The Faculty…sharpening the tools!
Ultimately, the greatness of a school rests most clearly upon its faculty and staff. The Ellison School’s faculty and staff are the enduring heart, mind and soul of the school. Ellison teachers are very knowledgeable and respected in their subject areas and expert in the art and science of teaching. They are also exceptionally dedicated to the individual success and well-being of their students. In a small school in which every child is known by their first name, teachers provide every child with personal attention and guidance necessary for students to grow academically and personally. We invite you to read on to find out a bit about the Ellison family's faculty and staff.
MEET THE FACULTY AND STAFF OF THE ELLISON SCHOOL
School Administration:
Caroline Chapman, Head of School, Ext. 12
Caroline Chapman’s professional life came full circle upon her return as Head of School to Ellison, where her teaching career began almost 20 years ago. Caroline reunited with Ellison after serving as an Adjunct Professor at Rowan University and a Sixth through Eighth grade teacher at Dr. J.P. Cleary Middle School.
During her 15 years at Ellison, Mrs. Chapman taught history, geography, English, and literature for students in grades five through eight and worked as the Reading Specialist for grades preschool through eight. Caroline also served as Head Teacher with the responsibilities of student discipline, administration and supervision/observation of teachers.
Caroline is certified as a Supervisor and Reading Specialist, as well as in Secondary Social Studies, Secondary English, and Elementary Education. She is a member of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, International Reading Association and is a Fellow on the Teaching American History Institute. Her approach to education and administration is a perfect match for Ellison as it inspires confidence, self-reliance, responsibility, critical thinking, a respect for ethical and moral values, and a lifelong love of learning.
Caroline holds an MA in Reading Education from Rowan University and a BA in History from Hood College. She is currently pursuing an Ed.S. Degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from the Graduate School of Education and Human Development at The George Washington University. Mrs. Chapman lives in Vineland with her husband, Chris and sons, Caleb and Wyatt (Ellison students!).
Cynthia Basolis-Koons, Office Manager/Administrative Assistant, Ext. 10
Cynthia Basolis-Koons, is one of The Ellison School’s true treasures. Now in her 11th year at Ellison, Cynthia is also an alumni mom. Both of her children, Dominique (Class of 2007) and Velty (Class of 2009) went all the way through Ellison and are now excelling in high school. “I believe wholeheartedly in the educational foundation provided here,” says Cynthia. Seeing how well prepared my children were for high school added even more proof to what I already knew was true. There's simply no place like this school and the faculty and families who bring it to life.” Prior to joining Ellison, Mrs. Koons worked for Newcomb Medical Center for 20 years. She began as Benefits Coordinator and was promoted to Assistant Personnel Director and then to Manager of Compensation and Benefits. What's more, Mrs. Koons is a certified teacher with a degree from Duquesne University and graduate credits from Rowan University. She lives in Vineland with her two children and husband, Velton.
Mary Jane Kinkade, Director of Marketing & Development, Ext. 22
Since joining Ellison in 2007, Mrs. Mary Jane Kinkade has put her heart and soul into increasing awareness of our school and all it has to offer to area children, their families and the community as a whole. Prior to joining Ellison, Mary Jane worked for Kraft Foods where she was responsible for leading public relations, media relations and issues management for brands like Jell-O, Kool-Aid, Capri Sun, Cool Whip, Post, Baker's, Balance, and Altoids. Her career also took her to Delaware where she served as Press Secretary for Former Governor Michael N. Castle, and to Connecticut where she handled business communications for Praxair Inc. "Working here is a dream come true as I get to do the type of work I like the most for a school I love and truly believe in, says Mary Jane. I also get to see my three children meet life-long friends, have amazing experiences and receive the very best education possible."
Claire Piccini, Business Director, Ext. 11
After 35 years in the world of banking, Ellison's new Business Director knows her numbers! Her name is Claire Piccini and her job is to manage our school's finances and to help all Ellison families with any and all questions about tuition amounts, payments, SCRIP balances, and more. She's an absolute delight and is so happy to be here. "After so many years in banking, it's great to be back in Vineland and working for a school as wonderful as Ellison," says Claire. "I look forward to getting to know all of the students and their families." Claire earned her Associates Degree in Accounting from Cumberland County College and Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from Richard Stockton College.
Faculty:
Mrs. Trish Harvie, Lower School Head and Third Grade Teacher, Ext. 16, tharvie@ellisonschool.org
A little known fact about Mrs. Trish Harvie is that she once worked as a college recruiter, Human Resources Manager and provided Drug & Alcohol counseling. Her entree into the world of education was with Gloucester County Special Services where she taught basic skills and provided the extra help needed for her students to succeed. "Ellison was one of the schools I was assigned to, so I got a first-hand look at how special it was," says Trish. "When the Third Grade teaching position opened up, I jumped at the chance to come aboard full time." One look at her students' smiling faces and it's quite clear that they are glad. Now in her fourth year at Ellison, Trish simply loves teaching Third Grade. "I love the age," she says. "Third graders are fun to teach, eager to learn and always keep me smiling." Trish holds a Bachelor's Degree from The College of New Jersey and is a certified teacher.
Mrs. Anne Carson, Upper School Head and Community Technology and Library Studies Teacher, Ext. 25, acarson@ellisonschool.org.
Mrs. Anne Carson is in her second year at Ellison and is a whiz with words – those spoken, written and found online. Anne holds a BA Degree in creative writing and literature from Wheaton College. She is also certified in Elementary Education and is a Microsoft Master Instructor. “I sought out a position at Ellison because I wanted to work in a place that could match my enthusiasm for the possible,” says Anne. “The beautiful facility here is surpassed only by my fellow teachers, the staff, students and families. Anne prides herself in helping her students to fully understand and incorporate technology into all facets of their lives.
Mrs. Fran Laferty, Early Learning Head and Teacher PK4, Ext. 31, flaferty@ellisonschool.org
When it comes to growing the bright and curious minds of Ellison's precious 4-year-olds, no one does it quite like Mrs. Fran Laferty. Beloved by all who pass through her classroom, Fran takes great care in preparing each of her students for Kindergarten and beyond -- both academically and socially. And, it shows! This year's PreK4 class is already reading and can even write sentences. They can also add, love computer class and are happy and eager to learn. Fran joined Ellison ten years ago. "My favorite part of teaching at Ellison is seeing the growth of my class from September to June," says Fran. "It's very rewarding." Fran is a graduate of Monmouth College where she earned a B.S. Degree in Elementary Education and a special certificate in Preschool.
Ms. Colleen Black, Preschool 3 Teacher, Ext. 32, cblack@ellisonschool.org
“Bubbly” doesn’t even begin to describe Ms. Colleen Black’s personality when she’s around her beloved 3s. Prior to joining Ellison, Colleen worked for Washington Township schools as a speech therapist with children in Preschool through Middle School. She is a graduate of Richard Stockton College of New Jersey and has earned 33 credits toward her Master’s Degree. “I enjoy using my speech, language and sign language skills to create lessons that make learning fun for the children,” says Colleen. “I love that my students are like little sponges eager to soak up everything around them.” In addition to teaching, Colleen enjoys spending time with her family, going to the beach, photography, kickboxing class, reading, and cheering on the Phillies and Flyers!
Mrs. Helen Taylor (r), Assistant Teacher, PK3, Ext. 32, htaylor@ellisonschool.org
Found in our Preschool 3 classroom, Helen is always smiling as she travels through the school with Ellison's youngest students in tow. Mrs. Taylor joined us in 2006, and says that what keeps her here is her love for the children and co-workers. Mrs. Taylor, grandmother to an Ellison third grader, came aboard after 20 years with the U.S. Postal Service. "I did it all," she says, "because I wanted to learn everything I could." She instills that same love of learning in her students at Ellison.
Mrs. Kelly Kenna, Teacher, Toddlers
kkenna@ellisonschool.org
While new to Ellison’s teaching staff, Mrs. Kenna is no stranger to our school. All three of her children attend Ellison and Mrs. Kenna says she couldn’t imagine them anywhere else.
Mrs. Kenna comes to Ellison after more than 10 years of teaching children ranging in age from two to 18. After graduating from Rowan University, she taught at Vineland High School and at Charles L. Spragg Elementary School in Egg Harbor City. She also developed a special program just for toddler at the All That Jazz Dance and Gymnastics Studio in South Philadelphia, where Mrs. Kenna spends her spare time!
Mrs. Kelly DeCicco, Teacher, Toddlers
kdecicco@ellisonschool.org
Kelly DeCicco is a Toddler program pioneer as she taught and cared for our first 15 toddlers as part of Ellison’s Little Explorers summer camp. All summer Ms. Kelly watched her “babies” grow and mature as they learned to play together, share toys (well, most of the time!), explore the baby pool, tackle balls and even hockey sticks, make crafts, read stories, and so much more.
Mrs. DeCicco is a graduate of Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA, where she earned a Bachelors of Science degree with a concentration in Family and Human Development. Prior to joining Ellison, Mrs. DeCicco taught both Preschool and First Grade.
