2025 Leadership Lab
Practitioners

Monica Barber

Booker T. Washington Elementary School
Tampa, FL

  • Monica has been a principal since 2020. Born and raised in North Carolina, she attended college at the University of North Carolina at Wilmington and earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. Her family decided to relocate to the beautiful city of Tampa, Florida where she earned her master's degree in educational leadership at the University of South Florida. She is blessed with three beautiful daughters Madelyn (13), Mariella (12) and Millie (4). In Monica's free time, she loves to read, run, travel, and spend time with her family. She is the principal at Booker T. Washington Elementary. Prior to this position, she was the assistant principal at Booker T. Washington Elementary for six years and assistant principal at Roland Park K-8 for one year. Monica also enjoyed many years in the classroom teaching kindergarten, first grade, third grade, and fourth grade at Kimbell Elementary. Monica works under the philosophy that everything we do in our schools should be done with the best interest of our students in mind. She is determined to support every child, every day. Monica hopes to inspire others to bring energy, enthusiasm, and thoughtfulness needed to make their school of choice- a high performing school.

Charles Beavers

Durkin Park Elementary
Chicago, IL

  • Charles Beavers II, a South Side Chicago native, has dedicated his life to education, integrity, and transformative thinking. Transitioning from corporate America to teaching in 2012, he began as a special education teacher at Charles Kozminski Community Academy through the Chicago Teaching Fellows Program. Beyond the classroom, Charles led the Student Engagement team, the Continuous Improvement Work Plan Team, and served on the Instructional Leadership team and Local School Council, fostering growth and innovation. In his role as an Instructional Support Leader for Chicago Public Schools’ Network 3, Charles guided 19 schools in Austin and Belmont-Cragin, helping leaders implement instructional practices that elevated student achievement. In 2021, Charles became Principal of Durkin Park Elementary, focusing on standards-aligned instruction and teacher leadership. Under his leadership, the school has achieved significant growth in reading and math. His work with the Local School Council and advisory groups ensures inclusive decision-making and strengthens home-school connections. Outside of work, Charles enjoys family time with his wife and two children, playing golf, exploring Chicago by bike, and embracing new experiences, embodying his belief in balance and personal growth.

Cynthia Crim

Palm River Elementary School
Tampa, FL

  • Cynthia Folsom Crim was born in Tampa, Florida and attended Hillsborough County Public Schools from kindergarten until graduating high school. She then attended Florida State University where she majored in Elementary Education and was a member of Delta Zeta Sorority. Upon graduating, she moved back to Tampa where she began her teaching career. Cynthia’s career has included teaching 1st and 5th grades, math coach, district math coach, assistant principal and principal. In 2011, Cynthia Crim was named the Hillsborough County Teacher of the Year and most recently, in 2024, she was named Hillsborough County Principal of the Year. Cynthia’s career has been dedicated to working in the district’s lowest performing schools and has moved one school out of state and district turn-around status, growing the school’s grade over 140 points over the course of her principalship. She is currently the principal of her childhood elementary school, also one of the district’s transformation schools. While at Florida State, Cynthia met her husband Nick and they share three daughters together. Caroline (17) is a varsity cheerleader, Chloe (15) is a diver and Carley Grace (13) is a swimmer and all three girls are active in FFA and raise and show cattle.

Dr. Jennifer Dames

Potter Elementary School
Tampa, FL

  • Dr. Jennifer Taylor Dames is a dedicated educator and leader with a strong passion for science and leadership. Born in Richmond, VA and inspired by her teachers, family and church community, she pursued higher education at the University of Virginia, where she earned both a Masters of Teaching and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a Specialization in Biological Chemistry. Dr. Dames began her teaching career in Richmond, VA, before moving to Jacksonville and Brevard County, FL, where she continued her work in education and administration. In 2021, she became a principal, first serving at Doris Reddick Elementary and currently leading Potter Elementary. She earned her doctorate from the University of Central Florida, with support from the McKnight Doctoral Fellowship. Her research focused on minority women entering the medical field. Dr. Dames is passionate about connecting STEM to societal issues, especially for African Americans and other minorities, and has contributed through research, writing, and lectures. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Dr. Dames is the proud mother of three children: Detra, Jailynn, and Glenn (Trey) III.

