Title: Principal
Company: Conerly Road School
Location: Somerset, NJ United States

Donna Silva-Burnett was always destined for a career in education. She received a Bachelor of Science in health and physical education, and then obtained a master’s degree from Kean University, before finally, earning a Ph.D. in educational leadership and philosophy from Walden University. Aided by the knowledge she garnered, Dr. Burnett is currently employed in Franklin Township Public Schools as principal of Conerly Road School. During her tenure in Franklin, she has previously served in the capacity of assistant principal for the elementary, middle and high schools. Dr. Burnett also has a strong background in guidance and counseling, and has always found serving youth to be a priority. This continues to be her ongoing mission.Throughout her career, Dr. Burnett has found that her greatest strength is in her leadership abilities. She leads by example to show others how to be good leaders as well. Some of the best moments of her career as an educator have been seeing former students and hearing how they have continued their education. Dr. Burnett enjoys seeing that she has made an impact on their lives, and is constantly being inspired by their stories and successes. Similarly, her greatest accomplishment lies in her school’s achievements. Since she started working at Conerly Road School, the school has grown to become an institution of excellence.

In order to stay involved in the demands and changes of a career in education, Dr. Burnett maintains membership with the American Association for School Leaders. She has also been the elected corresponding secretary for the Franklin Township School Administrators Association from 2011 to present. Her commitment to educating her community and shaping young minds has been recognized with many awards and honors, including the Community Service Award from P.E.A.R.L.S, Inc., the Community Service Award from Alpha Kappa Alpha and the National Sorority Education Citation from Phi Delta Kappa, Epsilon Alpha Chapter. Another noteworthy achievement for Dr. Burnett was retiring as a service member from the New Jersey Army National Guard. When she is not working, she enjoys traveling, reading and watching basketball.

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