To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Beverly Hershkowitz
December 19, 2024
Many blessings to the family during this holiday season
Jerrilee Fischer-Garza
March 5, 2024
Tony´s passion for learning was transformational. He inspired me to become a better teacher in order to become a more responsive leader. Through his contributions to public education, he truly left the world a better place.
Martin Munitz
February 25, 2024
I was a teacher at P.S. 155 when Tony and a small entourage unexpectedly visited my classroom and observed an ongoing lesson. After that period, my kids had gym, which freed me up to chat with Tony, who decided not to leave. He was interested in what I had created and queried how we could interest more teachers to adopt these reading and math learning tools. My answer was quite simple. MONEY. He urged me to write a grant proposal, but this was not my forte; another teacher, Jeff Hansen, did.
Fast forward to the next school year. We received grant money and implemented the open-style individualized math and reading high-intensity programs. We started small, including only fifth and sixth graders. We extended the program to include seventh- and eighth-grade classes in the following two years, and in doing so, we created a mini-school, the second such alternative mini-school in District 4.
Tony was my hero, inspiration, supporter, and my mentor. I loved him, as did everyone else who had ever worked for him.
I wept upon first learning of his death. He genuinely cared about our kids and did his utmost to inspire others to feel the same. Although he will be missed, his legacy lives, and we should be grateful to have had him as our leader.
Karen Mooney
February 21, 2024
Tony was a true inspiration. He shaped the administrator I became due to his expertise, guidance, and incredible knowledge of teaching and learning. Tony always put student needs first above all else. He not only "talked the talk" but he lived and breathed his beliefs in everything he did. Tony touched the life´s of thousands. He will be missed.
Jean Madden-Cazares
February 20, 2024
In loving memory of Tony Alvarado, a true visionary whose dedication transformed public education in San Diego. His passion and innovation have left an indelible mark on countless lives, inspiring generations to strive for excellence. Rest in peace, Tony, your legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of all those you've touched. I will be forever grateful to have started my time as a principal under your leadership, it truly changed my life.
Debbie Beldock
February 20, 2024
Tony changed my life as an educator and improved the education for so many children in San Diego. He brought a leadership voice about equity and social justice and designed a system of schools that ensured each and every student had the opportunity to learn at high levels. For that, I will never be able to thank him enough.
I was fortunate to remain friends with Tony after he retired and he lived life fully. You could count on his contagious smile, thoughtful discussions, and incredible intellect regarding any topic.
As a result of Tony´s leadership, I became a better educational leader and as a result of his friendship, I believe I became a better person. He was an inspiration and had an everlasting impact on my life. The world will greatly miss Tony, but the world is a much better place because of Tony Alvarado.
Katherine Casey Spengler
February 5, 2024
Katherine Casey Spengler
February 5, 2024
Katherine Casey Spengler
February 5, 2024
Katherine Casey Spengler
February 5, 2024
Katherine Casey Spengler
February 5, 2024
My heart shattered in a million pieces when I realized the world is without the brilliance of Tony Alvarado. My heart breaks for Elaine, Tony´s beloved wife and soulmate. Their relationship is a love story for the ages, and Tony and Elaine´s respect and passion for each other radiated brightly in their intellectually engaging conversations, their shared love of travel and food, and how they lived life to the fullest. Not surprisingly, neither wanted to be without the other, a feeling captured by the Winnie the Pooh quote hanging in their home: "If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you." I´m so sorry Elaine is without her Tony. My heart breaks for our daughter, who had the privilege of knowing and loving Tony. From the day Anna learned to talk, she and Tony spent time together engaged in conversation, and Joel and I loved watching their relationship grow. And my heart breaks because striving to be the educator Tony believed I could be has profoundly shaped my career. I had the enormous fortune of beginning my teaching career in District 2 under Tony and Elaine´s leadership and moved to San Diego to continue to learn from and with them. I felt like I won the lottery when our relationship shifted from mentor-mentee to friends and was deeply honored when Tony agreed to write my book´s foreword. Tony´s belief in the centrality of professional learning to the achievement of educational excellence in teaching will continue to guide me in my work. I am the teacher I am because of Tony. I miss him terribly.