Joey Denoncourt

College View Elementary
Denver, CO

  • Joey Denoncourt, a 2021 Cahn Fellowship Ally, began his career as a bilingual teacher in Denver Public Schools in 2012. Joey is passionate about supporting the unique strengths and talents of students, families, and staff members. He is enthusiastic about creating strong systems, structures, and experiences that allow the community to thrive. Before moving into the Principal position at College View Elementary in 2022, Joey served as a teacher, instructional coach, Assistant Principal, and Principal Resident. In 2023, Joey was named the Reba Ferguson Rookie Principal of the Year by the Colorado Association of School Executives. In his short time as Principal, College View Elementary has moved from Turnaround status to Meeting Expectations on Colorado’s School Performance Framework. Originally from the Canadian border of northern New York, Joey received his B.A. in Spanish Linguistics from Arizona State University and his M.A. in Critical Pedagogy from the University of Colorado - Denver. He is a developing trainer of Cognitive Coaching and a graduate of both the Relay National Principal Academy Fellowship and the Arizona State University Leadership Institute. Joey passionately believes that school is a place to gather, belong, and grow, and has a relentless approach to supporting the whole school community.

Tonetta Green

H.J. Russell West End Academy
Atlanta, GA

  • Tonetta Green leads with a strong commitment to excellence and innovation. She focuses on fostering a learning environment that empowers both students and educators to grow and thrive. Tonetta has been a principal since 2022 and is passionate about creating opportunities in her school that will help students develop critical thinking, creativity, and leadership skills that prepare them for success in the future. Under Tonetta’s leadership, she has embraced a student-centered approach that prioritizes academic rigor, personalized learning, and social-emotional development. Tonetta works closely with staff, students, and families to ensure that every decision and initiative aligns with the school’s mission of providing an engaging and transformative educational experience. Prior to joining school administration, Tonetta served as an instructional coach and was able to collaborate with teachers to enhance their instructional practices. Tonetta's passion for coaching and mentoring educators has greatly influenced her leadership style, focusing on empowering teachers to reach their full potential while ensuring students receive the highest quality education. Tonetta is excited to continue this work and looks forward to creating an inclusive and inspiring environment for all students and staff.

Larry A. Guilford

Sylvan Hills Middle School
Atlanta, GA

  • Principal Larry A. Guilford is a dedicated and innovative educational leader with extensive experience in urban school settings. Since becoming the principal of Sylvan Hills Middle School in 2022, Mr. Guilford has achieved a 36% improvement in the Closing the Gap rating, reaching an impressive 95.8%, and reduced the percentage of 8th-grade beginning learners in ELA on the EOG by 11%. Their strategic leadership fosters positive school culture and strengthens relationships with students, families, and community stakeholders. Previously, as Assistant Principal at B.E.S.T Academy and Eddie J. White K-8 Academy, Mr. Guilford improved school climate ratings, increased staff retention, and spearheaded data-driven initiatives that significantly boosted academic outcomes, including a 78% growth in 8th-grade math scores. As a Behavioral Specialist and PBIS Coach, they provided Tier 2 and Tier 3 supports for over 80 students, leading to measurable improvements in academic and behavioral performance. Larry's career includes impactful roles as a Program Manager and Graduation Coach, managing staff, budgets, and initiatives that supported student success and college readiness. Their expertise extends to resource allocation, instructional program development, and blended learning models. Mr. Guilford is a passionate advocate for equity in education, continuously driving measurable outcomes for students and communities.

Dr. Crystal January

Harper-Archer Elementary School
Atlanta, GA

  • Dr. Crystal J. January is a dedicated educator who has been a principal since 2022. Dr. January brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her leadership role, having served as a teacher, school counselor, instructional coach, and assistant principal. Her diverse professional journey spans high school, middle school, elementary school and non-traditional alternative schools across Georgia and Alabama, equipping her with a well-rounded perspective on education. Dr. January is committed to fostering a high-achieving, equitable school environment where scholars are lovingly prepared to blaze their paths toward college and career success. Her leadership emphasizes the empowerment of scholars and staff to thrive in the best place to learn and work. As a passionate advocate for equity and lifelong learning, Dr. Crystal J. January remains steadfast in her mission to uplift the entire school community and collectively create transformative educational experiences.

Kiesha Kemp

Magnet School of Multimedia Arts & Engineering
New York

  • Kiesha Kemp has served as a dedicated and visionary principal of the Magnet School of Multimedia Arts & Engineering @ Van Siclen Community Middle School since 2021, leading with passion, innovation, and a commitment to academic excellence. Under her leadership, the school transitioned to a Magnet School in 2022, integrating multimedia arts and engineering themes to enhance diversity and academic engagement. Kiesha is dedicated to fostering academic growth, innovation, and equity. Currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership at Russell Sage College, Kiesha is deeply invested in advancing research-based practices that drive school improvement and student success. Her scholarly pursuits complement her professional experience, allowing her to bridge theory and application in meaningful ways that benefit her school community. As a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Kiesha exemplifies the values of service, scholarship, and sisterhood. Her passion for education and dedication to creating opportunities for students and educators reflects a lifelong commitment to community upliftment and leadership, extending beyond her role in education. With an unwavering commitment to excellence and a heart for empowering others, Kiesha continues to inspire and lead by example in every facet of her journey.

