Our Leadership Staff
Katherine Bassett, Chief Executive Officer
Throughout her career in education, Katherine has advocated for students to receive the highest-quality of education regardless of their zip code or family circumstances. She was named New Jersey’s 2000 State Teacher of the Year, and served as President and CEO of the National Network of State Teachers of the Year.
Katherine spent 26 years in the classroom as a middle school librarian and at ETS, led the development of the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards certificates for Library Media and Literacy. She led the development of performance-based assessments in four states and worked with six states to develop a common continuum of practice. She also served as Director of Policy and Partnerships for the Center for Educator Effectiveness at Pearson, working to support research into educator practice and self-efficacy and led the development of the Teacher Leader Model Standards and co-led development of the Model Code of Ethics for Educators.
Ashley Bencan, Chief Operating Officer
Ashley Bencan has been a coach, a teacher, a student-athlete, a policymaker and, most importantly, a good listener. Working in the education sector is challenging and sometimes isolating work, however through many different opportunities and great colleagues she has found it rewarding.
Ashley attended Rollins College where she was a two-sport athlete and completed her honors psychology thesis on ‘Quality Out of School Time Programming through the Central Florida YMCA.’ When weighing the options of a master’s in public policy at American University or Teach For America, Ashley chose TFA. After five years of teaching middle school ELA and Social Studies in North Philadelphia and earning her master’s from UPENN GSE, Ashley joined the New Jersey Department of Education. Over the course of her time there, she impacted the following areas of policy and practice: Recruitment, Preparation and Recognition; Data Reporting and Visualization, and as the Director of Strategic Operations she led the internal efforts to systematically improve the agency.
Mysti Diaz, Executive Director of Operations
Mysti Diaz is extremely proud to continue her work for the New Jersey Tutoring Corps in her new role as Executive Director of Operations. She has been a member of the New Jersey Tutoring Corps since the summer of 2021, first as a math tutor, then an Instructional Coach, and then as a Regional Program Manager for the Central and South Jersey partner sites.
Mysti loves interacting and developing relationships with children of all ages. She believes that all children deserve to have the opportunity to engage with and understand math skills and concepts. For the past two years, Mysti also has served as an Instructional Coach for the program. She understands that providing support for preservice teachers goes a long way in helping to effectively educate young scholars.
Mysti graduated from Rowan University in 2001 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management. After approximately 10 years, having held various positions in a local Mortgage Servicing company, she decided to pursue teaching as a career. She earned a Master of Science in Teaching degree (K-12 Math) in 2014. Since then, she has taught all levels of math in various public school and private tutoring environments.
Jessica Kelly, Executive Director of Programs
Jessica Kelly serves as Executive Director of Programs for the New Jersey Tutoring Corps, Inc. It was her passion for reading and writing that led Jessica to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in education from Long Island University and become a teacher. She believes in the power of the life lessons that are mined through the study of literature. When students are given the time to read, write, speak, and connect with a topic, they develop empathy and a positive sense of self. This is why she believes it’s so important for all students to be able to read fluently and to see their life experiences mirrored in what they read.
Jessica is an experienced educator who cares deeply about her students. She has thirteen years of teaching experience, four years of curriculum coordinator experience, and nine years of being a middle school advisor. Additionally, she worked on a reading research project for The Meadows Center for Preventing Educational Risk at The University of Texas at Austin.
Jill Hulnick, Strategic Advisor
Jill Hulnick (Linkedin) is an independent consultant with more than 20 years of senior-level leadership, strategy development, and complex problem solving across multiple sectors (nonprofit, government, for-profit). She has expertise in strategy implementation, strategic budgeting, talent management, process improvement, and managing cross-sector partnerships. Prior to consulting, Jill served as Chief Impact Officer for BBYO where for five years she ran US Operations, strategic planning, program content, and membership growth – overseeing approximately 60% of the organization’s 165 full-time employees. Notably, Jill led BBYO through the pandemic restructure including the development and implementation of a short and long-term strategic plan. Prior to BBYO, Jill served in leadership roles in the public education sector where she served as the Assistant Deputy Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Education leading the design and implementation of New Jersey’s ESSA plan (a statewide strategic plan to deliver educational supports to disadvantaged students) and in a series of progressive leadership roles at the Chicago Public Schools. Earlier in her career Jill also worked in the for-profit sector where she launched consumer products for Starbucks and advised Fortune 500 companies on talent strategy at Mercer HR Consulting. Jill holds an MBA from Harvard University and a BA in economics from Tufts University.
