Administration
Karla Venezia email: kvenezia@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Principal
Mrs. Venezia has dedicated the past 17 years to Newark Public Schools, a testament to her unwavering commitment to educational excellence and community engagement. She graduated with a BA in History from Rutgers University-Newark and earned an MA in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University. Her professional qualifications include certifications in elementary education (K-6) and administration.
Mrs. Venezia began her career in 2007 at Miller Street School in Newark, where she started as a classroom teacher. Her exceptional skills quickly led her to the role of Math Coach, and her leadership potential was further recognized with a promotion to Vice Principal at the same school. In 2019, she took on the role of Principal at Louise A. Spencer School, where she continues to make a significant impact.
Throughout her career, Mrs. Venezia has consistently demonstrated a profound dedication to her students, families, staff, and the broader community. Her leadership philosophy is centered on setting high expectations and fostering a positive school climate. By cultivating an environment that supports both academic and personal growth, she ensures that every member of her school community has the opportunity to thrive.
Nadira Coley email: ncoley@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Vice Principal
Ms. Coley, a proud Newark native, has passionately served as an educator in the community of Newark for 20 years. Within her academic career, she taught at Cleveland Elementary and Sir Isaac Newton Elementary School. Expanding her passion for education beyond the classroom, she served as Program Monitor for the Extended Learning Time Program and currently chairs the Youth Committee for the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc., Delta Pi Chapter, a professional organization for women in education.
In 2008, she earned a Master of Arts in Teaching Early Childhood. Modeling her commitment as a lifelong learner, she recently completed graduate studies at Montclair State University earning a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership. During her academic studies, she received the Outstanding Potential in Educational Leadership award from the College for Education and Engaged Learning at Montclair State University.
Ms. Coley is committed to empowering children and young adults to become leaders of change. She is excited to join the amazing leadership team at Louise A. Spencer where she will serve as the Vice Principal for Pre-Kindergarten to 2nd Grade.
Esmeralda Rodriguez email: eburgos@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Vice Principal
Mrs. Rodriguez was born and raised in Newark and attended Wilson Avenue School and Arts High School. Mrs. Rodriguez graduated from Montclair State University with a BA in history, and received her MA in Educational Leadership from Grand Canyon University. She holds certifications in elementary education K-6 and administration.
She started her career in education over 16 years ago at Sussex Avenue School as a fifth grade literacy teacher and subsequently taught at Cleveland School and Hawkins Street School. Most recently, she worked in the capacity of Teacher Coach for Literacy at George Washington Carver School and Bruce Street School of the Deaf.
As a parent of three children, Mrs. Rodriguez understands the importance of parental and community involvement as a Home-School-Association Vice President and she will strive to maintain and enhance the partnership within Louise A. Spencer community. As Vice Principal, Mrs. Rodriguez will be overseeing third to fifth grades.
Malack Amenya email: mamenya@nullnps.k12.nj.us
Vice Principal
Mr. Malack Amenya brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for education to his role as Vice Principal of Middle School. With a Master’s degree in Education Leadership and as a distinguished graduate of the inaugural cohort of the Montclair/Newark Urban Teachers Academy, he is well-prepared to lead and inspire. His academic background is further strengthened by dual Bachelor of Science degrees in Mathematics Education and Computer Science from Montclair State University.
With 20 years of dedicated teaching experience across high and middle school mathematics, Mr. Amenya has developed a proven track record of fostering a love for learning and driving academic excellence. His commitment to student success and his ability to engage students with enthusiasm and expertise have been cornerstones of his career.
Before stepping into his current role, Mr. Amenya served as a Mathematics Coach, where he played a crucial role in supporting and mentoring fellow educators and enhancing instructional practices. His leadership philosophy is grounded in a steadfast commitment to educational innovation and cultivating a positive, inclusive school culture. Mr. Amenya is eager to contribute to our school’s continued growth and success, working collaboratively with students, staff, and the community to help every student reach their fullest potential.