Jeffery Ortega

10th grade Social Studies

Jeffrey was born in Plainfield, New Jersey, as the youngest of six siblings and the only one born in the United States. Before starting fifth grade, he moved to the Dominican Republic, where he competed internationally in basketball, playing in Cuba and Puerto Rico. After returning to the Garden State to finish high school, Jeffrey embarked on a career in the United States Air Force. During his six and a half years of service, he lived in Aviano, Italy, San Antonio, Texas, and Great Falls, Montana.

Jeffrey earned his A.S. degree in Social Sciences and Humanities from LaGuardia Community College and his B.Sc.Ed from St. John’s University. He spent three years substituting in public schools throughout Brooklyn and Queens and taught Leadership classes for the New York Edge afterschool program. Additionally, Jeffrey coached middle school students in sports like volleyball and basketball.

A passionate traveler, Jeffrey often spends his summers abroad. He’s also a dedicated basketball enthusiast and has been a loyal Nets fan since the late ’90s.

You can reach Jeffrey at: jeffrey@lyonscommunityschool.org