Mrs. Gerry Hudgins, Kindergarten Teacher, Ext. 28, ghudgins@ellisonschool.org
She says she's on vacation when she comes to work -- and if you visit her classroom it often looks that way as Mrs. Gerry Hudgins and her Kindergarteners have more fun learning than they could ever have imagined. "We are taking advantage of our small class size by doing as many exciting things as we can," says Gerry. She first learned of Ellison when her granddaughter was a student here. "After retiring from 25 years in public education, I just knew Ellison was the place for me," she says. Gerry began her career at Ellison in 2002. She's a strong believer in the importance of socialization, as well as academics at this age and works hard to find the perfect balance. She holds a Bachelor's of Science Degree in Sociology and is a certified teacher.
Mrs. Rachel (Engle) Howgate, First Grade Teacher, Ext. 29, rengle@ellisonschool.org
First Grade Teacher, Mrs. Rachel Howgate says she has the best class ever, but if you ask her students, they’ll without a doubt tell you that it’s Mrs. Howgate who’s the best. Rachel holds a Bachelor’s of Arts Degrees in Elementary Education and Psychology from Rowan University and is a certified teacher. “My favorite part of working at Ellison is our small class sizes,” says Rachel. “There is so much more you can do with your students, plus you get to know each one very well.” When she’s not at school, the newly married Mrs. Howgate enjoys spending time with friends and family.
Ms. Kristin Charlson, Second Grade Teacher, Ext. 14, kcharlson@ellisonschool.org
When it comes to energy and enthusiasm, Ms. Kristin Charlson has a seemingly endless supply. She’s a certified personal trainer, Ellison mom and exceptional teacher. Kristin began her Ellison career as the school’s part-time Enrichment teacher, before coming on board full time. “I am thrilled to be a full-time member of the Ellison staff,” says Kristin. “It’s an honor to be part of such a talented team of teachers and excellent school.” Kristin has 16 years of experience working with students in Preschool through High School. In addition to her work at Ellison, Kristin has held teaching positions in China and Taiwan. She is a graduate of Glassboro State College (Rowan University) and is a certified teacher.
Mrs. Cindi Smith, Fourth Grade Teacher, Ext. 18, csmith@ellisonschool.org
While she claims to be the "old timer" at Ellison, Mrs. Cindi Smith is anything but. She is high energy and works hard to prepare her Fourth Grade students for Upper School. In addition to core academics, Cindi believes in teaching her students to respect the environment. She is well known for her award-winning recycling projects! She also helps inspire her students to help others by weaving service learning activities into her lesson plans. "It's important for kids to realize that they can truly make a difference," says Cindi. "If they enjoy it at 10, my hope is that service will become a lifelong love." Each year, Cindi’s class picks vegetables for people in need, entertains the residents of Millville's Maurice House, organizes food drives, and more. In recognition of her efforts, Cindi was named one Vineland’s 2010 Hometown Heroes, a contest sponsored by The Grapevine newspaper. "Cindi holds a Bachelor's of Science degree from Juniata College in Huntingdon, PA.
Mrs. Cheryl Weinberg, 5th Grade Advisor; Language Arts; History -- Ext. 17, cweinberg@ellisonschool.org
Known for her love of poetry and literature, Mrs. Cheryl Weinberg is both an Ellison teacher and alumni mom. While she began teaching at Ellison only eight years ago, the school has been a central part of her life since her daughter began Preschool here in 1981, followed by her son in 1984. "As a young mother, I was looking for a safe, nurturing and welcoming environment, and Ellison had it all," says Cheryl. "The same holds true from a teacher's perspective, as I couldn't be happier here. Small classes allow for more intimate teaching and interaction. We focus a lot on writing, which makes small groups ideal." Cheryl earned a B.A. in English from Long Island University and spent many years teaching in the public school system. "While my years in public school were rewarding, there's simply no place quite like Ellison," she says. "Students here receive a quality education and an appreciation for learning from teachers who work together to encourage self-confidence in all they do."
Mrs. Sarah King, Sixth Grade Advisor, Upper School Science Teacher, Ext. 15, sking@ellisonschool.org
Mrs. Sarah King’s love for science definitely shows in the way she brings it to life for her student. Sarah first became interested in science when she was in school and studying marine science and the environment. She went on to become a research scientist for Rutgers University, where her focus was on studying various types of fish and other marine life. She knew she loved working with children which is what led her to Ellison in 2007. “My favorite part of teaching at Ellison is the opportunity to interact with such great children,” says Sarah. “I work very hard to make learning science fun and it seems to be working as my students get as excited as I do every time we begin a new project!” Sarah earned a Bachelor's of Science Degree from Cook College at Rutgers University and a Masters in Marine Resource Management from Oregon State University.
