Meet Hoboken's Elementary School Principals: Profiles In Education

Hoboken, NJ – How well do you know your child’s principal, Hoboken?

In preparation for the Kindergarten Visitation Days in February, the Hoboken Early Childhood Advisory Council recently shared information about the public school district’s four elementary school principals.

The Hoboken educators shared their views about Kindergarten, their years of experience as educators in the field, and the dates of the Kindergarten Visitation Days at their respective schools.

Sandra Rodriguez: Joseph F. Brandt School, Principal and Early Childhood Education Director

“My favorite thing about Kindergarten at the Joseph F. Brandt School is the thoughtful, informed, and innovative way in which we approach the teaching of young children. We encourage the research-based approach that informs us that young children learn best through play and discovery. We honor early childhood and ensure that we infuse robust instruction daily.

“I have worked for the Hoboken Public School District for 2 years and have 24 years of experience in the education field as a teacher, Vice Principal, Principal, and Early Childhood Education Director.”

The Brandt Kindergarten Visitation Day is February 17, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Joseph Vespignani: Salvatore R. Calabro School, Principal

“My favorite thing about Kindergarten at the Salvatore R. Calabro Elementary School is watching our students express a joy for learning while they grow academically and socially each day. Our students benefit from a smaller school community, and are exposed to meaningful learning opportunities aligned to their individual needs.

“This is my 3rd year serving as the principal of Calabro, and 7th year working in public school administration. I concurrently serve as the District Affirmative Action Officer.”

The Calabro Kindergarten Visitation Day is February 19, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Gerald Fitzhugh: Thomas G. Connors School, Principal

“My favorite thing about Kindergarten at the Thomas G. Connors Elementary School is how children are exposed to the academic and social components of school. Through organized play, as well as the academic core subjects, we are developing the whole child, not small components.

“I have been the Principal of the Thomas G. Connors Elementary School since 2012 (4 Years). An educator since 1999, I have taught in grades one, four, and five. An administrator since 2005, I have served as a vice principal (4.5 years), special assistant to the Regional Superintendent (1 year), and Principal (6 years).”

The Connors Kindergarten Visitation Day is February 18, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Martin Shannon: Wallace Elementary School, Principal

“My favorite thing about Kindergarten at the Wallace Elementary School is the growth and maturation of the students both academically and socially as the year progresses. Our teachers are charged with the greatest task of ensuring and instilling a passion for learning into the hearts and minds of all of our youngest and most precious learners.

“I am entering Year 1 of my Principalship. I have 4 years experience as a Vice Principal. I also served as the Director of Athletics for a short period of time. I have 17 years total in the field of education.”

The Wallace Kindergarten Visitation day is February 24, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Photo 1: Sandra Rodriguez

Photo 2: Joseph Vespignani

Photo 3: Gerald Fitzhugh

Photo 4: Martin Shannon

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