Beverly Hershkowitz
January 31, 2024
So sorry to hear about the loss of Tony Aivarado. May he Rest In Peace. He will be missed.
Fred Kaeser
January 31, 2024
Hey Tony...You saw, perhaps more than any other educational leader in the NYC schools, the important role social, emotional, and health related education is in the lives of young people. You knew that it wasn't enough just to educate the mind...you had to educate the heart as well if you were to be a truly successful educator. You allowed and encouraged some of the most innovative child guidance & counselling programs, health & sex education programs, and a myriad of other "affective" based instructional offerings for children & their parents that have ever been developed. Man...what a pleasure it was!! You are the best!
Dee lamhut
January 21, 2024
Tony was ONE IN A MILLION!
It was an honor and a pleasure to have worked with him in District 4. He was always available for new ideas from anyone. He implemented programs that became models around the country.
He was a brilliant, kind, and generous man.
I was so lucky, through my dearest friend Elaine, to become part of their unbelievable relationship.
Their love was an inspiration to everyone.
I cherish my memories of Tony.
Every memory I have was of him smiling!
He will be missed by everyone who knew him.
Love always, Dee
Richard Spiegel & Barbara Fisher
January 18, 2024
Tony was an educator who inspired. Barbara and I were fortunate, in our work with alternative high schools and special ed students, to know he supported our efforts to bring poetry and peer writing to New York City students.
Rosa Casiello O´Day
January 14, 2024
I had the privilege of being appointed Principal by Anthony Alvarado, one of the greatest and most inspirational leaders with whom I have had the pleasure and honor of working, and by the community who believed in him and trusted his choices. And I joined the winning team and family he so carefully assembled.
Tony was a great mind and an impassioned and innovative educator who put his heart and soul into bringing teaching and learning to new heights. He was indeed a visionary, and he was an inimitable communicator who fostered collaborations and the exchange of ideas.
Tony recognized and valued the individual assets of all of us who worked with him. He made us feel like we were essential contributors toward a collective vision who were on a unique and crucial mission. And he ensured that we had the support needed to be successful.
Tony was humane and compassionate. We were all recipients of his understanding. I fondly recall his care and encouragement when meeting the demands of the job during my pregnancy and early phase of motherhood.
Tony´s intellect, humanity, wit, sincerity and infectious excitement for living life to the fullest will be greatly missed. All would have cherished more time with Tony. But his legacy lives on well beyond his time on earth. May this thought and fond memories offer comfort to those who must now endure this tremendous loss, especially Elaine, his beloved wife, partner, friend and soulmate; his loving family and dear friends. My heartfelt condolences to you all.
Tony, you made this a better world for all who had the good fortune of having you in their lives. Rest in peace, dear Tony.
Janet Mittler
January 13, 2024
Dear Elaine,
So sorry to hear about the passing of your beloved Tony.
He was a legend in every way and will always be remembered.
Thinking of all the wonderful memories we had at P.S.6 and beyond. I remember each and every one like it was yesterday.
Hopefully all the beautiful memories you have of Tony will help you through this very difficult time.
Our heartfelt condolences, Janet and Mark Mittler
Joan Goldberg
January 12, 2024
Tony was an inspiring educational leader. I enjoyed the time we spent on the screening committee for the principal of P.S.6, Man. With his guidance, our committee selected the amazing and dynamic Elaine Fink.
Bari Shapiro
January 12, 2024
From the moment Aunt "E" brought you into our lives so many years ago, I knew how special you were. The way you looked, listened and shared in each conversation you had. From your love for fine food, insight on politics, knowledge of sports, passion for education, to your fervor for books you seemed to always be a true expert on the topic at hand. Whether the exchange was with Dylan, Sage, Mike, or myself it was something that made each of us feel special and important.
My family has so many fond memories of our times together in California, out in NYC, or even in your apartment´s playroom. Being with you and Aunt "E" together meant so much to us. Mike and I always were enamored with the beautiful relationship you shared with my aunt. It has always served as a model and barometer for our own marriage. Often, you could be spotted in your signature "Life is Good" t-shirts. I never met anyone that truly personified this phrase like you did. You could find joy and love in most anything. You absolutely lived your life to the fullest. For this one time, in your honor and memory, I will say LGM and J-E-T-S.
