February 2020: Dr. Sheila R. Cole

Sheila Cole

What is your age and where were you born?  I am 65 years old and was born in Montclair, NJ in the old Community Hospital.     

When did you move to Montclair and why?  1962.  My parents moved here for the school system. 

Are you currently employed?  If so, doing what?  I am retired but recently accepted a part time job with Montclair Board of Education as the Interim Director of Elementary Education.

If you had a career, what was it?  I was an elementary school principal at Franklin Elementary School in Summit for more than 15 years.  During that time, I worked with staff and parents to create a school code of ethics, developed and implemented professional learning communities, and the school was identified as a professional learning community model for the state of New Jersey. Prior to that I was an elementary school principal in Princeton and New York City. 

How are you currently engaged in the community?  I volunteer with Montclair Film by conducting online marketing, ad sales, and niche marketing for the Film Festival.  I am also on the Diversity and Community Relations Committees for Montclair Film.  Additionally, I am a chaplain and member of Christ Church and serve as Democratic committee person with Montclair Democratic Club.  I serve on the Board of Directors of New City Kids Paterson and on the New City Kids National Board, and I volunteer with Compassion International and World Vision.   

What are some of the most important lessons you feel you have learned throughout your life?  1. You can get more bees with honey

2.        Handle some with a long-handled spoon

3.        When your head is in the lion’s mouth, be still

What is your mantra or words you live by?  Do not live in fear, trust God in all things.

If you could tell talk to your 18-year-old self what would you say?  Stop worrying about what others say and be happy just the way you are.

What are your plans for future? How does Montclair fit into these plans?  I plan to continue to live out the purpose that God has for my life, and that is still unfolding.