Our Team : College Achieve Paterson

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Dr. Gemar Mills Executive Director Mr. Henry D. McNair Principal / Head of School Ms. Sharon Cook Director of Operations

Dr. Gemar Mills Executive Director

Gemar Mills, Executive Director Dr. Mills, born and raised in Paterson, New Jersey, always possessed a fervent affection for providing urban youth with an alternative perspective on life. As a high school student, he quickly acknowledged the significance of becoming an educated African-American male in his community. He sought empowerment through education, discovering its significance to personal and societal development.

After earning a B.S. degree in Math Education from Montclair State University, Dr. Mills began teaching math at East Side High School in Newark, New Jersey. While working full-time, he earned a Master’s of Educational Leadership at American Intercontinental University and later a doctoral degree in administration, policy, and curriculum from Seton Hall University. Later, at Malcolm X Shabazz High School in Newark, Dr. Mills served for two years as Math Department Chairperson and one year as Vice-Principal. At the age of 27, Dr. Mills was made Principal of this school, one of the most troubled in the Newark Public Schools District. With a history of low-test scores, MXS was threatened with the possibility of closure. Dr. Mills formulated a strategy of education reform, using his strengths as an accessible and relatable leader to recreate a safe school atmosphere where students and staff believed again in themselves, their school, and in education. Under his leadership, test scores drastically improved. School pride and a sports culture were also restored. The school’s turnaround has been featured in the Sports Illustrated award-winning series “Underdogs,” NBC’s “Positively Black,” an Emmy award-winning documentary “Saving Shabazz” produced by NJ.com, and articles by The Atlantic, Fortune, and Crain business magazine.

Dr. Mills not only serves as Executive Director of CAPS Paterson but also leads Academics across the CAPS network.

Mr. Henry D. McNair Principal / Head of School

Henry McNair, Principal Born in Newark, New Jersey, and educated in the Irvington Public Schools system, Mr. McNair styled himself a scholar and an activist from an early age, vowing to make an impact upon people of communities like his own. After co-founding the Positive Youth Today program in 1988, he earned a Bachelor’s of Arts in Social Science from Stockton University in Pomona, New Jersey in 1995, and a Master’s of Arts in Education from Saint Peter’s University a few years later.

An early position in juvenile justice teaching gave Mr. McNair unique insight into how one enthusiastic person can make a dramatic impact upon the lives of young people. After six years of teaching and mentoring, Mr. McNair was promoted to his first administrative position. Over the course of the next six years, he grew as a teacher-coach, peer observer, and capacity builder. In 2008, his role expanded to include professional development, discipline, and student activities. Seeing how societal factors directly impact student achievement, he increasingly called on service providers, social agencies, local clergy, and non-profit organizations to invest time, energy, and resources in the students of his school.

Mr. McNair believes that leaders should not be judged by their personal successes, but by the successes of those they impact. His career is full of examples. In one notable case, a small grade 7-12 magnet school that Mr. McNair led a decade ago rose to 49th in the state in a ranking by New Jersey Patch in 2012; this success was the culmination of a school culture transformation to one of high expectations and critical thinking and the hard work of the students and staff. In later leadership roles at alternative schools and charter organizations, Mr. McNair uas continued to assure that under-served student populations benefit from community collaboration, increased social awareness, and inspiring leaders, and he brings acumen in these areas and others in his current role as Principal for all grades at CAPS Paterson.

Ms. Sharon Cook Director of Operations

Ms. Sharon Cook, Director of Operations at CAPS Paterson Since a young age, Ms. Cook has possessed a love for education. She long aspired to play a vital role in the successful operation of an educational institution and now leads operations at CAPS Paterson.

Ms. Cook earned her Bachelor’s Degree from William Paterson College and her Master’s Degree from Montclair State University. She began her career in education in 2001 as a Substance Awareness Coordinator for elementary students within Newark Public Schools (NPS). After 16 years of service with NPS, Ms. Cook joined the College Achieve Paterson staff as one of the founding members of the administrative team.

Ms. Cook prides herself in her work. She says the most rewarding part of her job is knowing that her day-to-day work contributes to quality education for today’s youth. In her free time, Ms. Cook enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren and being outdoors.