Love always Mia
January 12, 2024
Oh Grandad you were such a good man. My memories of going out to eat and ordering so much food. Your love for books always got me excited. I´ll never forget you reading "The Hungry Caterpillar" to me while using different voices to animate the story. Your constant support as I started playing softball will never be forgotten. You cheered me on all the way from San Diego. As I graduate high school this year, I thank you for always pushing me. A whole year early and I celebrate you. Memories will always include the constant rubbing of my back while even though you didn´t realize you were soothing all the pain I felt. There aren´t enough words to express how much I will miss you. May you rest in eternal peace and always look down on me. I love you now and forever.
Love Jason Jason Anthony Jr
January 12, 2024
Grandad, there are so many memories and this picture is one that I will always treasure. You were such an inspiration to me and many. Your kindness, love and humbleness has resonated with me and made me the man I am today. You were an awesome grandfather. You pushed me hard and supported all my dreams and goals. As a father today, I have learned so much more and strive to be the a good Dad. Jason Jr will carry on the "Alvarado" name and make you just as proud. I will love you forever.
Suzanne L. Karp
January 11, 2024
I sadly heard about the passing of Anthony Alvarado today, 1/11/24. I was a teacher in District 2 so I know how inspirational he was to our teachers, as well as, how much he cared about all the children. He was an innovative educator and warm humanitarian. The results of his ideas were evident throughout the schools in our district and under the leadership of my principal, Elaine Fink.
To say that Anthony, "Tony", Alvarado will be missed by so many is an understatement. He lit up Elaine´s life and those of his relatives, friends and school family. We will each remember him in our own personal way.
My heart goes out to you, Elaine. I miss you and hold dear the memories we share.
Suzanne L. Karp
(Joel sends his deepest condolences.)
Willy Surbrook
January 10, 2024
My deepest condolences to the family of Anthony Alvarado. I worked with Tony at San Diego Unified and definitely had an impact to the work I was doing there
Anne Mackinnon
January 10, 2024
Tony was a wonderful friend, with such a lively mind and a wicked sense of humor. He did so much for education in New York! His impact was beyond measure. Tony showed us that schools can change, that we can do better for children.
Hindy List
January 10, 2024
A brilliant and inspiring educator
A fellow Mets fan
A wonderful friend
You and Elaine shared a love and a partnership unlike any I have ever seen.
You will be remembered by all of us who´s lives you´ve touched.
I love you Tony
Rest in peace
Hindy
Tiffany Blanco
January 10, 2024
Grandad,
It´s hard to find the words, as you were many of the greatest things in this world; intelligent, passionate, kindhearted, curious, determined, and much more. As one of your granddaughters, I´m happy to share so many memories with you whether it was ordering basically the entire menu every time we ate just so we can try new things or discovering a new book. You were always there and cheering for Mariah and I´s new experiences like snorkeling and surfing. You and Grandma supported me throughout life and I could never express how thankful I am. I hope you´re proud when I cross the stage in May with my Master´s degree, which couldn´t have been possible without you both. You were filled with endless wisdom and so eager to share it with everyone you came across. I knew when I talked to you, I´d always learn something new. I admired everything that you were and hope to live up to it. I am proud to be one of your granddaughters and will continue to be proud. You´ve shown me strength and resilience. You´ve influenced my passion for reading and learning, which I will continue to carry on. You always had the biggest smile and touched the lives of many others. I´m so happy to know who you were and how much love you had to share with the world. Thank you for inspiring me.
I love you always.
Your Gemini twin,
Tiffany
Robert Wilson
January 9, 2024
Elaine - My deepest sympathy and warmest thoughts in this difficult time. May your cherished memories with Tony be comforting to you.
Tony - You were a great inspiration, it was my greatest pleasure to have managed the Business Office during your time in District 2. Rest in peace!
Bob Wilson
Mamie L. Johnson
January 9, 2024
Dear Elaine and family.