Mrs. Jeanne Hynes, Seventh Grade Advisor and Mathematics Coordinator and Teacher, Ext. 19, jhynes@ellisonschool.org
After 16 years of teaching math at Ellison, most everyone knows Mrs. Jeanne Hynes – or at least they think they do. But did you know that she loves boogie boarding in Ocean City and is a whiz at crossword puzzles? Jeanne joined Ellison after teaching high school math for 14 years. Today, she makes math fun as she brings it to life for Ellison’s Upper School students. “Our small classes enable us to get to know the kids in a way that’s difficult in many larger schools,” says Jeanne. “And once to get to know them, you’re hooked!” Mrs. Hynes prides herself in dispelling all fear of math. “Everyone can do it,” she says, “you just can’t be afraid.”
Mr. Wes Jarrell, Eighth Grade Advisor; Literature; History – Ext. 20, wjarrell@ellisonschool.org
Eighth Grade teacher, Wes Jarrell has a reputation for being tough, having high expectations, and giving lots of homework. But then, he also uses a ping-pong table as a "conference center" and is beloved by every student who crosses his path. Mr. J joined Ellison in 1992, and except for a tour of duty (as part of the Army Reserves) in the Middle East, he never left. According to Mr. J his students are what keep him at Ellison. "I enjoy seeing students grow intellectually," says Mr. J. "They seldom see it themselves. For example, they may not recognize an improvement in their reasoning skills, or see their confidence grow as they carry themselves during a debate, but I see it." Mr. J takes pride in never talking down to his students. "I take their interests seriously and don't judge them for their failings because we all have weaknesses," he says. "I also try not to take myself too seriously which can sometimes lead to a funny story or two." Mr. J looks forward to traveling to Washington with his Eighth Grade students each year. What he enjoys the most, though, is when former students return for a visit -- and share news of their success. Mr. J is a graduate of Rutgers University and spent 22 years in the Army Reserves.
Mrs. Michelle Okoniewski Amsler, Art Teacher, Ext. 27, mamsler@ellisonschool.org
Mrs. Michelle Okoniewski Amsler, Ellison’s very own in-house artist and masterpiece maker, holds a Bachelor’s Degree in art from Daemen College and a Masters Degree in Sculpture from The University of Pennsylvania. Prior to joining Ellison, Michelle taught at Gladwyne Montessori School in Gladwyne PA and Lansdowne Friends School. She also worked as a studio art teacher at the Philadelphia Museum of Art. As Art Teacher at Ellison, Michelle’s main objective is to teach her students to take their own ideas and observations seriously and to learn to express themselves visually through the arts.
Ms. Jillian D’Arcangelo, Spanish Teacher, Ext. 30, jdarcangelo@ellisonschool.org
Ms. Jillian D’Arcangelo (Ms. D’Arc for short) is Ellison’s own Spanish-speaking señorita and simply sensational. Now in her second year at Ellison, Jillian earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish Education from Shippensburg University. While studying at Shippensburg, Jillian perfected her Spanish-speaking skills abroad in Costa Rica. She’s now putting them to use at Ellison. “I love getting to know all of the students,” says Jillian. “They make teaching very rewarding as they seem to be soaking up Spanish at a record pace and having a good time along the way.” When she’s not at work, Jillian loves to watch and play sports, especially volleyball and basketball.
Christine Laquintano, Music Teacher, Ext. 26, claquintano@ellisonschool.org
Mrs. Christine Laquintano’s favorite part of teaching music is seeing the pure joy that it brings to children. In addition to being a certified teacher, Mrs. Laquintano’s background includes many years of organ and choral conducting. She has worked with a wide variety of children, youth and adult choirs, and her training includes Montessori certification. Her goals at Ellison include connecting music to other areas of the curriculum, including art, history, literature, and science. “My hope is that children will leave Ellison with an appreciation for all types of music and a better understanding of theory and analysis,” says Christine. “Music has and continues to add so much to my life. I wish the same for all of my students.”
Mr. Michael Mayhew, Athletic Director/Physical Education and Health Teacher, Ext. 13, mmayhew@ellisonschool.org
When the time came to make a career choice, Mr. Michael Mayhew followed in his mother’s footsteps and became a teacher. In his second year at Ellison, Mike brings physical education to a whole new level as he introduces students as young as two years old to hockey, basketball, badminton, volleyball, relay races, obstacle courses, baseball, kickball, soccer, and games galore! And, when it comes to Mike, he literally “rocks” gym class as he often teaches to the tunes of modern-day music. “I want my students to have as much fun as they can while learning the importance of health and fitness,” says Mike. “Along the way, I try to positively reinforce key values as they grow into young men and women.” Mike is a certified teacher and graduate of West Chester University.
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