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Mr. Adair 7th Grade Math Teacher Nurse Barge School Nurse Ms. Bellinger Food Service Manager Ms. S. Bermudez 1st Grade Science Teacher Ms. V. Bermudez ESL Teacher Ms. Blank Physical Education Teacher Ms. K. Brown 1st Grade Teacher Ms. L. Brown 1st Grade Teacher Mr. Capozzi 1st Grade Teacher Ms. Carr-Vassos 1st Grade Co-Teacher Ms. Cedeno Assistant Director of Operations Mr. Cerat 5th Grade Math Teacher Mr. Colon 2nd Grade Co-Teacher Ms. Compres Family Worker Mr. Cotton-Betteridge Music Teacher Ms. Crump First Grade Teacher - Lead Mr. Crawford Technology Coordinator Ms. S. Cedeno Office Manager/Executive Assistant Mr. Davis Teacher's Aide Ms. Dobson Dean of Culture and Climate Mr. Eastlake Physical Education Teacher Ms. Emenike 2nd Grade Teacher Ms. Feliz Executive Assistant Ms. Flynn 3rd Grade Science Teacher Ms. Fortney Director of Elementary Education kfortney@collegeachieve.org Ms. C. Feliz Office Manager/Administrative Assistant Mr. Garcia Food Service Worker Ms. Gordon-Williams 8th Grade Science Teacher Ms. Gregory 2nd Grade Teacher - Lead Ms. Grindell 3rd Grade ELA Teacher Ms. Haynes 5th Grade Math Teacher Ms. Hernandez 3rd Grade Science Teacher Ms. Holsworth Kindergarten Co-Teacher Ms. Ishmell Office Manager/Administrative Assistant Ms. Jackson 8th Grade ELA Teacher Ms. Johnson Special Education Teacher Ms. Jones 3rd Grade Teacher - Lead Mr. Jones 6th Grade Math Teacher Ms. Kindler Kindergarten Teacher Mr. Kopitar 7th Grade Social Studies Teacher Ms. Lafond 6th Grade Science Teacher Ms. Lora 3rd Grade ELA Teacher Ms. Mangine 8th Grade ELA Teacher Ms. Maxwell 8th Grade Social Studies Teacher Mr. Mercado Food Service Worker Mr. Mirambel 7th Grade Science Teacher Ms. Montes ESL Teacher Mr. Oliver 8th Grade Math Teacher Ms. Onque Kindergarten Teacher - Lead Ms. Di Paolo 6th Grade Social Studies Teacher Ms. Phy 2nd Grade Ms. Pierre Executive Assistant Mr. Ponteliona Food Service Director Ms. Prospere 6th Grade Math Teacher Ms. Purvis 5th Grade ELA Teacher Mr. Reid 7th Grade Math Teacher Ms. Reste-Ferreira 3rd Grade Math Teacher Ms. Reynolds Kindergarten Teacher Ms. Rivera 7th Grade ELA Teacher Ms. Robinson 7th Grade ELA Teacher Ms. Sim Art Teacher Ms. Smith Physical Education Teacher Ms. Stickles Kindergarten Teacher Ms. Urta 2nd Grade Teacher Mr. Vincent 5th Grade Social Studies Teacher Ms. Williams 6th Grade Math Teacher - Lead

Special Education Teacher Vice Principal Certified School Nurse Guidance Counselor High School Fine Arts Teacher Music, Visual Art, or Graphic Design High School Science Teacher Physics or Chemistry High School Language Teacher Spanish, French, other World Language Middle School Teacher Science, Math, English, and Social Studies Food Service Manager Full-Time Manager Role Elementary School Teacher Grade K, Science, Math, English, and Social Studies Food Service Worker Part-Time Worker Role

Special Education Teacher

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DESCRIPTION

A teacher at CAPS Paterson will provide students rigorous and relevant learning activities and experiences designed to prepare each student to excel at a top college or university. This position is critical in building strong relationships with our students in order to best meet their individual needs and further the mission of College Achieve.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Conducts assessments, testing and diagnostic examinations of students for the purpose of identifying learning issues and recommending courses of action or corrective procedures to overcome issues and maximize learning.
Participates in PPT’s and assists in developing Individual Educational Plans (“IEP”) for students.
Assists students and teaching staff in implementing students’ IEP’s and behavior management plans.
Coordinates with outside agencies, organizations and institutions, including state and federal authorities as needed.
Coordinates with administrators and other teaching staff members to ascertain individual student’s abilities and needs, including students with special needs, and to familiarize stakeholders with social work services.
Serves as ready resource to students and parents to provide counseling that will lead each student to increased personal growth, self-understanding, and behavioral management; serves as liaison between home and school.
Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research, and by maintaining professional relationships with members of institutions of higher learning and the business community.
Organizes and maintains a system for accurate and complete record-keeping and providing student information to prospective colleges and employers, as required by district procedures and applicable laws.
Encourages parental involvement in students’ education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.

