Meet the new Dean

20160125_132011 — Who is Lourdes Cuesta? Our new school assistant principal (AP), Ms. Cuesta is in charge of safety and security in the school. She also concentrates on attendance, advisory, and anything student service related. Find out more about her other than her job at WJPS here! Picture by Eneid Papa.

by Janae Kea, staff reporter

What school did you come from ?

I came from William Cullen Bryant high school. I was an assistant principal there.

What made you want to come to WJPS? How does WJPS differ from your old school ?

I actually spoke to Ms.Schneider upon doing research. I was open for a change, WJPS was smaller and it also had the middle school factor which is what I wasn’t used to.

Where are you from (born and raised)?

I was born in Manhattan, but I am a Queens girls. I grew up in east Elmhurst and I went to school in Astoria.

How do you like WJPS so far ?

I’m loving it! I’m still trying to figure out what I can do to enhance the community here.

What are your plans for this school ?

Getting more of a student voice, get them more involved with the community. Also helping students get what they want done.

What role do you play within the community?

I get asked this question a lot, a lot of people think I am the new dean. I’m an Assistant Principal (AP), I deal with students and things related of that source.

How has it been adjusting to WJPS?

I’m loving it. I’m trying to figure out what I can do to enhance the community. It’s a crucial time, it’s important to make sure students get involved.

How long have you had this profession ?

I have been in this profession as an educator for 18 years and I have been an a AP for 10 years. I started off as a spark counselor and a health teacher, later I became a guidance counselor then an AP.

What college did you go to ?

I went to St John’s Prep, then St John’s university. I got my masters in Psychology as well as school counseling, I am currently attending Sage University to get my doctorate in Educational Leadership.

Do you have have any hidden talents ?

This may not be a hidden talent but a fact that not a lot of people know about me is, Spanish is my first language. Also I was an assistant track coach with Mr. Angeles, I also did dance and softball.

Is there anything else you want us to know ?

I want you guys to know that I’m all about the students, all day, all the time. I love what I do.