Leadership Team
Thalia Brownridge-Smith
Principal
Principal Thalia Brownridge-Smith is a dedicated educational leader with a proven track record in operations, program development, and instructional coaching. Born and raised in Newark's West Ward, she is proud to lead Thirteenth Avenue School, “The Pride of Newark.”
A Newark native, she was raised in Georgia King Village and graduated as Valedictorian from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School. Awarded a substantial scholarship to attend The Peddie School, she thrived as a student-athlete and member of the Cum Laude Honor Society, leading to a full scholarship to the University of Pennsylvania (UPenn).
At UPenn, she earned a Bachelor’s in Psychology with double minors in African-American Studies and Anthropology, followed by a Master’s in Education. She began her teaching career in North Philadelphia, later returning to Newark to teach Middle School Mathematics at Miller Street School, where she served in several teacher leader roles, earning multiple “Highly Effective” ratings and completing the New Leaders: Emerging Leaders Program.
After earning her second Master’s and Principal Certification from Teachers College, Columbia University, she served as Vice Principal at Louise A. Spencer School, where she led the Middle School team and Mathematics Department.
In her first year as Principal of Thirteenth Avenue School, she spearheaded several major initiatives, including coordinating a comprehensive school renovation, expanding Special Education programs, launching a Bilingual Education program, and strengthening partnerships with the community to cultivate a school culture rooted in pride and achievement.
Principal Brownridge-Smith is committed to fostering a school environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential. With this year’s theme, “Expanding Horizons: Growing Together, Achieving More!”, she looks forward to continuing to build strong partnerships with families, staff, and the community. Proud to share this journey with her husband and two sons, she remains dedicated to leading Thirteenth Avenue School, "The Pride of Newark," toward continued success.
Mrs. Yalonda Smith
Vice Principal, Grades: 6-8
Ms. Yolanda Smith is a highly qualified professional with an impressive educational background. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Elementary Education from New Jersey City University, a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and Policy Management from Seton Hall University, and a School Management and Leadership certification from Harvard Graduate School of Education. With nearly 20 years of experience at Newark Public School, Ms. Smith has held various roles and aims to bring her expertise to benefit the Thirteenth Ave school
community. Her goals include fostering teacher and student growth, building collaborative teams, and creating a thriving educational environment
Ms. Smith is a firm advocate of the transformative power of education in instilling the virtues of serving oneself, family, community, nation, and the global community. Throughout her career, she has maintained an open-door policy, offering unwavering support to colleagues, students, and families. She is dedicated to nurturing students and helping them unearth their authentic calling and life mission. The standards and dedication Ms.Smith has set for her five children, husband, and family are the foundation of what she hopes to achieve with her students and families at Thirteenth Ave.
Mr. Matthew Kessler
Vice Principal, Grades: 3-5
Mr. Kessler graduated from The Pennsylvania State University with a bachelors degree in history and Holy Family University with a masters in education. As a teacher, Mr. Kessler had the opportunity to work in the Philadelphia area, London, England, Fairfax, county, Virginia, and Washington DC. Mr. Kessler moved to New Jersey and taught in Maplewood for five years. Mr. Kessler taught fourth and fifth grade. Mr. Kessler has been vice principal at Thirteenth Ave School since 2015.
Mr. Kessler has three children who are in high school and middle school. His wife is also an educator. Mr. Kessler enjoys supporting his children’s activities such as theater, track, basketball and soccer. Mr. Kessler likes to read, get outdoors, play sports and travel. Mr. Kessler supervises 3rd-5th grades and 1st-8th special education classes. He is looking forward for another great year at 13th Ave School.
Ms. Camille Reid
Vice Principal, Grades: Pk - 2
Ms. Camille Reid serves as the Vice Principal of Pre-K through 2nd grade and English Language Arts at Thirteenth Avenue School, bringing over 15 years of teaching and educational leadership experience to the role. She holds a B.A in Early Childhood Education from Kean University, a double Master's in Curriculum and Instruction: Teacher Leadership and Reading from Concordia University, and a Master's in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University. Her commitment to academic excellence and student well-being is reflected in her previous roles as an Early Childhood Teacher and Literacy Coach.
In her current role, Ms. Reid focuses on enhancing student achievement and promoting a positive school culture. She leads initiatives aimed at improving instructional practices and provides mentorship to teachers to help them achieve their professional goals. Her passion for education is matched by her dedication to creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment. Ms. Reid is deeply passionate about fostering a love for learning among students. She believes in creating engaging and dynamic educational experiences that inspire curiosity and drive academic growth, ensuring that each student reaches their full potential. Aside from being an educator, being a mother has been her greatest accomplishment, as well as immersing herself in the joy of creating art in her spare time.