Yasmeen Khaliq

Ray K Daily Elementary
Houston, TX

  • Yasmeen Khaliq, the proud Principal of Ray K Daily since February 2023, has been a transformative leader, ensuring academic success through high-quality and culturally relevant instruction. She has revamped high-quality instruction on a diverse campus to foster student growth and achievement. Her tenure is marked by the launch of numerous initiatives aimed at promoting equitable resources for all students. A distinguished alumna of Houston ISD schools, Ms. Khaliq began her impactful teaching career at Lewis Elementary as an ESL/ELA teacher. She also excelled as a Literacy Specialist through HISD’s Career Pathways program. At Ortiz Middle School, Ms. Khaliq served as a magnet coordinator and assistant principal, where she significantly enhanced teacher capacity as instructional leaders, effectively marketed the fine arts programs, and developed robust student systems to foster a positive culture and increase engagement. Her exceptional dedication and leadership have earned her multiple accolades, including Campus Teacher of the Year for 2017-2018 and the prestigious Houston ISD First-Year Secondary Assistant Principal of the Year award in 2021-2022. Ms. Khaliq’s academic credentials include a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Texas A&M University-College Station.

Regina Latimer-Lake

Charles W. Earle STEM
Chicago, IL

  • Ms. Regina Latimer Lake, a proud mother of two and a product of the Chicago Public Schools system, has dedicated 24 years to CPS. Hailing from the South Side, she currently serves as the principal of Earle STEM Elementary School, where she is committed to supporting Black and Brown students and families in the Englewood community. Principal Lake holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, a Master’s in Reading Specialist, a Master’s in Curriculum Instruction, and a Master’s in Urban School Leadership, with plans to pursue a Doctoral Degree in Literacy. Under her leadership, Earle STEM has seen impressive achievements, including a 100-student enrollment increase, STEM Demonstration Site status, and a commendable ISBE rating. She has also improved attendance by over 10 percentage points, reduced disciplinary infractions, and raised teacher retention to 95%. The school earned a "Well Organized" rating on the Five Essentials Survey for two years in a row. Recently, she was named Principal of the Year by the Englewood Community Action Council. Principal Lake remains a passionate and inspiring leader, making a lasting impact on her school and community.

Natalie Lawrence

Dreyfus Intermediate School, 49
New York

  • Natalie Lawrence has been the proud principal of Dreyfus Intermediate School, 49 since 2022. With over 22 years in education, Natalie began her teaching career in 2002 as a substitute teacher in the NYC school system and never looked back. Principal Lawrence has served in various capacities as a mathematics educator, department lead, teacher leader, data specialist, and dean. In 2020, in the midst of the pandemic, she was selected to be an Assistant Principal. Her dedication to the Dreyfus community has never faltered and Ms. Lawrence is fully invested in creating a culture and climate of inclusivity, safety, and academic excellence. Principal Lawrence works to ensure that Dreyfus is a community where everyone can collaborate and communicate to provide an effective learning environment for all students, while carrying out the vision and mission of Dreyfus Intermediate School 49. She is committed to working closely with teachers, families, and the community to ensure all students achieve their full potential. However, Ms. Lawrence believes that her greatest achievement comes from her personal life, as she is the mother of two beautiful girls. They are the reason she is encouraged daily to be the best version of herself.

Kahinde Longmire

McCutcheon STEAM Elementary School
Chicago, IL

  • Kahinde Longmire is a relentless advocate for all children and a beacon of hope in the education landscape. Her career in education began in 1994, her journey is marked by unwavering dedication and a strong belief that every student can achieve their dreams with proper support and advocacy. Kahinde earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Trinity Christian College and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from Chicago State University. She ignited her commitment to creating equitable learning environments during these formative years. Kahinde spent eighteen years as a teacher in private and public school systems. Since 2012, Kahinde has served the north and south sides of Chicago as assistant principal and principal in Chicago Public Schools. Kahinde proudly serves as the Principal of McCutcheon STEAM Elementary School. She has partnered with her school community to transform the institution into a recognized STEAM Demonstration Site, garnering attention for its innovative approaches to education. Under her leadership, McCutcheon has become a model, ensuring every child has access to a rich and engaging learning experience. Her influence extends beyond the walls of her school. In 2024, she was honored with the CPS Game Changer Award, recognizing her significant contributions to educational reform.