Our Program Staff
Bertin Lefkovic, Finance Director
Bertin Lefkovic serves as Finance Director for the New Jersey Tutoring Corps. His focus is on grants and procurement management as well as fundraising.
Prior to joining the NJTC, he had been working with individuals with disabilities and their families, helping them to manage their participation in the Personal Preference Program, a Medicaid-waiver home and community-based services program that enabled them to receive paid personal care assistance services from family members, friends, and others. Before that, most of his professional career has been in the organized Jewish community with State of Israel Bonds, the Jewish Partisan Educational Foundation, Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, and Young Israel of East Brunswick.
Bertin earned a B.A. in Political Science at New York University and an Ed.M. from Rutgers University’s Graduate School of Education.
Jessica Lantazio-Crespo, Master Trainer/Literacy Specialist
Jessica Lantazio-Crespo has spent the last 17 years of her career working in the classroom. She began her work in the elementary classroom and then moved to the middle school, and has been a middle school ELA teacher for the past 13 years. Jessica serves as a reading specialist in her K-8 district, working with learners of all ages and abilities. She is also a literacy coach in her district, a position that allows her to work closely with colleagues to infuse essential literacy skills in all content areas.
Jessica serves on many committees that include curriculum writing, SEL initiatives, I&RS/RTI, student ambassadors, strategic planning, multicultural literacy, before school book clubs, summer reading kick-offs, and continues to lead research-based literacy initiatives in her building.
Jessica also worked as an adjunct professor at The College of New Jersey; observing preservice teachers and guiding in the delivery of literacy lessons for their future classrooms. Most recently, she has joined the New Jersey Tutoring Corps and has served as an instructional coach in numerous locations to support both tutor and student growth.
Taneisha Clemons, Regional Program Manager
Taneisha Clemons serves as the New Jersey Tutoring Corps’s Regional Project Manager, Summer. She is certified as a K-6 elementary teacher/K-12 Special Education teacher. Taneisha taught for eight years in the districts of Newark, Plainfield, and Phillipsburg, NJ. She has experience in charter and public schools, teaching grades K-1; 5-6 (ELA), specializing in Special Education.
Taneisha has been a member of the Corps as an Instructional Coach for its embedded school day program, overseeing the logistics of tutoring sessions onsite. Taneisha believes that every child can learn if they have passionate advocates willing to meet them where they are.
Taneisha has earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Montclair State University, and a Master of Arts in Education from Saint Peter’s University. She currently is a doctoral candidate at Walden University to earn a Doctorate in Education specializing in Special Education.
Andrea Brooks, Regional Program Manager
Andrea Brooks is a proud member of the New Jersey Tutoring Corps. She joins us with more than 27 years of varied teaching experience, from nursery school through eighth grade, in all subject areas. Andrea began her teaching career in East Windsor in 1997, moved on to Robbinsville in 2000, and then Newark in 2022.
Andrea has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Rider University and has been the Vice President of the Hopewell Valley Regional School District Board of Education since 2021, where she has been the chairperson to the Educational Programming Committee and the Personnel Committee. She has also been an advocate for all students and an active
member in the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion committee as well as the Policy committee.
Andrea serves as Site Coordinator for the Hamilton Schools and a Regional Program Manager. She believes all students can learn when given the
proper resources and support.
Jenny Irwin, Assistant Program Manager
Jenny Irwin is proud to work with the NJ Tutoring Corps as the Assistant Program Manager. She started with NJTC as a Tutor in Math for Grades 3-8. Prior to joining, she was a member of the first cohort of the Urban Teacher Residency Program at Montclair State University, where she gained intensive classroom experience with a mentor teacher while enrolled in the 18-month program. She earned her certification as a P-3/K-5 Elementary/K-12 Teacher of Students with Disabilities, along with a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT), and later taught in the Newark Public Schools. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Rutgers University, as well.
Jenny will never forget her firsthand experience of being a former ESL student in her early years of school, and was inspired by a compassionate teacher who took the time to get to know her. This experience fueled her dedication to helping others.
Jenny has also worked extensively in Property Management for a number of years and organized resident services for previously homeless Veterans in her last position. With her background as a Project Coordinator combined with her teaching experience, Jenny hopes to bring a unique perspective into this role and prepare scholars for a successful future.
Tierney Tittermary, Assistant Program Manager
Tierney Tittermary is proud to be New Jersey Tutoring Corp’s newest Assistant Program Manager.