My deepest condolences in the loss of your beloved. Do embrace all the magnificent memories. Tony left education so much better than he found it. So Tony rest in eternal peace. Job well done. Mamie L. Johnson
Doris Theiler
January 9, 2024
Tony was truly UNIQUE...only his wonderful acceptance of people could make him a loving friend. To me and the fabulous educator he was. Elaine. had many wonderful years with him and he with her. Doris
Dr Peter Alan Chester
January 8, 2024
An icon of immeasurable proportions; a true giant in the profession and an inspiration to
countless colleagues.
Dr Peter Alan Chester
Julie Bennett, Kaye Lawson and Lyn Reggett
January 8, 2024
We were privileged to work in Community School District 2 under Tony's inspirational leadership. He changed our lives both personally and professionally and we have carried his vision with us in our work in schools, both nationally and internationally. It was an honour to know you Tony.
Barbara Gambino
January 8, 2024
Dear Elaine,
Tony was an inspirational leader who along with you, changed how Principals led their schools, how teachers taught and how children learned. I will forever be grateful to have been chosen by him to be a Principal.
Please accept my sincere condolences on his loss.
Barbara Gambino
Bea n Lou Johnstone
January 8, 2024
It was a privilege and honor to have worked with Tony Alvarado, a brilliant educator. Tony truly believed that all children can succeed if given the opportunity to be taught by teachers who were learners themselves, in schools led by Instructional Leader's who also continued to learn. This philosophy permeated he environment of D. 2 under Tony´s leadership and partnership with Elaine. I was so fortunate to be a part of his visionary team, an experience I will always value n treasure. My heart aches for Elaine and Tony´s family but I know Tony´s memory will live on thru them and in the hearts of those fortunate enough to know him.
Mariah Blanco
January 8, 2024
Grandad, the man that inspired me to never give up, go for what I love, and to not be afraid to get out of my comfort zone. From me visiting you and Grandma in California, you would help me with my summer assignments & readings, you bringing me and Tiffany to all of the sports classes we took, and we can´t forget you singing "happy birthday," with Grandma every year. The memories I will never forget. Your eyes would light up whenever I talked about traveling somewhere or when I tried some new food. You also showed me what true love is by showing the love you have for Grandma and I will never settle for less. Thank you for your support, guidance, and unconditional love. I know you´re up in heaven with that big smile of yours that no one can forget. Seeing how big of an impact you made on so many people makes me so proud. I´m so glad to be called your granddaughter and I will continue to make you proud. Now you can rest peacefully; until we meet again. I love you always and forever
Mariah xoxo
Mariah Blanco
January 8, 2024
Grandad, the man that inspired me to never give up, go for what I love, and to not be afraid to get out of my comfort zone. From me visiting you and Grandma in California, you would help me with my summer assignments & readings, you bringing me and Tiffany to all of the sports classes we took, and we can´t forget you singing "happy birthday," with Grandma every year. The memories I will never forget. Your eyes would light up whenever I talked about traveling somewhere or when I tried some new food. You also showed me what true love is by showing the love you have for Grandma and I will never settle for less. Thank you for your support, guidance, and unconditional love. I know you´re up in heaven with that big smile of yours that no one can forget. Seeing how big of an impact you made on so many people makes me so proud. I´m so glad to be called your granddaughter and I will continue to make you proud. Now you can rest peacefully; until we meet again. I love you always and forever!
Mariah xoxo
Heather Ridge
January 8, 2024
As educators, we were so privileged to have had the unique opportunity to work with a leader like Tony - someone with vision and courage and the capacity to effect change across entire systems. His impact on those of us who were fortunate to have worked with him has been lasting. Our family was saddened to learn of his passing. Deepest sympathy to Elaine and sincere condolences to Rachael and Emily.
Robert Heisler
January 7, 2024
My sons went to Manhattan East in District 2 in the late 80s and early 90s. Anthony Alvarado was legend even then. Sad to hear of his passing.
