Vice Principals

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Theresa Finkelstein

Vice Principal

Theresa Finkelstein began her teaching career 17 years ago in the Newark Public Schools as a Kindergarten teacher. From there she became a building level literacy coach and spent three years at Central Office in the Literacy Department before joining us at Franklin School.

Ms. Finkelstein has a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Elementary Education. In addition to that she has a Master’s Degree in Reading and Educational Administration. Ms. Finkelstein is a certified Reading Specialist and upholds National Board Certification in Early and Middle Childhood Literacy. She is excited to nurture the love of reading within all of the students and staff at Franklin School.

joanthan

Jonathan Olavarria

Vice Principal

Mr. Jonathan Olavarria has over 10 years of experience in urban public education. During that time he served as a mentor, Substitute Teacher, Classroom Teacher, Curriculum & Assessment Writer, Career Exploration Program Coordinator, and most recently as a Vice Principal. Mr. Olavarria holds New Jersey certifications in Social Studies, Bilingual/Bicultural Education, Special Education, Supervisor and Principal.

Mr. Olavarria was born and raised in Jersey City, New Jersey. He is a first generation college graduate in his family. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Kean University. Mr. Olavarria also holds a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University, and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Religion, concentrating in Urban Ministry from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.

Mr. Olavarria loves to travel, serve his community and spending quality time with his family and friends.

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Jonathan Gonzalez

Vice Principal

Jonathan Gonzalez began his teaching career shortly after graduating from Kean University with his B.A. in Chemistry.  Starting as a long-term substitute Science teacher, Gonzalez completed the alternate route program to earn his standard teaching certification.  For the next 10 years, he taught middle school Science in urban schools.  Throughout this time, Mr. Gonzalez attended Montclair State University, where he would earn his Master’s degree in Educational Leadership.

During his decade-long teaching career, Mr. Gonzalez strived to create an environment where students can utilize unique skills and interests to develop a better understanding of the world around them.  As a leader, he seeks to be an exemplar for both students and teachers by contributing to a culture where all members are able to learn, face challenges with confidence, and most importantly - grow!
Mr. Gonzalez loves spending time with his family and enjoys the outdoors.