(November 17, 2023) Superintendent Dr. Carmine Peluso is pleased to announce the principal appointments at the four new middle schools opening in the 2024-2025 school year as part of the District’s comprehensive school reconfiguration.
- Nakia Burrows, Principal, Middle School at the Charlotte Campus
- Stephanie Harris, Principal, Middle School at the Freddie Thomas Campus
- Wakili Moore, Principal, Middle School at the Jefferson Campus
- Moniek Silas-Lee, Principal, Middle School at 200 Genesee Street
The new middle schools will be focused on preparing students for high school academically and emotionally, with experienced leaders who will guide our students to bright futures. They officially begin their new duties on July 1, 2024, and will work to ready for the opening of their new schools, which will be named at a later date.
A graduate of Joseph C. Wilson Magnet High School, Ms. Burrows currently serves as the Principal of Northeast College Preparatory High School and was previously the Assistant Principal and Special Education Liaison there. Prior to taking on leadership service, she started her career as a school counselor at Northeast.
Ms. Burrows earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the State University of New York College at Brockport. She also earned two Master’s Degrees in School Counseling and Human Development and Urban Teaching and Leadership, both from the University of Rochester.
She brings a deep understanding of our students, families, and community, Ms. Burrows is poised to bring her experience and commitment to excellence to her new leadership role in the new middle school at the Charlotte Campus.
Ms. Harris has a unique perspective, having been a student, parent, and leader in our District. She is the current Principal of Franklin Lower School, where she has served for several years. Her career began as a math teacher at Charlotte High School, and she has since held various roles, including serving on the curriculum writing team, acting as an instructional math coach, and as an Assistant Principal at School No. 3 and Charlotte High School. Her journey also included taking on roles as a Network Team Accountability Leader and the Director of Mathematics.
Ms. Harris earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from the Rochester Institute of Technology, a Master’s Degree in Mathematics Education from Roberts Wesleyan University, and a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from St. John Fisher University.
She brings a wealth of experience, passion, and a profound commitment to education in her role as Principal and is ready to spearhead the opening of the new middle school at the Freddie Thomas Campus.
Currently serving as Principal at James Monroe Lower School, Mr. Moore brings invaluable experience to the District. He began his career in education at John Marshall High School and then at Greece Apollo Middle School. During his transition into leadership roles, Mr. Moore served as an Assistant Principal and later as Principal for eight years at Virgil I. Grissom School No. 7. In 2010, Mr. Moore served students and staff at Charlotte High School before establishing the Leadership Academy for Young Men.
Mr. Moore earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications from St. John Fisher University, a Master’s Degree and Certificate of Administration from Canisius College, and a Master’s Degree in Education from Nazareth University.
With a proven track record of leadership and dedication to education, Mr. Moore’s expertise will make a meaningful impact in his role at the new middle school at the Jefferson Campus.
Ms. Silas-Lee is a graduate of Joseph C. Wilson Magnet High School who began her career with the District 20 years ago as a teacher. She has served as a classroom teacher, math coach, and teacher mentor. Her administrative experience includes service as an educational consultant, dean of students at Young Women’s College Prep Charter School, and elementary Principal both in the West Irondequoit Central School District and at the Urban Choice Charter School. She currently serves as the Principal at Charles T. Lunsford School No. 19.
Ms. Silas-Lee earned a Bachelor of Science in Earth Science and a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration from the State University of New York College at Brockport. She also earned a Master of Science in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment from Walden University.
With her extensive education and administrative experience, Ms. Silas-Lee is well-positioned to lead the new middle school.