Joan Fink
January 7, 2024
Tony and I were so lucky to marry into the Fink family. From day one, Elaine was my sister and Tony was my brother. You both were a gift to the children of Manhattan and San Diego. Your influence cast a net nationally and internationally for educators to learn from you .You were the most loving husband. In every phase of life, Tony was the crème de la crème.
Kathy Rehfield-Pelles
January 7, 2024
I feel so lucky to have worked for him! A brilliant and legendary educator. A true visionary. His work and his memory live on in so many educators and in so many schools.
Condolences and love to Elaine and the Alvarado family.
Kathy Rehfield-Pelles
Deeba and Doug
January 7, 2024
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Elaine and the Alvarado family. Tony was an inspirational leader and role model. How fortunate we were to work for and learn from such an amazing man.
Saudhi Vargas
January 7, 2024
My deepest condolences to Elaine and the Alvarado family. Tony's extraordinary vision, leadership and kindness touched so many people and greatly impacted my professional life. Tony will be remembered for his significant contributions to the field of education and, more importantly, for the wonderful person he was!
Linda Trifon
January 7, 2024
How sad to have lost such a visionary and educational giant at this time. Tony inspired us all to forge ahead and do what´s best for children no matter how difficult the task. He and Elaine were a brilliant team who believed that the professional development of school leaders and teachers was the job. They were always there to guide and support us as we navigated through educational challenges. Elaine, my deepest and sincere condolences for the loss of your soulmate. Your love for one another was special. May all your memories give you strength during this difficult time. Rest in peace Tony.
Linda Trifon
Diane Snowball
January 7, 2024
Tony was inspirational and positively affected the lives of millions of children because of his brilliant leadership of principals and teachers. He changed our lives by inviting us to provide professional learning for NY City schools and bring other Australian consultants to join in our work. Tony and Elaine were a wonderful team and we send our sincere condolences to Elaine at this very sad time. We will always remember the great years we had supporting Tony and Elaine in District 2.
Diane and Greg Snowball
Staci Monreal
January 7, 2024
My sincere condolences for your loss. The field of education has lost a remarkable leader. His work shaped my vision for school transformation and school leadership. I loved working with him and was inspired by his views on teaching, learning, and leadership. I will forever be grateful to him. My thoughts and prayers go out to Elaine and the Alvarado family.
Gloria
January 6, 2024
Dad
Thank you for all the Books, Parks, Rye Playland, Bubblegum Ice-cream, Music, Singing, Dancing, Long Talks, Patience, Wisdom & Knowledge. You never judged (especially me)...You just found the good in everything & everyone. It was an honor and a privilege to be your daughter. Forever in My Heart. I love you Gloria
Bill Fink
January 6, 2024
Tony was a true joy to be around. His infectious smile and love of life will truly be missed. Tony always found joy in everything he did-from eating a slice of pizza to attending a Met game. His love for my sister and her for him will forever live on.
He will always be in our hearts and will be greatly missed.
Leslie Zackman
January 6, 2024
Tony and Elaine had a profound impact on my professional and personal life - as professional models, encouragers, thinkers, visionaries and as amazing friends. My life is enhanced for knowing both of them.
Darcy and Alan
January 6, 2024
Dear Elaine,
Our sincere condolences for your loss. May the wonderful memories you and Tony created be a comfort for you at this difficult time. With deepest sympathies and love,
Darcy and Alan
Joyce Duncan
January 6, 2024
My deepest condolences to the family of Anthony Alvarado. A tremendous innovator and educator,
Love Always, Maria
January 6, 2024
Oh Dad...May you rest in eternal peace. You were an AMAZING human being in every way and I have the honor of calling you Dad. I love you forever plus a day.
Laura Benjamin
January 6, 2024
Tony´s soul will live on in the hearts and minds of those he loved and touched. My heartfelt condolences to Elaine, who travelled an incredible journey with him.
Galen Guberman
January 6, 2024
I was a Principal in District 2 under the supervision of "Tony" and Elaine Fink. Tony was a true visionary who inspired us all. He was a mesmerizing presence at our Principal conferences and a dynamic leader. Sincere condolences to his family. He was truly one of a kind.
Mariano Guzman
January 6, 2024
Rest in light, my mentor...my friend.
