Principal Lopez’s passion for education is deeply rooted as her grandparents and great-grandparents were all teachers in Mexico. Lopez’s parents emigrated from Mexico to New York City where she was born and raised. The fact that her parents had the courage to come to a new country and face so many unknowns as a young family is part of what makes Principal Lopez such a strong advocate for students today. She says, “I love these children and value every minute we are together.”
Bennett Venture is known for its rigorous academic curriculum and exceeds performance scores when compared to other schools statewide. Principal Lopez wants to keep that level of excellence moving forward and is excited about the future here. It’s the teamwork among staff, parents, students, and the community that makes this all possible.
“I’m strongly committed to the Moral Focus virtues here and I want every child to know they are supported at every level — emotionally and academically — we all want what is best for them.” She continues, “It’s the entire staff here that makes this school so special. The dedication of this staff was a key factor in my decision to come to Bennett Venture.”
Principal Lopez has over 10 years of experience with National Heritage Academy schools and is now in her third year as principal at Bennett Venture. Prior to Bennett, she was a teacher and academic dean at Brooklyn Dreams Charter School in New York.
Principal Lopez begins each school day with a 7 a.m. huddle with the staff to ensure everyone is prepared and working as a team from the moment the first child arrives. “I love to personally greet the children at the door whenever I can and be the last person to wish them a ‘good evening’ when they head out at day’s end.” Sounds like she’s making good on her promise to make the most of every minute together.
A Few Things About Principal Lopez
- She earned her teaching degree in childhood education with a minor in bilingual education from Brooklyn College. She received her master’s degree from Concordia College in childhood curriculum and instruction, along with her leadership certification.
- She lived in Texas for 10 years before returning to NYC to continue her education and teaching career there.
- She loves reading, especially books about child development.
- She has three children — (her oldest heading for college next year!)
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About Bennett Venture Academy
Bennett Venture Academy is a tuition-free, public charter school located in Toledo, Ohio serving students in kindergarten through eighth grade. It is part of the National Heritage Academies network, which includes more than 100 tuition-free, public charter schools serving more than 65,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade across nine states. For more information, visit nhaschools.com.
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