Join CommonBondz for a discussion on racism in education with Andrew Bell Sr., Superintendent of the Woodbury City Public School District (New Jersey) and Anna Shurak, Executive Director of Teach For America Greater Philadelphia.
Andrew Bell Sr. began his teaching career in Camden in September 1998, and remained in that district for twenty-two school years. He taught in the classroom for ten years before moving to administration for the last twelve. Mr. Bell has held the roles of Vice Principal, Principal, Chief School Support Officer, Chief Academic Officer, and Chief Strategy Officer. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise as the current Superintendent of Woodbury City Public Schools in Woodbury New Jersey. As a former Teacher, K-8 Principal, and Chief Academic Officer, Andrew is genuine leader who has led major change with unprecedented results. He is a graduate of Morgan State University, and holds advanced degrees from Wilmington State University and Relay School of Education. Andrew Bell has over 25 years of experience in education. He is a visionary leader who is committed to excellence in all that he does. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his children, Zoe and Andrew Jr., and wife, Ayanna, as well as fishing and following the 76ers.
Anna Shurak serves as Executive Director of Teach For America Philadelphia. Teach for America recruits, trains and supports a diverse network of teachers and leaders dedicated to expanding access and opportunity for Children. We currently serve have 1600 members in Philadelphia, and 10% of the city’s principals are Teach for America alum, serving 55,000 students. Previously, Anna worked in Camden City School District as Chief School Support Officer of High School for Camden City Schools. In this role Anna supported, managed and developed High School Principals, Leadership Teams and systems in order to best serve students and ensure preparedness for college and careers. While in this role, student achievement doubled in math and reading, graduation rates improved by nearly 20% accompanied by substantial growth in college acceptance and matriculation. Anna has served in many roles throughout her career including Teacher, Instructional Coach, Assistant Principal, Principal and District Official in Philadelphia and Camden. Anna is an award winning educator receiving the Young Women’s Leadership Network Blue Ribbon Teaching Award for Excellence in All Girls’ Education in 2007-2008 and the Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Distinguished High School Educator Award in 2008-2009. Anna is a Teach For America alumna and former School Systems Leadership Fellow and participant of the KIPP Leadership Design Fellowship and Relay/Uncommon Leverage Leadership Institute. Anna holds a B.A in Political Science and Policy from Indiana University, Master’s of Education and Educational Administration from St. Joseph’s University. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her two daughters Tova and Mazzi, husband Jason, family and friends.