May News

Can you tell us a little about your background and what led you to join New City Kids as the Center Director in Paterson?
My background is varied and extensive. I spent about 20 years in social services, holding leadership roles in county and municipal programs. After earning my MS in Education from Cairn University, I transitioned into teaching in 2006—first in a Christian school, then in public education, and later in early childhood education, including working with children with special needs …. In 2021, I began looking for new opportunities and found New City Kids on Indeed. I joined as Associate Director during COVID and stepped into the Center Director role in 2022. Since then, we’ve opened our new Mill Street site, and I’ve been honored to serve in this capacity. I’ve also served in ministry for over 30 years—I have a heart to serve and teach!

How long have you been with New City Kids, and what excites you most about leading the Paterson site?
On August 30th, it will be 4 years. What excites me most is positively impacting kids and teens from Kindergarten through 12th grade—imparting knowledge, sharing my faith, and contributing to their learning and growth. At New City Kids, I can freely share the “Good News,” which I couldn’t always do in public or private education. I take full advantage of this opportunity to point kids and families to Christ.

What does a typical week look like for you in your role as Center Director?
It’s multi-faceted and very detail-oriented. I handle administrative tasks like enrollment, rosters, tuition, reports, and Procare updates; coordinate events, licensing, curriculum, and supplies; manage parent and school communication; and lead outreach efforts. I also collaborate on special events and concerts. A large part of my time is spent communicating with parents, staff, schools, and agencies. Next year, I hope to introduce parent engagement activities and develop a Parent Council.

What do you think makes the Paterson center unique in its impact on youth and families?
Paterson is diverse and historic, and we’re able to serve children who may never have experienced music, Bible stories, or hands-on enrichment before. Our new location has helped us connect with several nearby charter schools, and we now walk students from four of them each week. We group kids by grade and tailor music classes accordingly. Our Drumline includes ASC students, teens, and staff, and we love finding new ways to support learning and creativity while introducing kids to Christ.

What’s something people might not realize about the work that goes into running a thriving New City Kids center?
There are a lot of moving parts. I’ve learned how to “turn on a dime,” stay flexible and patient, and apply strong communication and customer service skills. I’m constantly in conversation with parents, staff, schools, and teens to maintain high-quality programming because I am the first point of contact for ASC. Communication is key!

Can you share a memorable moment or breakthrough you’ve witnessed at the Paterson site that really stuck with you?
The question was asked: What is a disciple? In the Kindergarten and 1st grade class and a 1st grader answered, “A follower of Christ,” — so powerful and unexpected … my reaction was pure amazement! We use prayer models like “Five Finger Prayer,” “ACTS,” and “JOY,” and kids are voluntarily praying and learning about having a relationship with God. Watching these spiritual deposits take root is a blessing and an immeasurable gift.

How do you balance managing the day-to-day operations while staying connected to the heart of the mission?
I teach and supervise our PCCC class for Kindergarten and 1st grade. This age group needs structure, rest, and lots of love after a long school day. We work on homework, gather on the carpet, sing, learn sign language, pray, and reinforce lessons from school and the Bible. We even create gifts—like Mother’s Day crafts! We are “loving kids for change” and planting eternal seeds.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work to recharge?
Anything creative! I love photography and have exhibited my work in libraries across NJ and NY every year since 2017. I enjoy capturing God’s beauty in nature and architecture. Traveling gives me the opportunity to expand my collection and see more of God’s handiwork.

Do you have a favorite hobby or activity that helps you unwind after a busy day at the center?
I usually walk and feed my dog Cooper, attend Zoom meetings or Bible study, or put up/take down my photography exhibits. It’s not unwinding exactly, but it’s satisfying! I also enjoy watching Finding Your Roots and HGTV. I’m looking forward to adding my favorite gym class—Afro Caribbean Step—back into my routine this summer.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
The Apostle Paul. His conversion, mission trips, and unwavering commitment to spreading the Gospel—even through persecution—are powerful. I’d love to hear his story firsthand. I’d also love one more dinner with my mother, who passed away nine years ago. With her birthday and Mother’s Day this week, I miss her deeply and would cherish one more hug and would love to spend more time with her. She was an awesome Godly mother and I learned so much from her.

What’s one thing on your bucket list you’re determined to cross off someday?
One thing on my Bucket List is to visit the remaining states I have not traveled to thus far, which are around 15 states.  Although Hawaii is at the top of the list, I hope to travel to Vermont soon, which is the only Northeastern state I haven’t traveled to or driven through.  An optimistic goal is to visit every continent as well … even possibly Antatarica … 5 to go!

What’s the best piece of leadership or career advice you’ve ever received—and how has it shaped how you lead at New City Kids?
I had supervisors who believed in me, gave me space to grow, and pushed me to do more than I thought possible. I aim to lead with excellence, integrity, and professionalism—modeling the same standards I’d expect from someone I’d hire. I believe in teamwork and giving your all.

These final words sums it all up … Children … Teens … Parents … Staff … Community 

Workers … are always looking … therefore, we (I) have to …“lead by example” and “follow Christ’s example.”
In striving to lead in the best way possible … I remember and meditate on Bible verses such as Proverbs 3:5, 6 … Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit (acknowledge) Him, and He will make your paths straight.