A Lifelong Educator, Leader, and Advocate for Trenton's Youth
A proud graduate of Trenton Central High School and a dedicated educator with more than three decades of service, Addie’s life has been about giving back to the very community that raised her.
School Days in Trenton
Addie attended Trenton Public Schools from kindergarten through high school, beginning at Junior High School #5 and graduating from TCHS in 1974. Throughout her academic journey, several educators made a lasting impression, including Evelyn Green, Ellen Williams, and Daymond Turner, Jr., who challenged her, inspired her, and helped her believe in her potential.
One of her favorite school memories is hosting “Speak Up!,” a student radio program on WBUD. That early experience in public speaking and presentation sparked confidence and creativity that would serve her throughout life.
After graduating, Addie felt well-prepared for college and grateful for the foundation her TPS education gave her. She recently celebrated her 50th high school reunion with classmates and lifelong friends.
A Passion for Learning and Leading
Addie earned her B.S. in Secondary Education from Seton Hall University in 1978, followed by a Master’s in Counseling and Personnel Services in 1998 and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership in 2002, both from The College of New Jersey.
As a student, she gravitated toward History and English and developed essential skills like writing, speaking, critical thinking, and organization. She also gained valuable life skills such as sewing and cooking, which were once staples of the curriculum.
37 Years of Impact in Education
Addie’s career in Trenton Public Schools spanned an impressive 37 years. She began as a Basic Skills Reading teacher, transitioned to teaching Social Studies for 17 years, and later served as a reform facilitator, vice principal, and principal at multiple schools, including Monument, Kilmer, Junior One, Holland Middle, PJ Hill, Dunn Middle, and ultimately Trenton High West.
After retiring from her formal role, Addie didn’t stop serving. She joined the Trenton Board of Education, where she has been a vocal leader since 2017. She has chaired both the Operations and Teaching & Learning Committees and led as Board President through the pandemic and several leadership transitions.
Wisdom for the Next Generation
Addie’s advice for future educators:
“Be prepared to adapt. Keep learning. Love what you do, and above all, love kids. Have a plan, but also be open to change.”
To students, she says:
“Take advantage of every opportunity your school offers. Don’t limit yourself. Stay open to new experiences and be ready to work hard. Preparation is everything.”
Her biggest real-world lesson:
“Let your work speak for you. In education, the reward is often delayed, but it shows up in the lives and success of your students.”
Words to Live By
“There’s no one-size-fits-all path to success, but every student deserves the chance to find theirs. I feel blessed to have had a career where I could pour into others, and nothing brings me more joy than celebrating the success of former students.”