L: What are some of your memorable experiences teaching in high school?
Mrs. J: I would say that my most memorable experience teaching and working at a high school would be the connections that I'm allowed to make with students, whether that is in a classroom setting or outside of the classroom, and being able to build those relationships and that rapport with students.
L: What can students expect from your leadership style, and how can they best talk to you about their ideas?
Mrs. J: My leadership style, I would say, would be a mixture of styles primarily focusing on transformative and collaborative. My idea and focus would be to have an open door policy so that students feel welcome to come and speak to me with regards to their concerns. They can always schedule an appointment if they need to see me but typically they feel comfortable coming to see me when I'm out in the hallway.
L: What do you enjoy most about working with high school students, and what motivated you to work in education?
Mrs. J: What I enjoy most about working with high school students is their drive and passion. What motivated me to go into education is my desire to create a learning environment for students that is inclusive and equitable, one that would allow students to reach their fullest academic potential.
L: Are there any specific quotes related to education or leadership that have inspired you?
Mrs. J: One of my favorite quotes (I own a shirt with this quote) says โBe the change you wish to see in the world,โ by Gandhi.
L: What do you think of Newark Tech?
Mrs. J: Newark Tech is a transformational school; we're heading on a great path to greatness, and it is filled with outstanding students, and dynamic staff members and teachers.
L: Are there any specific school events you look forward to?
Mrs. J: I'm looking forward to the pep rallies because they are an opportunity to acknowledge the accomplishments of students in sports.
L: What is something unique or interesting about yourself that you would like students to know?
Mrs. J: Currently, I am a bilingual person, but something unique is the fact that I am working on learning a third language, French, and my goal is to be trilingual, hopefully in the next couple of years.
L: What are your hobbies or interests outside of being vice principal?
Mrs. J: I have four kids. We are a family of six. Aside from carving out time to spend with my family, I also like to garden and work on house projects
L: If you could give one piece of advice to the students, what would it be?
Mrs. J: The sky is the limit.
L: What are your thoughts on students creating clubs?
Mrs. J: I think it is a great thing for students to start clubs, it is a way for them to take ownership and show their leadership qualities. Clubs are a great way to bring the school community together. I support students creating new clubs, 100%.
