I am excited to join the HMHS community as the Dean of Student Life this year, my 22nd year in education. 

I began my career as a biology teacher in Old Bridge, New Jersey, before returning to my South Jersey roots and spending 18 years at Collingswood High School (CHS). During that time, I taught science, served as an instructional coach, advised Student Council, and coached wrestling before transitioning into administration. For the past four years, I served as an Assistant Principal at CHS.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Biology from Boston University and hold master’s degrees in Teaching and Instructional Technology from The College of New Jersey and Saint Joseph’s University. I completed my administrative certification through the NJ EXCEL program in partnership with NJPSA (NJ Principals and Supervisors Association) and FEA (Foundation for Educational Administration).

As an educator and school leader, I am committed to creating supportive, inclusive environments where students can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. I am especially passionate about elevating student voice, strengthening school culture, and building systems that ensure every student feels seen, valued, and supported.

I live locally with my wife, a fellow educator, and our three children, one of whom is a proud HMHS graduate. Outside of school, I enjoy running, spending time outdoors, and cheering on the Boston Red Sox (I was born into it, I still have plenty of love for our local Philly teams!).

Greetings!

It is my pleasure to serve as the Director of Facilities for the Haddonfield School District. I am proud to work with our staff and administration to provide a safe and comfortable learning environment for our students, staff, and the community.

I joined the Haddonfield team in 2007, beginning my career as a maintenance technician before being appointed to my current role. With over 32 years of experience in facilities and maintenance, I bring a deep passion and expertise to my work. I hold a Certified Educational Facilities Manager (CEFM) license from Rutgers University, a credential that reflects my commitment to upholding the highest standards in the field. As a school taxpayer, husband, and father, I am personally dedicated to creating an environment that I would want for my own children, along with providing the quality of service I would expect from school administrators.

I am actively involved in professional organizations to demonstrate my leadership and commitment to the field. I currently serve as the secretary for the State of New Jersey School Buildings and Grounds Association and as the president of its Camden Gloucester chapter. I am also a member of the New Jersey Association of Designated Persons. I continuously attend educational seminars to remain current on industry issues and to ensure our facilities comply with all state regulations.

As the Director of Technology for Haddonfield School District since 2008, I lead a four-person team focused on ensuring all devices and systems run efficiently for staff, students, and parents. This role is supported by over 11 years of prior educational technology experience across more than 30 New Jersey districts. I hold a Rutgers Computer Science degree and Microsoft MCSA/MCSE certifications, and our department is currently focused on actively maintaining the 1:1 Chromebook program and continually strengthening our cybersecurity posture.

As the Business Administrator for the Haddonfield School District, I oversee the financial health and operational efficiency of the entire organization.

I bring a wealth of financial expertise to the district, holding a degree in Accounting from Rutgers University and an MBA from Rowan University. Before joining Haddonfield in 2017, I served as a senior accountant, specializing in auditing municipalities, school districts, and other local government entities.

In this role, I manage all essential functions, including:

• Financial Management: Planning the annual budget, managing accounting, payroll, and purchasing.
• Operations: Supervising district transportation, food services, and facility maintenance.
• Board Support: Assisting the Board of Education with agendas, meeting minutes, and the annual state-mandated audit.

While my work is primarily behind the scenes, every decision I make is centered on supporting student success and well-being. I am committed to fostering an efficient work environment built on open communication and collaboration.

I live in Voorhees with my wife, two sons, and our dog.

“The purpose of education is to turn mirrors into windows.”  – Sydney J. Harris

While it’s easy to focus on what’s happening within our own bubble, education expands our view.  It transforms reflection into perspective. Through the window of learning, we see beyond ourselves and are better equipped to understand and solve the challenges that surround us. Only then can we use what we know to make the world a better place.

As a philomath who believes deeply that education is power, I earned a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from The College of William & Mary, a Master of Arts in Spanish Literature from Temple University, and a Master of Arts in School Administration from Rowan University.  

