Khadijah Owens is a dedicated educational leader with more than 27 years of experience in education, committed to fostering academic excellence, positive school culture, and student success.

Mrs. Owens began her educational journey by earning an Associate Degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education from Essex County College. She continued her studies at Kean University, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a minor in Sociology. She later obtained a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Seton Hall University, preparing her to lead schools with vision, integrity, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Mrs. Owens began her career in education at St. Rocco School, where she worked full-time while attending evening classes at Kean University. During her three years there, she built a strong instructional foundation and developed a passion for serving diverse learners.

She then joined New Horizons Community Charter School, where she served for two years, further strengthening her instructional expertise and leadership skills.

Mrs. Owens continued her career with the Newark Board of Education, where she has served in a variety of instructional and leadership roles. She began as a 4th- and 7th-grade Mathematics Teacher at Alexander Street School and later became a Lead Teacher, Teacher Coach, and Cheerleading Coach, mentoring both students and fellow educators.

She later transferred to Chancellor Avenue School, where she taught 6th- and 7th-grade Mathematics. Her outstanding instructional leadership led to her appointment as Chief Innovation Officer and subsequently Vice Principal, where she focused on instructional improvement, staff development, and student achievement.

Mrs. Owens then served as Vice Principal at Weequahic High School for four years, helping to strengthen school culture, improve academic outcomes, and support the growth of students and staff.

She currently serves as the Principal of Speedway Avenue School, where she is committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and academically rigorous learning environment while building strong partnerships with students, families, staff, and the community.

Throughout her career, Mrs. Owens has also held numerous summer leadership positions, including Summer School Teacher, Teacher to Assist, Summer Principal, and Overall QUEST Summer Principal, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to expanding educational opportunities beyond the traditional school year.

Mrs. Owens believes that every child deserves access to high-quality instruction, meaningful relationships, and opportunities to thrive. Her leadership is grounded in collaboration, equity, innovation, and the belief that all students can achieve excellence when supported by a caring and dedicated school community.