After graduating from Rowan University in 2012 with dual Bachelor Degrees in Elementary Education and Geography, Tierney embarked on a journey marked by relentless pursuit of excellence. With over ten years of experience, her time in the Vineland Public School District saw her not only serve as a kindergarten and first-grade classroom teacher but also take on various leadership roles, including Google Workspace Professional Development leader, Curriculum Author, CLI Model Classroom Teacher, LinkIt Liaison, and Novice Teacher Mentor. Her outstanding contributions were acknowledged when she was named Educator of the Year for the 2020-2021 academic year.
Tierney also has experience as an NJTC tutor and Instructional Coach. She recognizes the profound effect high-impact tutoring can have in bridging learning gaps. Tierney has witnessed firsthand the transformative power NJTC’s embedded school day and after-school programs have on empowering scholars to overcome obstacles and laying the foundation for their future success.
Dalitza Sanchez, Hiring Manager
Dalitza Sanchez is a proud staff member of New Jersey Tutoring Corps serving as Hiring Manager. Dalitza was drawn to NJTC while seeking a career change to pursue a career working with children and young adults. Dalitza’s own journey as an adult learner ignited her passion to advocate for the proper education of all children. She believes that all children can do hard things with a strong support system, and that computer literacy is key to unlocking career options for the younger generation.
Dalitza first joined NJTC as a tutor serving scholars K- 8th grade at the Boys & Girls Club. She delighted in getting to know each scholar and watching them reach their daily academic goal. Now her focus is ensuring that scholars are matched with compassionate and dedicated educators.
Before coming to the Corps, Dalitza served in the medical field for nearly 20 years in various capacities. Now she is dedicating her talents to programs that impact our little ones.
Dalitza earned a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration with a concentration in Information Systems from Ashford University. She also attended the New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark, New Jersey, where she earned her Master’s of Science in Management.”
Mariely Rodriguez, Assistant Hiring Manager
Mariely takes great pride in being a member of the New Jersey Tutoring Corps, Inc. With a Master’s in Education and a school counseling certification, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her roles. Having worked with a diverse range of ages and grades, Mariely understands the unique needs of students at different developmental stages. She is known for her dedication to creating a positive learning environment.
In her capacity as a NJTC Site Coordinator, Mariely oversees the seamless operation of the program, ensuring that all logistical aspects are well-managed. Her priority is to ensure that both tutors and scholars have the resources and support necessary for success.
Mariely’s commitment to student achievement is evident in her tireless efforts to create an environment that fosters learning and growth. As an Assistant Hiring Manager, Mariely actively seeks out educators who not only possess the requisite skills but also share her passion for empowering students. Her goal is to build a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to making a positive impact on the lives of the scholars they serve.
Ashley Petty, Assistant Hiring Manager
Ashley Petty serves as an Assistant Hiring Manager at New Jersey Tutoring Corps, Inc.
Ashley joined NJTC in January 2023 as a Site Coordinator in Newark, NJ. Prior to joining NJTC, Ashley served as a School Operations Manager at a charter school in Camden and for Newark Public Schools in Newark, NJ
Before being an Operations Manager, she worked as a teaching fellow with Citizen Schools where she co-taught lessons with a certified teacher and managed the operations for after-school programming of 6-8th grade students. Through her work experience, Ashley has learned that teachers aren’t the only people who impact students’ lives, it takes a healthy school community to allow students to thrive.
She received her Bachelor of Arts in Communications/Journalism from Ramapo College of New Jersey. She is an entrepreneur and also serves as a Trustee for a non-profit organization.
Rene Lintz, Program Assistant
Rene Lintz serves as Program Assistant for the New Jersey Tutoring Corps Inc. Rene has supported the work of NJTC as a Site Coordinator and an Instructional Coach since its inception. Rene is responsible for recruiting, hiring and onboarding field staff, as well as providing administrative support to both the CEO and COO. She also coordinates and manages the implementation of special projects as well as prepares and provides teaching and learning materials for onsite tutoring.
Rene’s teaching career spanned 33 years supporting learners in the Trenton Public School District as Kindergarten teacher, 1st grade teacher, 5th grade teacher, and K-8 Technology teacher.
She received her Bachelor’s of Science degree from Trenton State College as well as earned her Master’s of Arts in Education in Curriculum Design with an emphasis in Technology from Grand Canyon University. She has a passion for helping scholars succeed through the quality instruction and tutoring that the NJTC team provides.
Nicholas Ulrich, Web Developer
Nicholas Ulrich joined the New Jersey Tutoring Corps as its web developer in March 2023. He has worked for a large digital marketing agency in New York City coding marketing emails and collaborating on design for a variety of e-commerce clients including Gucci, Kate Spade, and LifeLock. He currently works for a large, well-know fashion brand applying his marketing and coding skills.