My professional journey began as a middle school Spanish teacher and later as a teacher of multilingual learners. In over 18 years in the classroom, I taught students from kindergarten through twelfth grade, gaining a comprehensive understanding of curriculum, instruction, and student development. This experience – and a desire to impact more lives – naturally led me into school leadership.

In 2015, I began my administrative career as Vice Principal at Timber Creek Regional High School in Erial, New Jersey, before advancing to central administration within the Black Horse Pike Regional School District. There I held the positions of Supervisor of Teaching and Learning and Supervisor of ELL and Student Success Coaches. In 2022, I was honored to be appointed Principal of J. Fithian Tatem Elementary School here in Haddonfield.

With more than a decade of administrative experience, I am an instructional leader committed to fostering a collaborative school culture that emphasizes academic rigor, professional growth, and equitable outcomes for all students. My leadership philosophy centers on empowering educators and ensuring that every learner is supported in achieving their fullest potential.

Grounded in the belief that “intelligence plus character is the goal of true education,” I proudly champion Tatem Tiger P.R.I.D.E. — Persevere, Respect, Include, Dream, Excel. By cultivating these core values, we nurture stronger academic performance, social-emotional growth, and lifelong success.

Together, we will watch your children bloom and grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

Hello Central School Cheetahs!

My name is Shannon Simkus, and I am honored to serve as the principal of Central Elementary School. Every single day, I wake up grateful to come to work — a place filled with energy, curiosity, laughter, and learning. With four children of my own at home and so many “school kids” here at Central, I truly feel surrounded by the joy of watching children grow, change, learn, and make progress every day.

The best part of my day is being in classrooms — watching, listening, and learning alongside our students and teachers. I am incredibly proud to be a Central School Cheetah, and even prouder of our dedicated staff who care deeply about our school community and every child’s learning journey.

My Philosophy and Purpose

At Central, our mission is simple: Every child is safe, every child is learning.
Children cannot learn until they feel safe — and safety includes not just the physical but also the emotional and psychological well-being of our students. Once students feel secure, we can support their growth in academics, social-emotional learning, and in developing the character and confidence to be positive, contributing members of society.

As an instructional leader, I am passionate about individualized learning—meeting students where they are, challenging them to reach their potential, and supporting them every step of the way. Our classrooms are joyful, engaging, and predictable spaces where all students can thrive and see themselves as capable learners.

My philosophy is grounded in grace, love, and growth:

• All students can learn.
• Every day is a fresh start for every child and adult.
• We are all here to help students become a better version of themselves each day.

When students leave Central for middle school, my goal is that they carry with them the tools to problem-solve, make good choices, reflect when needed, and maintain their love for learning and life.

Community and Collaboration

Our school is student-centered, and we believe that strong schools are built through collaboration among all stakeholders — students, staff, families and the community. A great example of this is when our students initiated the idea to change our mascot. Together, students, parents and staff discussed, voted and proudly chose the Cheetah—a symbol of pride, energy, and belonging for our entire school family.

I am deeply proud of our staff at Central—they are the best and brightest, bringing balance, creativity, and heart to everything they do. We work together to ensure every student feels seen, valued, and loved.

Our school celebrates and appreciates diversity, creating a welcoming environment where everyone can be their authentic selves. We recognize that our differences make us stronger, and we take pride in creating spaces where every child and adult feels a sense of belonging.

A Community I’m Proud to Call Home

I love this community so much that I chose to make it my family’s home. I wanted my own children to experience the warmth, opportunities and excellence that this town and its schools provide. Central is more than a school: it’s a family.

Whether I’m wearing my cheetah-print shoes or cheering on our students, my passion is always the same: to bring students, staff and families together in a community built on love, learning and belonging.

Thank you for being a part of our Central School family where every day is a new opportunity to learn, grow and shine. Together, we are building a community where every child is safe, loved, challenged and supported to reach their fullest potential.

