Lateefah has been in the education field for over 20 years. Originally from Washington D.C., Lateefah came to Boston as an undergraduate where she earned a B.A. from Boston University, M.Ed. from Lesley University and a C.A.G.S. from Simmons College.
She began her educational journey in inclusion and LEP classrooms as a first, third, and fourth grade classroom teacher. She then became a literacy specialist for upper elementary school struggling readers, before solidly placing her feet in roles of school leadership. She was an instructional coach before becoming the upper Elementary School Principal at the Boston Renaissance Charter Public School. Now as the Director Lateefah is extending her work as an educational leader providing support to educators in Westwood, MA.
Kimbra Dennis
METCO ADVISOR
In the Spring of 2021 the High School Academic Advisor was added to support students in the program. The position has evolved to become an integral support for students and faculty within the High School. Ms. Dennis is a career changer and comes to Westwood with great experience; she is a METCO Program Alumni of Lincoln Sudbury High School, had two children who went through the Program in Wellesley Public Schools, and worked for the METCO Program in Sharon for over 5 years. It is clear that Ms. Dennis is an advocate for students and has the exceptional ability to partner with her fellow educators and students’ families to get the best outcomes for students.
Ernest Hughes III
ELEMENTARY METCO LIAISON
Ernest Hughes is a Lexington Alumni of the METCO Program. Ernest joined the WPS METCO team in an interim role as Middle School Academic Advisor in the Spring of 2022 and quickly became an integral part of the program. The Coordinator provides academic guidance and social enrichment to students and their parents. The coordinator actively monitors the academic performance and social and emotional well-being of students as well as develops and implements strategies to enhance academic achievement and maximize access and opportunities. He communicates his findings to caregivers, teachers, specialists, Principals, and the Director of the METCO program. Lastly, the Coordinator actively supports cultural and social adjustments of students, families, educators, and staff to develop strong and collaborative relationships to ensure a positive experience.
Keandra
Dennis-Waller
METCO FAMILY LIAISON
& ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
TO THE DIRECTOR
The METCO Program Family Liaison works closely with the Director to support families in receiving wrap-around services in and around Boston. Keandra Dennis-Waller is a Wellesley METCO alum and has been in the district since 2021. She serves as a bridge between our Boston and Westwood communities helping Boston families understand school culture. Her role is to ensure that families have a personal connection within the school community. In addition, Keandra assists in coordinating transportation for our Boston resident students and supports the entire METCO Program staff.
In the role they will support the TMS academic, mental health, and administrative team to ensure that the METCO program supports students in thriving academically and socially in WPS. He is excited to be in Westwood working with all of the students and making an impact in the district. Go Bulldogs!!!