A Falcon’s Journey highlights alumni who have returned to serve the district where they once learned, giving back to the community that shaped them. This profile features Dawn Weiss, a Greenburgh Central graduate and longtime art teacher at Lee F. Jackson and Highview Elementary Schools, whose creativity and care continue to inspire young learners across the district.
At Lee F. Jackson and Highview Elementary Schools, art teacher Dawn Weiss has spent more than three decades helping students discover their creative voice. A proud Woodlands graduate, Dawn always knew she wanted to teach—and she knew she wanted to do it in Greenburgh.
Her connection to the district runs deep. Growing up in the Greenburgh schools, Dawn experienced the power of teachers who recognized her individuality and encouraged her creativity. “They saw me as a whole person, beyond the academics,” she recalled. That sense of being known and valued shaped her approach to teaching and her belief that learning thrives in a caring, connected community.
After earning her bachelor’s degree in education from Pace University, Dawn returned home to begin her teaching career in 1993. For her, there was never a question of teaching anywhere else. “Greenburgh was where I felt supported and inspired,” she said. “It’s where I wanted to give that same feeling back to students.”
She later earned her Master of Arts in Art Education (K–12), combining her love of creativity with her passion for helping students express themselves. Working with young learners at the start of their educational journeys, Dawn nurtures curiosity, confidence, and joy—values that she sees reflected throughout the district. “Greenburgh celebrates the arts and values every child’s unique voice,” she said. “That’s what makes this such a special place to teach.”
Her classroom philosophy centers on encouragement and resilience. “My goal is to create a space where students feel safe, seen, and heard,” she said. Her motto—make it a happy mistake and turn it into something new—captures both her teaching style and her belief in learning through creativity.
After more than 30 years, Dawn continues to be inspired by the same sense of belonging that drew her back as a young teacher. The relationships she’s built—with students, colleagues, and families—have made her career deeply fulfilling. “This community shaped who I am,” she said. “Being able to give back through teaching feels like everything has come full circle.”