Dr. Catherine Martin

Sumner Math & Science Community Academy
Chicago, IL

  • Dr. Catherine B. Martin brings 19 years of experience to public education. Dr. Martin began her career as a school social worker dedicated to providing social emotional interventions and resources to Chicago students and families. Currently, Dr. Martin proudly serves as the Principal of Sumner Math & Science Community Academy on Chicago's west side. Dr. Martin prides herself on the unyielding support she offers to staff inclusive of instructional and social emotional support coaching. She finds true delight in working to create and sustain emotionally safe, productive spaces for children to learn and thrive. Dr. Martin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a Master’s in Social Service Administration from the University of Chicago and a PhD in Educational Leadership from DePaul University. Her research interests include Black educator retention, culturally responsive pedagogy, critical race theory and trauma responsive teaching practices.

Peter McHugh

M.S. 158 - Marie Curie Middle School
New York

  • Peter McHugh began his career with the New York City Public Schools in 2000. Before joining Marie Curie Middle School, he served as the Climate and Culture Manager at the Queens North Borough Office, where he provided professional learning opportunities such as Therapeutic Crisis Intervention in Schools and Restorative Practices. Peter also facilitated the Borough Student Advisory Council, offering leadership training to student representatives. Peter earned his bachelor’s degree from Queens College in 2000 and continued his graduate studies while teaching Social Studies. He received his Master’s Degree in Social Studies Education, Cum Laude, in 2004, and a second Master's Degree in School Administration and Supervision, Magna Cum Laude, in 2007. As a teacher, Peter excelled in delivering high-quality, differentiated instruction, and participated in initiatives like New York and the World and the American Social History Project. His roles as Dean, UFT Chapter Leader, and curriculum writer prepared him for his position as an Assistant Principal, where he led academic departments and supported student needs. Now in his fifth year as Principal of M.S. 158, Peter remains dedicated to addressing individual student needs and fostering educational success. He values expanding educational opportunities and creating school-community partnerships to benefit all students.

Dr. Kathryn Nestler

Stone Scholastic Academy
Chicago, IL

  • Dr. Kate Nestler is the proud principal of Stone Scholastic Academy, a K-8 magnet school in Chicago Public Schools (CPS). After beginning her career as a kindergarten and first grade teacher in CPS, Dr. Nestler earned a masters degree in education policy from Harvard in 2012. Dr. Nestler then detoured into district-level leadership, working as a data strategist and an assessment manager in the CPS Department of Assessment. In 2017, Dr. Nestler relished the opportunity to return to the school-level as part of the Chicago Leadership Collaborative (CLC) principal preparation program. She joined Stone’s community as the assistant principal in 2018, earned a doctorate in education leadership from the University of Illinois at Chicago in 2021, and became Stone’s principal in 2022. Stone is one of the most racially, culturally, and socio-economically diverse schools in Chicago and Dr. Nestler strives to ensure Stone is a place where differences are celebrated as a source of social and intellectual strength. In 2024, the state of Illinois recognized Stone as an “Exemplary” school. “Exemplary” schools perform in the top 10% of Illinois schools overall and, in Stone’s case, across sub-groups, including English Learners, economically disadvantaged students, students with disabilities, and Black students.

Carla Nolan

Miles Elementary
Tampa, FL

  • Carla Nolan has been an educator since 2008, spending the entirety of her career in Hillsborough County Public Schools. From 2008-2013, Carla was an elementary teacher. Carla entered school administration in 2013 and worked as a New Teacher Mentor and Teacher Talent Developer until 2018, and served as an AP until 2022. Carla has been the principal at Miles Elementary since January 2022. She has a passion for creating a positive school culture based around high expectations for all. Miles' school motto in her tenure is "Be better than yesterday." Carla has improved metrics at the school, which was failing upon her arrival and has achieved a passing school grade for multiple years. Outside of school, Carla enjoys spending time with her husband and dogs, knitting, and running. She has completed 13 marathons to date.

Dr. Robert Quinlan

Midwood High School
New York

  • Dr. Robert J. Quinlan has been the principal of Midwood High School at Brooklyn College in Brooklyn South District 22 since August 2022. There he leads an amazing school with a little under 4,000 students, 4,000 parents and guardians, 300 staff members, and has an incredible administrative cabinet with 13 assistant principals. Robert is always in the hallways, classrooms, athletic competitions, student-led club meetings, has an open-door policy, utilizes social media to highlight positive news going on in the community, and enjoys interacting with the many stakeholders at Midwood High School. Previously, he was the AP of Humanities and Guidance at Brooklyn Arts in Brooklyn North District 15 from August 2012 to August 2022. Prior to his administrative work, Robert was a social studies teacher, AVID teacher, and AP US History and AP World History teacher. He went to NYU for Social Studies Secondary Education, Touro for Administration, and Sage College for his Doctorate. Robert is married to Josephine, an RN at NYU Langone, and they have three young children. In his free time Robert enjoys spending time with family, running or working out, chores around the house, and is an avid sports fan and reader.

