By ANNIE ZHOU
Newly hired science lab assistant Ms. Irina Paster was born in Russia and graduated from a technical university there. Before she came to Jericho, Ms. Paster worked for National Grid for 25 years as a chemist where she analyzed gas quality and leaks.
After Ms. Paster retired from the National Grid, she decided to continue working in science. When she saw Jericho was hiring a new aid for the science department, she sent in her resume due to her extensive chemical background. Ms. Paster said, “When I came to this school, I was impressed by how nice it is here and how children are involved in the process of studying. It’s very different than other schools.”
Ms. Paster keeps all the lab equipment organized, and always stresses the importance of safety.
Curriculum Associate for Science and Technology Education Ms. Libertini described Ms. Paster as someone who will gladly help the science department. She said, “Ms. Paster is thrilled to be here. She is eager to make connections here with staff. She is happy to be in a school environment.”
Ms. Paster has 2 children and 3 grandchildren, and they all like to cook together. She also enjoys gardening and her cat Misha.