Message from the School Director

Dear Cypress Hills Ascend Charter School Community, 

It is an honor to introduce myself as the new principal of Cypress Hills Ascend Charter school and to join this extraordinary community. I can assure you that I am committed to caring for your children each and every day while providing them a world-class learning environment. 

I am excited to work in Cypress Hills, a neighborhood very dear to my heart. I lived in this community until the age of 12 and, in many ways, it feels like I am returning home. I return to Cypress Hills as a seasoned elementary teacher and school leader. In addition to my role as an educator, I am first and foremost a mother. In September, my daughter Alysa begins eighth grade, my son Alex begins college, and my oldest daughter Ciara will be a sophomore in college. I look forward to introducing my family to the many wonderful people that call Cypress Hills “home” in the near future. 

The 2019-2020 school year will mark my 13th year in education. Since starting my career with Teach For America, I have served communities in under-resourced schools in Hawaii, Nevada, and Connecticut. Although I have always felt at home in the classroom, it is in my position as an elementary school leader where I have been most fulfilled in my life’s work. The elementary school directorship provides me the chance to work collaboratively with teachers on a daily basis, while also remaining connected to young students learning and growing in the classroom. I firmly believe that every child can excel and that the partnership between home and school builds confidence in students to use their powers to shape their future and the future of our community and our nation.

While I have loved all of my experiences in education, my time at Ascend has been the most impactful and is aligned with my core beliefs and values. At Ascend, we believe every student deserves an excellent education. We also believe in creating a school culture that meets the needs of all students and builds agency. I am committed to exploring new ways to meet the needs of all students and to effectively communicate with parents and community members. We will be meeting with parents, students, and as a staff throughout the year to identify specific goals in the areas of student achievement, school climate, and parent communication. 

In closing, please know that my door is always open to you. I heartily welcome your conversation and input throughout this year. Let us always keep our students the primary focus of our work. I look forward to celebrating our collective successes during the 2019-2020 school year.


Sincerely, 

Miss Lissette Roman 
School Director
Cypress Hills Ascend Charter School