With pride and gratitude,
Shannon Simkus

I earned my bachelor’s degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a master’s degree from Montclair State University. I began my career as a special education teacher for Newark Public Schools, an experience I found both challenging and deeply rewarding. After transitioning from the classroom, I served in administrative roles from 2015 to 2022 when I proudly became the Assistant Principal of Haddonfield Middle School. Known for my open-door approach, I am committed to making sure students and staff always feel supported and heard. 

My educational philosophy is grounded in the belief that all students can learn and achieve at high levels when provided with the support and instruction necessary to reach their full potential. I view learning as a process rather than a race, and I am committed to creating a school culture where effort, reflection, and perseverance are valued as much as final outcomes.  A growth mindset is central to this philosophy. Students are encouraged to see challenges as opportunities, mistakes as essential steps in learning, and feedback as a tool for improvement.  The goal is to develop confident, resilient learners who take ownership of their growth, advocate for their needs, and understand that success is built through persistence, reflection, and purposeful practice.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, and I love being outdoors exploring new trails. When I’m not outside, I enjoy watching movies and cheering on the New York Yankees (my apologies to any Philly fans).

As principal of Haddonfield Middle School, I bring over 25 years of educational experience and a deep personal connection to the HMS community. With several nieces, nephews, and my own children among HMS alumni, I understand firsthand the outstanding educational and extracurricular opportunities the school provides. My goal is to honor that tradition of excellence while continuing to move HMS forward — enhancing programs, improving operations, and preparing every student for future success.

I hold a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Saint Joseph’s University and a second Bachelor of Science in Education from Stockton University. I earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Rowan University in 2010. My career began as a paraprofessional and special education teacher in the Upper Township School District where I gained valuable experience supporting students in a variety of learning environments. During 15 years at Delran Middle School, I taught seventh-grade mathematics and was honored as the school’s 2013 Teacher of the Year. I later served as assistant principal and principal at Delran Middle School where I focused on curriculum development, student engagement and staff collaboration

At Haddonfield Middle School, I am dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment where students thrive academically, socially and emotionally. I recognize that the middle school years are a time of growth and self-discovery, and I am committed to helping students develop confidence, empathy, and a love of learning while continuing the Haddonfield tradition of excellence.

A graduate of Rutgers University, I earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Cincinnati. Over the years, I’ve served as both a Supervisor of Mathematics and Science, an Assistant Principal, and a high school math teacher. With these experiences as an educator and school leader, I have become more and more passionate about helping students and teachers reach their full potential. I love creating learning environments where curiosity, collaboration, and growth thrive.

Outside of work, I’m an avid reader and started a local book club to share that love of reading with others. I’m also a huge sports fan, especially when it comes to the Eagles! I live locally with my fiancé, our son, and our cute little dog.  I truly enjoy being part of this community both personally and professionally.

I am excited and proud to continue my growth and practice at Haddonfield Memorial High School, now entering my ninth year in the district and continuing to serve as principal. It is a privilege to work alongside our dedicated staff, supportive families, and outstanding students who make Haddonfield such a special place to learn and grow.

As both an educator and a parent, Haddonfield holds a special place in my heart. My daughter is a proud graduate of HMHS and my second daughter has embarked on her senior year, so I have experienced firsthand the exceptional education and profound sense of community that define our school. Outside of school, I love spending time with my family and our dogs who keep us active and smiling.

Prior to joining the Haddonfield community, I served as the Director of Special Services at Clearview Regional High School in Mullica Hill. I first joined Haddonfield in 2017-18 as the Dean of Students, which provided a valuable opportunity to learn the culture and operations of both the school and the district. Those experiences continue to shape my work and my commitment to supporting our students and staff.

I remain deeply committed to supporting students in all aspects of their high school experience. I believe in collaboration and communication, and I value every opportunity to connect with families and students. I look forward to continuing our shared work of developing global citizens, leaders, and independent adults.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education specializing in Reading from West Chester University and a master’s degree in Special Education from Arcadia University. I later completed advanced graduate study in Principal Preparation at Rowan University. I began my career in Haddonfield in 2000 as a special education teacher at Elizabeth Haddon Elementary School where I worked with students in grades K-5 in both the resource center and in inclusive settings. 

In 2013, I transitioned to the role of Language Arts Specialist at Elizabeth Haddon Elementary School, serving until 2023. I supported K-5 students as they developed foundational literacy skills as well as higher-level reading comprehension and writing expression. During that time I was named “Educator of the Year” for the 2021-2022 school year. I also served as the fifth-grade team facilitator, leading collaborative work across the district’s three elementary schools. In 2023, I joined the district’s central office team as K-12 Content-Area Supervisor for English Language Arts and Social Studies.

I am passionate about fostering collaboration and building strong professional relationships. I believe the district’s greatest strengths lie in the collective wisdom, teaching expertise and creativity of its educators, as well as in the dedication of its families and students who share a deep commitment to education. My leadership approach centers on open and honest communication, mutual respect and a shared vision for student success. I am committed to supporting teachers’ professional growth by providing meaningful tools, opportunities, and ongoing conversations about curriculum and instruction.

Outside of school, I enjoy reading (especially historical fiction) and spending time in nature or listening to some classic vinyl with my husband, our teenage daughter, adult son, and family dog

I earned my bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics from the Georgia Institute of Technology, and I hold master’s degrees from the University of Leeds and Rowan University. I began my teaching career in China, where I taught at both the secondary and college levels for 11 years, eventually becoming Head of the Math and Physics Department at the Sino-British College, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology.

After returning to the United States, I taught mathematics at Rancocas Valley Regional High School for seven years. I later transitioned into educational administration, first serving as Math Supervisor at South Brunswick High School before assuming my current role as Supervisor of Math and Science in the Haddonfield School District. In this position, I am committed to supporting high-quality instruction, fostering collaboration among educators, and promoting innovative approaches to teaching and learning.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time outdoors with my wife and two sons.

I earned my bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, Pa., where I majored in jazz performance and education. I began my career as an instrumental music teacher in the Evesham Township School District, teaching grades 4 to 8, while also serving as Assistant Director for the Eastern High School Marching Band for 16 years. In 2020, I returned to graduate school at Wilmington University, earning a second master’s degree in Educational Leadership. Upon completing that degree, I transitioned to administration, joining the Haddonfield team in 2023 as Content-Area Supervisor and District Safety Specialist. I am proud to work with Haddonfield’s amazing staff to provide the best possible experiences for students in the arts, PE, and world language, continually evaluating opportunities for growth.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my wife, Caitlin, and daughter, Lizzie, particularly at the Jersey Shore and Disney World.

I started working as Athletic Director at Haddonfield Memorial High School in 2005. I have a B.S. in Health and Physical Education from West Chester University (1995) and a M.A. in Educational Administration from Rider University (2001). My professional certifications include the National Federation of State High School Association Certified Athletic Administrator. I have presented workshops at the Athletic Directors’ state conference, and I serve on various New Jersey State Athletic Association committees.  

I believe that athletics are an important part of the overall educational program at Haddonfield Memorial High School. Participation in athletics is a privilege available to all eligible students. While physical skill and demonstrated ability are primary considerations in determining participation in competitions, we believe that academic achievement is of primary importance and that athletic achievement is secondary to this responsibility.

Interscholastic athletics provide another dimension of education. The program strives to develop positive values such as accountability, sportsmanship, confidence, leadership, organizational skills, persistence, work ethic, self-discipline, social skills, teamwork, performing under pressure, the ability to take instruction and striving for excellence.  All levels of each sport’s program are designed with the development of these qualities in mind.