He has experience using content management systems and programming languages to create attention-grabbing and informative websites. Previously, he volunteered his time working remotely for an adolescent-focused non-profit
organization based in Spain.
Working for the New Jersey Tutoring Corps was the next natural step in his career as he thoroughly enjoys working with organizations whose goal is to uplift and better the lives of others.
Sheila Durden, Communications Consultant
Sheila Durden serves as Communications Consultant for the New Jersey Tutoring Corps Inc., bringing a versatile communications approach informed by her diverse experience.
A Michigan native and graduate of Spelman College, Sheila’s career has spanned education, entrepreneurship, and creative services. Her businesses, including a personalized greeting card company and a tutoring & remediation service for children with learning differences, honed her ability to tailor communications for different audiences.
Since 2014, SDurden Creatives has allowed her to apply this adaptability to a wider range of clients. Sheila enjoys the challenge of helping organizations find their unique voice and communicate it through beautiful, effective designs.
Chelsea Collins, Program Consultant
Chelsea Collins is proud to work with the NJ Tutoring Corp as a Program Consultant, where she designs and leads instructional training and support for more than 200 instructional coaches and tutors across the state. Chelsea leads work nationally for Learning Forward, where she supports the national Equity-Centered Pipeline Initiative, and Catapult Learning, where she provides professional learning and coaching to educators across the country. For the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association and the New Jersey Association of School Administrators, Chelsea develops and delivers training and coaching to educators across New Jersey.
Chelsea was selected among 125,000 teachers as the 2016 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year; as a teacher, Chelsea was hand-selected by the Assistant Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Education to lead first-ever statewide policy initiatives. Her work received national attention and was presented to state education agencies across the country.
Scott Oswald, Program Consultant
With over 32 years in education, starting as a classroom teacher and serving students as a principal and superintendent, Dr. Scott Oswald currently is proud to serve the New Jersey Tutoring Corp. Dr. Oswald also teaches at both Rowan and Stockton Universities and works with several other education-related organizations in the Mid-Atlantic region. He is passionate about working with teachers, school leaders, and Boards of Education to better understand issues of equity that may be present in their districts, schools, and classrooms. Using data to drive decision making around instructional practices, curriculum development, and policy formation is often at the heart of equity work at each level.
Dr. Oswald believes deeply that behind every data point is a child and behind every child is a story. Untilwe know those stories, we will never completely understand the data. As such, he values the “wholechild” approach to education and understands that children learn best in an environment where they feel safe, have a voice, and can genuinely be themselves.
Our Field Staff
We are proud of the diversity of our field staff. Below are photos of some of the tutors, site coordinators, and instructional coaches working with our scholars in this school year program cycle.
The New Jersey Tutoring Corps Inc employs as many as four hundred field staff per instructional cycle, depending on numbers of scholars and sites at any given time. These field staff represent the best and brightest of New Jersey’s educational family. In most cases, field staff work face-to-face with scholars; in unique circumstances, they may work virtually. In virtual instances, there will always be at least one senior staff member in-person onsite.
All field staff are required to hold their New Jersey Criminal Background Fingerprint certificate and to supply a copy of that certificate to the program. In addition, they must provide I9 documentation of proof to work in the United States and participate in a background check.
Field staff must also comply with the requirement of individual sites in regard to COVID protocols.
Our field staff consist of three tiers of staff:
Site Coordinators: Site Coordinators are responsible for overseeing all logistics and operational management on behalf of the New Jersey Tutoring Corps Inc at one to two of our school/district or partner-based sites throughout New Jersey. Site Coordinators are required to hold a Bachelor’s degree and to have some management experience in order to serve.
Instructional Coaches: Instructional Coaches observe and conduct feedback meetings with our tutoring staff at one to two school/district or partner-based sites throughout the state. They partner with Site Coordinators to ensure that sites are operational and meeting the needs of scholars. Instructional Coaches must hold, or have held, a teaching certificate as well as have teacher leadership experience.
Tutors: Tutors provide direct instruction to Scholars (students, typically in grades pre-kindergarten through 8th grade) at one of our school/district or partner-based sites statewide. Tutors meet with scholars in a ratio of one Tutor to no more than five scholars, although we try to hold that ratio to no more than one Tutor to three scholars. Tutors will meet with multiple scholar groups within the course of a day. Tutors may be pre-service educators, in-service educators, retired educators, substitute teachers, parents, or other interested individuals with documented experience in providing instruction to children.