REQUIREMENTS

Knowledge of Special Education principles, theories, testing, methods, etc. as well as proven methods of maximizing the educational experience of students with special needs.
Knowledge of differentiated instruction based on student learning styles.
Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, and the formulation of action plans.
Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
Ability to use computer network systems and software applications as needed.
Ability to organize and coordinate work.
Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Qualifications Profile

Certification/License:
– NJ State Certification as a Special Education Teacher.

COLLEGE ACHIEVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER.

Vice Principal

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We are currently accepting applications for the position of Vice Principal. If you have any questions about the job listing please email teachpaterson@collegeachieve.org.

DESCRIPTION

The Vice Principal will assist in the planning, organizing, and supervision of the day-to-day operations of a school; provide leadership and assistance to teachers in the implementation of educational programs, activities, curriculum guidelines, and all other instructional objectives as defined by the Principal in charge; and perform all other related duties as required. We need leaders who:

Believe all students can achieve at high levels
Grow diverse teams
Are reflective and actively seek opportunities to grow
Innovate the previously unthinkable
Effectively communicate with others
Treat all people with respect and dignity
Know their content and get things done

QUALIFICATIONS and REQUIREMENTS

1. Master’s Degree from an accredited college or university.
2. New Jersey Principal Standard Certificate or a Certificate of Eligibility for Principal.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Assists in the coordination and implementation of school programs.
2. Assists in the planning and organization of school program goals and objectives, teacher and student schedules, and state and district tests and other assessment programs.
3. As assigned, plans and authorizes all assembly programs.
4. Prepares/writes other reports and literature relative to school programs, goals, and objectives.
5. Performs classroom observations and other instructional activities.
6. Assists in the supervision of instructional and non-instructional personnel.
7. As assigned, signs and verifies accident reports.
8. As assigned, evaluates/investigates complaints.
9. Maintains files and records for circulars, bulletins, statistical data and reports, unsatisfactory performance ratings, and school inventory.
10. Attends parent conferences and faculty meetings.
11. Attends/participates in grade level meetings.
12. Attends District/Region-sponsored vice principal meetings, workshops, and other training sessions.
13. Confers with Principal, teachers, parents, students, and the stakeholders.
14. Performs all other related duties as required.

COLLEGE ACHIEVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER.

Certified School Nurse

We are seeking a School Nurse to join our team! You will be responsible for the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of assigned patients. You can apply by emailing a cover letter and resumé to Ms. Cedeno at lcedeno@collegeachieve.org. If you have any questions about this job listing, you can email Ms. Cedeno as well.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Administer nursing care to ill, injured, or disabled patients
2. Diagnose and establish patient treatment plans
3. Monitor and report changes in patient symptoms or behavior
4. Communicate with collaborating physicians or specialists regarding patient care
5. Educate patients about health maintenance and disease prevention
6. Facilitate referrals to other healthcare professionals and medical facilities
7. Maintain accurate patient medical records
8. Provide advice and emotional support to patients and their family members

QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS

1. Previous experience in nursing or other medical fields
2. Familiarity with medical software and equipment
3. Ability to build rapport with patients
4. Strong problem solving and critical thinking skills
5. Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
6. NJ RN license
7. BSN
8. NJ school nurse certification

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

In keeping with our beliefs and goals, no employee or applicant will face discrimination/ harassment based on: race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, age, gender, marital/ domestic partner status, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, or veteran status. People of diverse backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

COLLEGE ACHIEVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER.

Guidance Counselor

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We are seeking a Guidance Counselor to join our team! The counselor will help students develop the academic and social skills necessary to lead successful lives. She or he will observe students in the classroom and at play to assess their knowledge and abilities, help them develop academic and career goals, and provide interventions that address shortcomings. You can apply by emailing a cover letter and resumé to Ms. Cedeno at lcedeno@collegeachieve.org. If you have any questions about this job listing, you can email Ms. Cedeno as well.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Listen to students’ concerns about academic, emotional, or social problems
2. Help students process their problems and plan goals and action
3. Mediate conflict between students and teachers
4. Improve parent/teacher relationships
5. Assist with college applications, jobs and scholarships
6. Facilitate drug and alcohol prevention programs
7. Organize peer counseling programs
8. Refer students to psychologists and other mental health resources
9. Work on academic boards to improve learning conditions

REQUIREMENTS

To be eligible for the standard educational services certificate with a school counselor endorsement, a candidate must hold a master’s or higher degree from a regionally accredited college or university.

