a district administrator. His leadership and vision were instrumental in shaping the educational landscape for countless students and teachers.
Dad's contributions to education were not confined to local schools. For over 15 years, he served as the president of the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (AATSP), championing the importance of language education and cultural understanding on a national level.
Despite his many professional accomplishments, Dad's greatest joy was his family.
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The family will receive friends from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 18, 2024, at John Vincent Scalia Home for Funerals, Inc., 28 Eltingville Blvd, Staten Island, New York.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 9:45 a.m. on Friday, July 19, 2024 at St. Clare Church located at 110 Nelson Ave Staten Island, New York 10308. Interment to follow at St. Gertrude's Cemetery in Colonia,New Jersey.