John Bligh
- Retired teacher
“Children took to” Laura Heifferman because she “was a great teacher with a great personality,” said her colleague and longtime friend, JoAnn Chokos. “She was warm, friendly and likable,” and had “leadership qualities” that appealed to both children and adults, Chokos said.
Laura, who retired in 1996 after 34 years as an educator, died on Sept. 14, 2022, at age 81, of complications from pneumonia.
Laura started teaching 4th grade at PS 100 in Harlem in 1962. Chokos joined her there the following year and both later taught at PS 86 in the Bronx.
“She loved teaching all subjects,” Chokos said.
After becoming certified as an administrator, Laura worked at the city Department of Education’s District 10 office, but she remained and retired as a UFT member.
“She was a people person,” Chokos said. “She enjoyed teaching and being an acting administrator and was able to help younger, newer teachers — that was her forte, working with people.”
Laura was born in New York City and graduated from the Bronx HS of Science. She received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Hunter College of the City University of New York and earned a certification in administration from Pace University.
She loved to knit, crochet and do needlepoint.
Laura is survived by her sister, Sybil, and many nieces and nephews.
Ms. Heifferman was my 5th Grade Teacher at PS 86 in the Bronx. She was my favorite teacher and I have fond memories of her. She was a very kind person and knowledgeable and clearly loved and was loved by her students. Ill miss you Ms. Heifferman.