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION

COLLEGE ACHIEVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER.

High School Fine Arts Teacher Music, Visual Art, or Graphic Design

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We are currently accepting applications for high school science teachers in the arts, particularly music teachers or those who can teach visual art classes and/or graphic design classes. If you have any questions about the job listing please email teachpaterson@collegeachieve.org.

DESCRIPTION

RESPONSIBILITIES

Create a classroom environment that is safe, conducive to learning, and encourages students to take risks in their learning
Prepare lessons that reflect best practices and accommodations for individual differences of students
Encourage students to take ownership of their learning goals and process
Guide the learning process toward the achievement of curriculum goals and communicate these objectives to the students
Employ a variety of instructional techniques and instructional media consistent with best practices, specific content knowledge, the physical limitations of the space provided, and the needs and capabilities of the individuals or student groups involved.
Strive to implement College Achieve’s philosophy of education and instructional goals and objective
Assess student learning, through observations, authentic performance, and more formal methods, in an ongoing manner, providing frequent student feedback, information to parents and written progress reports
Assist the administration in implementing all policies and rules governing student life and conduct
Participate in all professional development opportunities
Establish and maintain open lines of communication with students, parents, and community members
Perform other job-related duties as assigned

REQUIREMENTS

1. Plans a program of study that meets the individual needs, interests and abilities of students.

2. Evaluates student progress on a regular basis and prepares progress reports.

3. Instructs pupils in citizenship, basic communications skills and other general elements of the course of study common to all teachers, as specified in state law and administrative regulations and procedures of the district.

4. Provides individual, small, and/or large group instruction, whenever appropriate, in order to adapt the curriculum to the needs of pupils with varying intellectual and special abilities.

5. Instructs pupils in proper care and use of textbooks, equipment and materials.

6. Establishes and maintains standards of pupil behavior needed to provide and orderly and productive environment.

7. Selects and requisitions books, instructional materials, equipment, aids, and maintains required inventory records.

8. Develops instructional plans and organizes class time to provide a balanced program of instruction.

9. Develops and maintains professional competence through participation in in-service education activities provided by the district and in self-selected professional growth activities.

10. Supervises out-of classroom activities for pupils during the assigned working day, as required.

11. Plans and coordinates the work of aides, teacher assistants, and other paraprofessionals.

12. Identifies pupil’s needs and cooperates with other professional staff members in assessing and helping pupils solve health, attitude, and learning problems.

13. Communicates with parents and pupil personnel staff members on the individual pupil’s progress and development.

14. Maintains attendance accounting and business service as required.

15. Develops and participates in the sponsorship of student activities and faculty committees.

16. Acts as a resource person on an interdepartmental level to relate appropriate aspects of his/her subject area to other subject areas

17. Works to establish and maintain open lines on communication with students and their parents concerning the academic and behavioral progress of all assigned students.

COLLEGE ACHIEVE PUBLIC SCHOOLS BOARD OF EDUCATION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY / AFFIRMATIVE ACTION EMPLOYER.

High School Science Teacher Physics or Chemistry

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We are currently accepting applications for high school science teachers, particularly those who specialize in Grade 9 Physics, though we are also interested in Chemistry teachers. If you have any questions about the job listing please email teachpaterson@collegeachieve.org.

DESCRIPTION

RESPONSIBILITIES

Create a classroom environment that is safe, conducive to learning, and encourages students to take risks in their learning
Prepare lessons that reflect best practices and accommodations for individual differences of students
Encourage students to take ownership of their learning goals and process
Guide the learning process toward the achievement of curriculum goals and communicate these objectives to the students
Employ a variety of instructional techniques and instructional media consistent with best practices, specific content knowledge, the physical limitations of the space provided, and the needs and capabilities of the individuals or student groups involved.
Strive to implement College Achieve’s philosophy of education and instructional goals and objective
Assess student learning, through observations, authentic performance, and more formal methods, in an ongoing manner, providing frequent student feedback, information to parents and written progress reports
Assist the administration in implementing all policies and rules governing student life and conduct
Participate in all professional development opportunities
Establish and maintain open lines of communication with students, parents, and community members
Perform other job-related duties as assigned