New Principal Wants Students to be Lifelong Learners

Jose Celis understands that although the practice and methodology of teaching has changes dramatically in recent years, especially in the Garden State, the mission of teachers remains the same.

“We still have a responsibility to develop student skills and enhance our instruction methods to get children to become lifelong learners,” Celis said. “Students need to be inspired to pursue their dreams and contribute to their local community and globally too.”

As the new principal of Pines Lake Elementary, it is Celis’ job to not only inspire his students, but his teachers as well.

“The hardest thing about teaching, I think it’s always been the hardest, is ensuring that every teacher learns and grows along with the students,” Celis said. “That goes along with helping the highest achieving students who need to be inspired to those who lag a little bit behind.”

Celis is one of four new principals to take the reigns this academic year. Wayne Valley High School and Theunis Dey and Randall Carter elementary schools also have new principals.

Working in Wayne is somewhat of a homecoming for Celis. He grew up in Allendale. A graduate of Wheaton College in Illinois, and Northern Illinois University, Celis has two master’s degrees: one in Bible and Theology, the other in Educational Leadership.

Celis, a married father of two children, was assistant middle school principal for two years and then was principal at Mark Twain Elementary School for five years before coming to Pines Lake.

Celis said he was immediately impressed with the vision Superintendent Ray Gonzalez has for the district.

“He sees so much potential here. Education has been going through so many changes and many new initiatives have been introduced,” Celis said. “I know the district had a good reputation but then I realized how strong the Pines Lake community is. The teachers enjoy collaborating with the community and the people enjoy partnering with the school to ensure the students receive the best education possible.”

— Have a question or news tip? Contact editor Daniel Hubbard at Daniel.Hubbard@patch.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter. For news straight to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter.