Meet the Administration Team
Mrs. Veriner James
Principal
In the early 1980's, Chicago birthed its own “Agent of Change,” Veriner James, from the city’s south side; she understood, at a young age, the importance of structure and education. Veriner James later blossomed into a highly successful administrator and educator who has served in some of Chicago’s hardest-hit communities since 2001. During her tenure, she has taught at the elementary and secondary levels. After achieving success in the classroom, Veriner became a principal. As a school leader, Mrs. James has increased student achievement, created equitable learning environments, and decreased student behavior problems by emphasizing the importance of building healthy relationships and implementing restorative practices. Mrs. James is also a National Trainer at Time To Teach, where she provides professional development to teams centered on improving instructional practices to help students achieve grade-level success. Her commitment to education has been her ministry and her dedication to shaping the lives of every student she encounters. Veriner James has been recognized for having an authentic “Grace” and the ability to connect with, direct, and instruct youth of all ages. James’ gifts have been cultivated by her faith in God and dedication to lifelong learning.
Mrs. James holds a Bachelor of Arts in Applied Behavioral Science (National Louis University), a Master of Arts in Secondary Education (University of Phoenix), and a second Master of Arts in School Leadership (Concordia University). She is working towards attaining her doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Phoenix. Mrs. James enjoys traveling, singing, and shopping during her free time.
Mrs. Kimberlee Jewell
Assistant Principal of Operations
Kimberlee Jewell, is an Experienced Director Of Operations with a demonstrated history of working in the education management industry 8 years as well as 20+ years in facility and project management. Graduated from Hammond High School and studied at IUPUI and Indiana Wesleyan University. Married for 17 years and mother of 3, she is Skilled in Strategic Planning, Business Process Improvement, Leadership, and Program Management. Certified School Safety Specialist, Certified Property Manager, Certified Professional Manager, and Project Manager.
Kim is a true servant that God transitioned into the educational field by assignment and calling. With a servant's heart, love for student success and a willingness to meet the needs of others, her passion to support scholars in providing an environment that will help to support their instruction.
Her primary goal is to help remove the obstacles between facility and instruction for the success of staff and scholars. “I have been stretched and willing to stretch even more. I will work in a capacity that fills voids and supports to achieve success!” -KimJ
Ms. Diamond Stewart
Restorative Justice Coordinator
Ms. Stewart has a wealth of experience in the field of education. She has served in various capacities, including as a Paraprofessional, providing instructional support under the direction of a classroom teacher, an Academic Interventionist, who works with students who are struggling academically or behaviorally, and now as a Restorative Justice Coordinator. Ms. Stewart's passion and heart are centered on fostering a safe and inclusive environment where every student has the opportunity to thrive. With over a decade of experience in education, her wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm for this role is what helps her devise plans for students to address conflicts and behavioral issues through a collaborative and empathetic approach. Her experience with the implementation of Restorative Justice practice is based on a philosophy and practice that emphasizes repairing the harm caused by wrongdoing.
Ms. Stewart is an advocate for encouraging open dialogue between all parties involved, allowing students to take responsibility for their actions while also providing an opportunity for those affected to share their experiences and feelings. The implementation of her process fosters accountability, healing, and reconciliation, rather than simply imposing punitive measures. She aims to promote a culture of respect and understanding within our school community by focusing on healing and accountability.