Gina Sorbera was always the first person to arrive each morning at IS 24, Staten Island. She was at virtually every school function, be it a student performance or fair or fundraiser. That’s why, when the popular Spanish teacher died at age 50 following heart surgery in June 2014, the school community felt an incredible void. “Her work ethic was amazing,” said colleague Christine Carroll, who taught at the Great Kills school with Sorbera for 15 years. “She was incredibly dedicated to the students and to the school, and she was like that as a friend, as well. She was always there when needed.” Parents, staff and family members remembered Sorbera at a ceremony at the school on June 23, unveiling a plaque with her photo, establishing a scholarship in her name and dedicating a memorial in the school’s garden. Paraprofessional Pat DiMarco organized the event. Friends can donate to the scholarship in Sorbera’s honor.

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