Her Story
About Susan
Susan Ellis serves as Supervisor of Special Services Pre-K–8 at the South Orange & Maplewood School District in New Jersey, a leadership role she has held since August 2019. With 27 years of experience in education, Susan began her career in 1999 after earning her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Special Education from Marist University, inspired by her older brother’s special needs and her desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students. She started her career as an elementary teacher with Newark Public Schools, where she spent 13 years developing her expertise in instruction, student advocacy, and special education before transitioning into a middle school special education role within the South Orange & Maplewood School District.
Throughout her career, Susan has remained committed to creating inclusive, supportive, and equitable educational environments where all students have the opportunity to succeed. In her current role, she provides leadership for special education services, supports educators, and collaborates with families, administrators, and child study teams to ensure students receive the resources and support they need. She has pursued continued professional growth by earning a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Kean University and obtaining New Jersey certifications as a Principal, Supervisor, Teacher of the Handicapped, and General Elementary Education. Susan is also an active member of her local administrators’ union and a strong supporter of educators’ collective efforts to advocate for students and schools.
Susan attributes her success to years of hard work, perseverance, and the unwavering support of her husband, along with the encouragement of mentors, colleagues, and leaders who recognized her potential and helped her grow as an educator and administrator. Her leadership philosophy centers on leading with grace, fostering collaboration, and building strong teams dedicated to student achievement and well-being. She continues to address critical challenges in education, including preparing students for an ever-changing world, advancing meaningful inclusion, and navigating special education funding constraints in New Jersey, while remaining focused on creating opportunities for every learner to thrive.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Susan
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of hard work, perseverance, and the incredible support system I have been fortunate to have throughout my journey. My husband has been my greatest source of encouragement and my safe place during challenging times, always providing unwavering support and strength. I have also been blessed to work with amazing leaders and mentors who recognized potential in me that I did not always see in myself and encouraged me to believe in my abilities. The continued support and kindness I receive from my colleagues, supervisors, teachers, and the people I have had the privilege to lead have been invaluable. Success has required dedication, resilience, and many long hours, but having people who believe in me and support me along the way has made all the difference.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the education field is to give themselves time, patience, and grace, especially during the early years of their careers. The first year of teaching is incredibly challenging, and it is important to recognize that the learning curve is steep regardless of how prepared or passionate you are. I encourage new educators to give themselves a few years to grow, develop their confidence, and truly understand the impact they can have before deciding whether teaching is the right path for them. While the work is demanding, the rewards are extraordinary. We have the privilege of guiding young people who are still learning how to navigate the world, understand themselves, and develop the skills they need to become successful individuals. Meeting students with patience, empathy, and the understanding that they are still growing allows us to support them in becoming the best versions of themselves. The challenges are real, but the opportunity to make a lasting difference is what makes this profession so meaningful.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges and opportunities in education today involve adapting to an ever-changing world while continuing to provide inclusive, meaningful learning experiences for every student. Educators are responsible for preparing students for a future that is constantly evolving, particularly as technology advances at a rapid pace and changes the skills students will need to succeed. In special education, there is a continued opportunity to strengthen true inclusion by going beyond accessibility and focusing on the everyday practices that ensure all students feel valued, supported, and empowered. At the same time, funding remains a significant challenge, especially as districts navigate increasing needs, growing student populations, and the responsibility of meeting state requirements with limited resources. Addressing these challenges requires strong leadership, transparency, and a commitment to making thoughtful decisions that prioritize students. Ultimately, the mission of education remains focused on creating equitable opportunities and preparing every learner to thrive in an unpredictable and changing world.
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