Our Leadership

Verone Kennedy joined NHA in 2010 to open Riverton Street Charter School in Brooklyn, New York.  Verone’s career in education began in 1987 as a paraprofessional.   He had been an “urban ranger” working with students in New York City, when his talents for working with children were noted by Thelma Harper, then Principal of P.S.191.  Harper helped Verone become an educational aide while completing the coursework needed to obtain teacher certification.

Verone taught until 2000 when he accepted a position as staff developer for the United Federation of Teachers.  This position began Verone’s transition into school leadership roles which led to his selection to attend New York City’s Leadership Academy in 2004.

Verone was the founding Principal of the Granville T. Woods School of Science and Technology (M.S. 584) and the Chief Academic Officer of the D.O.E.’s Community Learning Support Organization.  In this latter role, he led a team of educational specialists in supporting 22 NYC Middle and High Schools.  He was later promoted to Coordinator of Middle School Initiatives where he served until joining NHA.

Verone’s service to children has been recognized through numerous awards and resolutions.  He’s been formally recognized by Senator Hillary Clinton, Governor George Pataki and Mayor Michael Bloomberg.  In 2008, he was presented with the Sloan Public Service Awarded for his service to the people of the city of New York.

Letta Belle, Dean

Previous Experience:
Teacher for 6 years

Personal:
Two children

Growing up with the aspiration to always be a teacher, Brianne never thought she would be where she is today and on the “fast track” she is on. It was made clear very early on for Brianne that education came before anything. What was even clearer to her was her desire and passion for children. As a child herself, Brianne was always known as the caretaker of her family. Whenever there was a need, she wanted to tend to it and make it right to benefit others and this fostered her desire to become a teacher and benefit the lives of children today.

Brianne grew up in the suburban town of Ridgewood, NJ alongside four siblings, all whom she continues to spend time with regularly and enjoys immensely. Upon graduating Syracuse University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Inclusive and Special Education, Brianne began her career opening a new school of National Heritage Academies. As a Special Education Coordinator of Brooklyn Scholars Charter School in East New York, Brooklyn, she coordinated the special education program and was the lead resource room teacher for grades K-4. In her second year, Brianne opened another school as a third grade teacher. Her classroom was full of eager learners all whom she had one goal for and that was to succeed and begin the journey toward college. After a very successful year in the classroom, Brianne took on the role as a Dean of Instruction for the Riverton Street Charter School. She is currently furthering her educational career and attending Teachers College at Columbia University to pursue a dual Master’s Degree in Teaching and Curriculum and Administration.

As Brianne continues to pursue both personal and professional aspirations, she eagerly awaits new experiences and challenges in her mission to support  the growth and development of children.