Maria Guasp
January 6, 2024
His vision and passion was greatly admired. To this day, his work is seen in classrooms where his vision of professional development continues to benefit teacher and student performance. He will be remembered and missed.
Maria Guasp
Linda Polsky
January 5, 2024
So sorry to his family for their loss. He lived on my block and was a nice guy.
David Bloomfield
January 5, 2024
Tony was one of a kind, a great and generous educator who found and fanned the flames of other great educators, benefiting thousands of students and leaving a legacy of instructional and systemic innovation.
Jacqueline Ancess
January 5, 2024
Tony's passing is a deeply sad moment for all of us who imagined something else as possible for the education of New York City's children. He had the courage to create the conditions that would enable our visions to take life and succeed. Rest in peace! Jackie Ancess
Evelyn Castro
January 5, 2024
My deepest condolences to the family. Tony was an amazing educator and visionary. His impact on shaping the lives of children and educators will be a lasting legacy.
Carmen Farina
January 5, 2024
An educator´s educator. He inspired and led by example.
It was always a point of pride to say that you worked for him.
He believed in the power of good teachers and invested heavily in professional development.
Elaine Fink was a good partner professionally and personally
Carmen Farina (former principal under Tony)
David Goldwasser
January 5, 2024
Every tear is a tribute..especially to Tony. He was a very special friend to children and his mind always embraced change..
Anna Marie Carrillo
January 5, 2024
Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.
David Sherman and Roberto Benitez
January 5, 2024
Beyond being a visionary to so many, Tony was our beloved friend. Walking the streets of little towns in Tuscany and Umbria, or just hanging in New York or San Diego, all our time together was a joy and a blessing. and now so much of him lives on in Elaine, his deeply beloved wife, his children and grandchilden, both of us, and everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.
The world is a sadder place for losing the likes of him. He was a prince who loved life and lived it to the fullest. Our memories with Tony are a treasure.
David and Roberto
Marsha and Ernesto
January 5, 2024
A beautiful tribute to a brilliant man.
Camille Aromando
January 5, 2024
Heartfelt sympathy with you in your time of loss. Find comfort in the many lives he touched and the thoughtfulness he brought to education.
Cynthia Springall
January 5, 2024
My heartfelt sympathy to Tony´s family. Your fond memories of him will keep him alive in your hearts forever.
Lois Weiswasser
January 5, 2024
You were truly an Inspirational Leader and
chamged
the life
of
so any children and educators!It was a honor to work and learn from you and Elaine and
to see
your special love for one another!
Marjorie Robbins
January 5, 2024
To work with Tony was a joy...an exciting adventure in which we were challenged to keep learning and to impart that knowledge to others.
To have Tony as a friend was to know, not just a brilliant man, but a caring, interesting and most importantly...a wonderful guy! We will miss him always. Sending sincere condolences to his love, Elaine, and the Alvarado family.
Love
Marjorie and Butch
Barbara Boriotti
January 5, 2024
Anthony Alvarado was an educator who truly cared about children. He nurtured them by creating an educational environment that helped them grow into responsible, socially conscious individuals. He was a visionary leader who saw the importance of educating the "whole child" through the world of books. Thank you for your contributions to our children.
Ellen Manobla and John Kurtz
January 5, 2024
We will always remember our dinners together filled with laughter, good conversation and cherished reminiscences.
Elaine Fink
January 5, 2024
"Ours was a love story for the ages"
Rest in peace my love
Forever and ever
Elaine
Elaine Fink
January 5, 2024
Ours was a love story for the ages.
Rest in peace my love
" forever and ever"
Elaine
elliott koreman
January 5, 2024
Tony was a visionary leader who always placed children first. Working with him wasinspiring!
Steve Stoll
January 5, 2024
Tony was a shining star in our firmament.
Karen Klein
January 5, 2024
Dear Elaine-
My deepest condolences to you.I know you´ve been a valiant caretaker these last months & how difficult it was.
Tony is finally at peace. He will be missed.
Kay Casey
January 5, 2024
How thankful I am to have met Tony and his beloved Elaine.
Kay Casey
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