Administration
Ms. Lynn Irby
Principal
e: lirby@nullsomsd.k12.nj.us
p: (973) 378 - 2772 ext 2000
Lynn is a native of the South Orange Maplewood School District, and a graduate of Douglass College Rutgers University where she majored in English and Political Science. She began teaching in the Newark Public School system where she was a middle school English teacher and later became a Staff Developer in the English Department. Lynn was the Project Manager for the Striving Readers program, which was a 14 million dollar grant to study the reading habits of middle school students. After receiving her Masters of Science in Educational Leadership from Fordham University, Lynn was a Special Assistant to the Assistant Superintendent in charge of instruction for 15 schools.
In 2009, Lynn became the principal of 13th Avenue School in Newark, a Pre- K -8 school, and then the principal of Arts High School, the Nation’s first Performing Arts High School. She remained there for 4 years before coming back home to South Orange Middle School.
Lynn is a passionate educator who has dedicated her life to ensuring children receive the best possible education. It is her personal mission to create an environment where students can thrive academically and socially, and where every voice is valued and heard!
She is extremely proud and honored to lead a team of extraordinary educators and brilliant students!
Dr. Donovan Smalls II
Assistant Principal
e: dsmalls@nullsomsd.k12.nj.us
p: (973) 378 - 2772 ext 2006
Dr. Donovan Smalls II is a dynamic and visionary educational leader committed to providing all students with equitable learning experiences. His mission is to cultivate an inclusive and brave space where each student feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full academic, social, and emotional potential. His leadership philosophy focuses on increasing student academic performance, closing academic achievement gaps, and preparing students for an emerging future.
As an instructional leader, Dr. Smalls II has a vast array of skills and experience needed to facilitate learning and professional growth for students and staff. Previously, he was a Vice Principal at the Township of Union Public School District. Furthermore, he taught health & physical education at South Orange Maplewood School District and Newark Public Schools. Additionally, he was a Professor of Sport Management and an Assistant Basketball Coach at Virginia State University. Dr. Smalls II is an Amazon Best Selling Author of a book titled, Beyond Sports: Helping Student-Athletes Discover & Achieve Long-term Success. Also, he has written several scholarly articles in peer-reviewed academic journals.
Dr. Smalls II earned a Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership & Management from Drexel University, a Master of Science degree in Sport Management from Virginia State University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Health & Exercise Science Teaching from The College of New Jersey.
He is proud and honored to serve the students, staff, families, and community at South Orange Middle School!
Mr. James Waldren
Assistant Principal
e: jwaldron@nullsomsd.k12.nj.us
p: (973) 378 - 2772 ext 2005
Jim is a graduate of Montclair State University Panzer School of Physical Education, where he also played sports. His athletic career is what inspired him to continue working with children. His time at Montclair, both on and off of the field, has taught Jim a great deal about being a team player as well as supporting others during difficult situations. Jim uses the tools and guidance that he received to teach and inspire his staff members and students, especially those that are exceptional learners.
Jim was a member of the Newark Public Schools for 16 years. Jim led one of the 14 high school athletic departments and was an asset to the school community when he was Vice Principal. His passion for physical education, sports, and health and wellness has helped so many students from Newark excel in sports as well as academia.
Jim brings the same fire and tenacity to South Orange Middle School by assisting students in becoming the best version of themselves that they can be. He works assiduously at instilling values in students such as collaboration, work ethic, and academic excellence. His positive and supportive attitude is what inspires both the staff and the students!