Melanie Sithole

Tuskegee Airmen Global Academy
Atlanta, GA

  • Melanie Sithole is a results-driven and compassionate educational leader known for her ability to use flexible, innovative strategies to enhance practices at Tuskegee Airmen Global Academy, where she has served as principal since 2022. Mrs. Sithole’s career in education started in 2012, during which she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to both student achievement and fostering a supportive, inclusive school culture. Before her role at TAG Academy, she served as Assistant Principal, Instructional Coach, MTSS Specialist, and Special Education Teacher. Whether through improving academic achievement or creating intentional in and out-of-school exposure opportunities for her students, Principal Sithole knows that to move the needle, the strategy must include a holistic approach. Mrs. Sithole has prioritized creating systems and processes that centralize students. Through a cycle of data analysis and reflection to evaluate practices and impact, student proficiency levels have tripled and, in 2024, saw the highest proficiency levels in ELA, Math, and Science in the school’s history. In addition to her experience, Melanie’s educational background includes an Ed.S. in Special Education from the University of West Georgia, an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Kennesaw State University, and a B.S. from Bethune-Cookman University.

Sarah Treviño-Terronez

Frederick Funston Elementary
Chicago, IL

  • Sarah Trevino-Terronez is in her 20th year of serving the Chicago Public Schools, specializing in bilingual and dual-language education. She is a strong advocate for special education and has always strived to support underprivileged Latino communities as a professional educator and school leader. Sarah is honored to be the principal at Frederick Funston Elementary School, a role she has been privileged to serve since 2021. Sarah prioritizes creating a supportive environment for all students to thrive. She accomplishes this goal through her commitment to building strong relationships within her school community and has a proven track record of successful collaborations among parents, local businesses, and community organizations. Sarah was born and raised in Chicago and is a proud first-generation Mexican American. She received a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana. Sarah earned a Master's Degree in teaching from National Louis University while articipating in a residency with the Academy for Urban School Leadership. After several years of teaching, she pursued her principal endorsement and Master's Degree in educational leadership from Governors State University.

Jaron Trimble

Humphries ES
Atlanta, GA

  • Jaron Trimble currently serves as the principal of Humphries Elementary School, where he leads a staff of approximately 50 educators that serve approximately 280 students and their families. Mr. Trimble’s career in education began in 2005 as a teacher in the Dekalb County School System. He joined Atlanta Public Schools in 2009 where he has served as a teacher, instructional coach, and assistant principal. In 2018, Mr. Trimble joined the South Atlanta Cluster of schools as the assistant principal of Hutchinson Elementary School where he served until his appointment to Humphries Elementary School in 2021. Mr. Trimble is a tireless servant who simply wants the best for the students and families of Humphries Elementary School. Jaron is a proud son of metro Atlanta and graduated from Tri-Cities High School in East Point. He received his undergraduate degree from Morehouse College in Atlanta, Georgia, and has degrees from Keller Graduate School and Kennesaw State University. He is married with three sons and enjoys traveling and everything University of Georgia football.

Rick Wilson

Renaissance School of the Arts
New York

  • Rick Wilson is an accomplished educator with 22 years of dedicated service in the New York City School System. He began his career as a math teacher and has since progressed through various leadership roles, including Lead Teacher, Climate and Culture Specialist, Assistant Principal, Advanced Leadership Program for Aspiring Principals cohort member, and Principal of the Renaissance School of the Arts (since May 2022) As Principal, Rick has fostered a thriving school community by: Establishing clear systems and expectations: Ensuring consistency and alignment in student and staff expectations. Defining a shared vision and mission: Providing opportunities for all stakeholders to contribute their voices. Prioritizing professional growth: Empowering teachers through high-quality instruction, collaborative teams, and meaningful professional development. Fostering a supportive and inclusive environment: Cultivating a culture of teamwork, continuous learning, and social-emotional well-being. Rick's transformative leadership has resulted in increased student achievement, enhanced staff engagement, and a strengthened school culture. He is committed to developing future leaders and creating a lasting positive impact on the community of students, staff and families, he proudly serves.