Faculty Spotlight

Eric Harrield has had an exciting career, beginning in the music and advertising industries before transitioning into education and coaching — a journey that has been filled with surprising discoveries and victories. Mr. Harrield is enthusiastic about giving back to the Hudson County community and New Jersey, where he grew up. As Franklin’s Director of Co-curricular Programs, Athletic Program Advisor, and PE Teacher, Mr. Harrield will have a hand in shaping all of Franklin’s extracurricular and physical education programs.

We’re thrilled to introduce our new Athletic Director, Brad Greenman! A triple threat, Mr. Greenman is no stranger to balancing roles as an administrator, coach, and teacher. In addition to having been a star athlete in school, he has received numerous accolades, including the 2011 Somerset County Baseball Coach of the Year, as named by The Star Ledger; and the 2017 Basketball Coaches Association of New York State Girls Private School Coach of the Year. 

Aridania Luna, who was born in the Dominican Republic, discovered that her true passion was in the classroom and not at the drafting table a few years into her career as an architect. She pivoted in the direction and has taught Spanish at the high school and college level for over three decades.

Stephen Bailey’s love for storytelling began in childhood, As he got older, his passion only grew — and expanded to literature, creative writing, and teaching. Over a 25-year career in education, he has also served in an advisory capacity for student affinity groups and is a founding member of People of Color in Independent Schools. Mr. Bailey looks forward to joining the Franklin community as our lead English teacher and helping to launch the School from the ground up.

Originally Brett Colon never intended to pursue art — however, after her portfolio was accepted into the University of Connecticut’s arts program, she never looked back. She recalls how one professor in particular instilled the faith in herself that she needed, giving her the resources, strategies, and time to help her succeed. Ms. Colon aspires to be a mentor in the very same way for her Franklin students as Head of our Visual Arts Program. 

When Christina Antico discovered Franklin, she was delighted to learn that she identified with our School’s philosophy and commitment to hands-on learning, and we’re excited that she’s joined our team and Math Department.

Ann Denkler, PhD, knew that she wanted to be an educator since she was five years old. She’s bringing her lifelong passion for teaching to Franklin — and making the move from Virginia to join us in Jersey City! 

When Chris Barnes visited Franklin — all the way from Australia — to meet with our Head of School, William Campbell, he was actually reconnecting with his former colleague and fellow countryman. Mr. Barnes and Mr. Campbell had previously worked together at the Trinity Grammar School in Sydney. Walking through the Franklin doors, Mr. Barnes was thrilled by the vision of our new school, as well as the rich diversity of the Jersey City community. He is even more excited now to be joining us this fall as Franklin’s Academic Care and Capstone Project Director!

Amy Szczepanski is passionate about teaching, science, and music. She loves that being an educator allows her to combine two of these — while music is a significant part of her life as a hobby. 

Ali Iberraken, exemplifying Franklin’s commitment to providing students with hands-on learning experiences, is a self-proclaimed “experiential learning evangelist.”

You may have met Matthew Adam at Franklin’s curriculum night, where he spoke with prospective students and families about the advantages of early exposure to micro-courses and electives. 

Jaymes Dec loves technology and art, as well as building and design, all of which he weaves into his inspiring teaching. He was an early advocate for makerspaces — creative places where students learn by building.