Atlantic City School Leaders Set Direction at Annual Administrator’s Institute

The Atlantic City Public School District held its annual Administrator’s Institute from August 18–21, 2025, at Atlantic City High School to prepare school leaders for the 2025–2026 academic year.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. La’Quetta S. Small emphasized that the four-day program was a vital opportunity to establish priorities for students, families, and educators. Principals, vice principals, directors, the business administrator, and the assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction attended sessions on state mandates, curriculum delivery, and district policies. Teacher coordinators also presented departmental updates.

Dr. Small opened the Institute by introducing the district’s new motto, “Moving with Purpose,” and charted direction based on Stephen Covey’s “7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Each school was tasked with adopting one of the habits and preparing a motivational presentation for the Fall Convocation.

Sessions throughout the week covered a wide range of priorities. Business Administrator Tina Trueba shared updates on purchasing, travel, grants, and health benefits, while Director of Operations Atiba N. Rose Sr. and Coordinator of Public Safety Ernest Jubilee outlined plans for school safety and dedicated police officers at each school.

Director of Human Resources Diane Saunders reviewed state evaluation requirements and policies on attendance and sexual harassment. She and Dr. Small also recognized administrators with perfect attendance, highlighting the dedication of school leaders such as Jodi Burroughs, Chris Ford, Jason Grimes, Nicole Israel, Shontai Nicholson, Cornelio Sabio, Samantha Sickler, Kendall Williams, and Erica Woody.

Engagement and collaboration were also at the forefront. Director of Athletics Chris Ford and Elementary Sports Coordinator Jason Lantz hosted a team-building exercise called Trash Can Trivia, which challenged administrators with questions about Atlantic City High School athletics.

The Institute also focused on instructional goals. Director of Special Assessments and Special Projects Michael Bird presented updates on digital learning, Title I programs, and Parent Centers. Director of Special Education and Student Services Tracy-Marie Moody led case studies on behavioral safety, stressing the importance of proper training.

To close the Institute, Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction Dr. Lakecia Hyman introduced the 2025–2026 curriculum rollout. She emphasized SMART goals in English Language Arts and mathematics while reinforcing the importance of parent partnerships to prevent student retention.

Dr. Small concluded that the Administrator’s Institute fostered preparation and collaboration, ensuring schools would be ready to provide effective instruction. “It’s important for the Atlantic City Public Schools to establish and maintain highly effective schools,” she said.

The first day for staff was scheduled for September 2, 2025, followed by the Fall Convocation on September 3. Students were set to return on September 4, 2025, marking the start of a year guided by strategy, purpose, and commitment.

‍

Photo Credit: Mark Tyler | Atlantic City Public Schools