CONTRIBUTIONS

Dr. Ellis has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance & Economics from Long Island University;  he has two Master of Science Degrees: one in Special Education, and one in School Administration and Supervision – both from Brooklyn College of the City University of New York; and a Doctor of Education Degree in Educational Leadership from the Sage Colleges in Albany: his dissertation is entitled, “The Role of Social Networks of School Leaders In Promoting Better Learning Experiences of Students of Color From Low-Income Families.” 

Dissertation_Clarence Ellis.pdf

SOCIAL NETWORK of SCHOOL LEADERS

Dr. Ellis explored how the instrumental social networks of Grade K-8 principals in schools in New York State influenced their beliefs and attitudes toward the learning experiences of diverse groups of students. The findings of this research reflect that the concept of social networks is extremely important in all schools. This study revealed that the participants believed that a significant part of providing positive learning experiences for students of color from low-income families is to hold high standards for the students.

The school’s professional development stance cannot be viewed in isolation. Delivering professional development without the formation of a professional learning community can be viewed as an exercise of compliance... As such, professional learning communities are a form of instrumental social network.                                                                                          

-Clarence Ellis

EQUITY and EXCELLENCE

Clarence G Ellis oversees some Central Brooklyn neighborhoods undergoing major population shifts. Along with Clara Hemphill, Dr. Ellis helps us understand both the broader picture and some of the more local, day to day efforts that educators are making to create a more integrated and diverse school community.

"It clicked for me early. These are the kinds of things to teach our staff...to learn about our students and where they come from." 

- Clarence Ellis

5+Steps+to+Integrate+NYC+Elementary+Schools.pdf

INTEGRATING PUBLIC SCHOOLS

In a candid public dialogue, Clarence Ellis contributes to advancing innovative public policies that strengthen neighborhoods, support families, and reduce urban poverty within his school district. His policy includes making new families to his gentrified neighborhood feel welcome while ensuring that long-time residents aren’t displaced or marginalized.

“Gone are the days when you could just sit back and children would be funneled into your building."

-Clarence Ellis

Newly Appointed_Clarence Ellis.pdf

VOWS TO LISTEN TO PARENTS

A longtime educator and administrator in New York City who was just appointed to manage 35 schools in Central Brooklyn, Ellis said his first task is to build trust among the area's families, so that he can meet their needs and improve the district's schools.

"Parents have a right to make the decision that’s right for their family. Far be it for me to tell them which route they should take." 

-Clarence Ellis

DISPROPORTIONALITY VOICES from the FIELD

In this webinar, Clarence Ellis joins a diverse panel of district superintendents and school administrators as they share strategies and approaches to identifying, addressing, and preventing disproportionality in their schools. Dr. Patrick Jean-Pierre, Director of NYU’s Technical Assistance Center on Disproportionality, facilitates the panel of practitioners. 

"We must appreciate where they (school leaders) are and meet them where they are.  Some may need additional support and some may need to be highlighted as a showcase school." 

-Clarence Ellis

PRESENTATIONS

AWARDS


Superheros!

At Vaughn College during our Citywide Leadership Meeting, Superintendent Alvarez and I donned our Superhero costumes representing being Champions for Children. Dr. Muhammad discussed the value of our Equity Agenda. Then we shared bridges and barriers to our work. 

A New Playground!

A glorious day during the Grand Opening of the M.S. 354 & KIPP AMP Community Playground. This was a collaboration between NYS Parks, DEP, DOE, SCA, Brooklyn Nets, Barclays Center, and The Trust For Public Land! This is a playground for children designed by children! Amazing!

RISE Day 2019

Dr. Ellis poses with former first Deputy Chancellor Cheryl Watson-Harris, Deputy Superintendent Shenean Lindsay, and Executive Superintendent Barbara Freeman at District 17's Annual RISE celebration.

Graduation Day

Dr. Ellis conferred Ramapo High School’s graduating class of 2022. Graduation Day is exciting for everyone!

Minions are Teachers too!

While visiting Summit Park Elementary School, Dr. Ellis ran into a Minion, who also happens to be a teacher! It’s teachers like Ms. Norman that contribute to children loving school! 

Rockland County Track Meet

East Ramapo Central School District hosted the Rockland County Spring Track Meet at Spring Valley High School. This was the first time this annual event was hosted in the district since 1985: it’s been 37 years! Awesome event!