Kathleen “Katie” Elko Professional Biography

Kathleen Elko is an accomplished educational leader with over 27 years of experience in various roles within the education sector, complemented by a diverse background in retail management and extensive volunteer work in animal welfare. Recently retired School Counselor at a top school of New Jersey, Woodbridge Academy Magnet School, formerly Middlesex Academy for Allied Health and Medical Sciences, Kathleen has demonstrated exceptional versatility and commitment throughout her distinguished career.

Educational Excellence and Leadership

Kathleen's educational journey reflects her dedication to continuous learning and professional growth. She holds a Master of Arts in Education from Georgian Court University (2000) and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from St. Bonaventure University (1990). Her commitment to expanding her expertise is evident through multiple post-graduate certifications, including a Post-Masters Supervisor Certificate from Kean University (2009) and a Post-Masters School Counselor Certification from Monmouth University (2008).


Comprehensive Educational Leadership

Since 2000, Kathleen has served in multiple capacities at Middlesex County Magnet Schools, showcasing remarkable adaptability and leadership skills. As a School Counselor (2011-present), she provides comprehensive guidance to students in individual and group settings, addressing academic, career, and social-emotional needs. Her role extends beyond traditional counseling to include college advisement, family counseling meetings, and coordinating financial aid information sessions.

Kathleen's expertise in educational administration is demonstrated through her various leadership positions, including Night School Principal (2012-2014, 2022-2024), where she oversaw all aspects of adult education programs. As Mathematics Coach (2010-2011) and Mathematics Facilitator (2008-2010), she developed innovative assessment tools and curriculum enhancements across multiple campuses, contributing to improved student outcomes in mathematics education.

Her technical proficiency includes expert knowledge of student information systems like GENESIS, coordination of state testing programs (PARCC and NJSLA-S), and management of dual credit college courses through partnerships with Rutgers School of Health Professions.

Professional Engagement and Service

Kathleen maintains active memberships in numerous professional organizations, including the New Jersey Education Association, National Education Association, and various county-level educational associations. She served as Treasurer of the Middlesex County Vocational Education Association from 2008-2017, demonstrating her commitment to educational leadership beyond her immediate role. She has been a member of the National Association for College Admission Counseling since joining Woodbridge Academy as well as NJACAC.  Kathleen has already earned her NACAC Professional Certificate in Core Concepts for Independent Educational Consultants.  She recently joined the Independent Educational Consultants Association as an Associate member and is looking forward to attending her first Summer Training Institute.

Diverse Professional Background

Before transitioning to education, Kathleen gained valuable experience in the corporate and retail sectors. Her roles as Funds Transfer Officer and Loan Officer at First Fidelity Bank (now Wells Fargo) and Customer Service Representative positions at Continental Airlines and JCPenney provided her with strong organizational, customer service, and financial management skills that continue to enhance her educational leadership capabilities.

Community Commitment and Volunteer Leadership

Kathleen's dedication to service extends significantly into her personal life through extensive volunteer work in animal welfare. Since 20172, she has been involved with Wag On Inn Rescue, a 501c3 non-profit animal rescue organization, currently serving as Treasurer and Board Member since 2021. Her previous volunteer experiences include founding board membership with the Stephanie Nicole Parze Foundation (2020-2024) and involvement with Rescue Ridge, Inc. (2007-2014).

Additional community engagement includes leadership roles with the Women's Club of Tinton Falls, where she served as Treasurer from 2016-2017, and in 1998 – 2000 she made creative contributions to local theater as Stage Manager for the Manalapan Community Players and Marlboro Players.

Skills and Expertise

Kathleen brings a unique combination of educational expertise, administrative leadership, and community service experience. Her core competencies include:

  • Educational counseling and student development
  • Curriculum development and assessment coordination
  • Administrative leadership and program management
  • Team development and collaborative leadership
  • Customer service excellence
  • Financial management and organizational oversight
  • Community engagement and non-profit leadership

Current Focus

Drawing upon her wealth of experience spanning nearly three decades in education, Kathleen is now looking to share her extensive knowledge and expertise with students as an independent educational consultant. Her comprehensive background in school counseling, academic planning, college advisement, and student support services positions her uniquely to provide personalized guidance to students and families navigating educational decisions and career planning. Her career exemplifies a commitment to educational excellence, community service, and lifelong learning, making her an invaluable resource for students seeking experienced guidance with a proven track record of success in educational leadership and student development.