School Staff
Kashon Lopes
Principal
Born in the City of Newark, NJ after his parents migrated to the United States from Guyana; Dr. Kashon Lopes is a product of Irvington Public Schools. Beginning his career as a substitute teacher at his alma mater, Dr. Lopes completed his BA in English and MA in Teaching at Drew University.
Soon after, he began teaching English in the South Orange-Maplewood school district. During this time, Dr. Lopes received recognition for his implementation of co-teaching models while teaching middle school inclusion classes. In South Orange-Maplewood, Dr. Lopes served on various committees and in other leadership roles. He was a member of the Data Analysis team, the District’s Evaluation Advisory Committee (DEAC), and Intervention & Referral Services (I&RS) Committee. Dr. Lopes also wrote curricula for the district and was a Site Supervisor for the Achieve Foundation’s comprehensive tutoring program (a local 501c3). In his spare time, Dr. Lopes also coached two award-winning boys and girls Track and Field teams at Columbia High School. Due to the gains that Dr. Lopes accomplished in the classroom and for his school community, he was encouraged to return back to graduate school for course work in Educational Leadership, where he received his degree in Leadership, Management and Policy at Seton Hall University.
Shortly thereafter, Dr. Lopes started his leadership journey as a Literacy Coach at New Horizons Community Charter School where he worked alongside staff developers from Columbia University’s Teachers College: Reading and Writing Project. Under his supervision, the academic performance of students in literacy increased greatly with the best practices that he provided teachers.
In 2019, Dr. Lopes brought his expertise to Newark Public Schools when he became the Vice Principal at McKinley Elementary School. Working with the leadership team, Dr. Lopes worked tirelessly to improve the academic programming and attendance rates at McKinley Elementary School.
In 2024, Dr. Lopes received his doctorate degree.
Based on servant leadership, Dr. Lopes’s educational philosophy believes in placing the needs of students, staff, and the community at the forefront of every decision. Dr. Lopes also recognizes the importance of providing academic and extra-curricular programming as well as wraparound services to all stakeholders.
In wanting the best for every child in Newark, NJ - Dr. Lopes embraces the words of Rita Pierson, “Every child deserves a champion —an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.”
Angela Sussner
Vice Principal: PK - 2nd Grade
My name is Angela Sussner and I am the Vice Principal overseeing Pre-Kindergarten to 2nd grade. I have been an educator with Newark Public Schools for 20 years. I started as a teacher, then became a Math Instructional Coach and now I serve as a Vice Principal, entering my third year. I am a proud graduate of Saint John’s University where I obtained my Bachelor's in Elementary Education and the University of Phoenix where I obtained my Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and Supervision. I look forward to continue providing all students and families with an excellent educational experience. My goal this school year is to develop strong working relationships with the staff and students, families, and community members. That being said, if you have any questions or concerns throughout the year do not hesitate to contact me. I believe open lines of communication are extremely important.
I look forward to meeting all of you and working together throughout the year.
Dr. Shelly Caldwell
Vice Principal: 3rd Grade - 5th Grade
Dr. Shelly A. Caldwell was born and raised in the city of Newark where she attended parochial school for elementary and high school. She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Bloomfield College, Master of Arts Degree in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University, and Doctorate in Education from the University of Phoenix. Dr. Caldwell taught students in grades Pre-K, 1st, and 2nd during her tenure as a classroom teacher. Dr. Caldwell transitioned from the classroom to central working in the office of Early Childhood for two urban school districts. Dr. Caldwell is passionate about early childhood education as it is the foundation for education. She believes that all students should have equitable access to high-quality educational experiences. Dr. Caldwell strives to work in collaboration with families and the community to meet the needs of students and ensure their academic and social-emotional success.
Kelly Mitchell
Vice Principal: 6th Grade - 8th Grade
My Name is Kelly Mitchell and I am the Vice Principal over the Middle School. Born and raised in Hoboken, I have a strong connection to my community. I am a proud parent of a 19-year-old daughter, who inspires me every day. I earned my Bachelor’s degree at Saint Peter's University in Jersey City and went on to complete my Master in Education Leadership from Western Governors University (WGU).
With 33 years of experience in education, I have dedicated my career to shaping the minds of young learners. Prior to becoming Vice Principal, I have served as a Math Instructional Coach, where I have had the opportunity to support both teachers and students in developing a deeper understanding of mathematics. For the past year as a Vice Principal, I have been focusing on fostering a positive learning environment and enhancing educational outcomes.
Throughout the majority of my career, I have taught Middle School students, a demographic that I am truly passionate about. I believe that all students should have access to high-quality education that fosters their learning and growth. My goal is to prepare our students for high school and beyond, equipping them with the skills they need to succeed in their future endeavors. Following the Mission and Vision of our school shapes and develops our students to be well-rounded individuals, ready to face the challenges of the future.