A new school year brings so much promise and a world of possibilities! This Fall, we are so excited to introduce a new administration — some familiar faces in new roles, others, brand new to Calais! We look forward to their fresh ideas, creativity, guidance and strong leadership that they will impart to our school community.

John Cohrs: Executive Director

In 2019, John Cohrs joined the Calais family as the Assistant Principal and Supervisor of Curriculum. In 2020, he was promoted to Principal. This Spring, the Calais School Board named John as the new Calais School Executive Director replacing David Leitner who retired on June 30, 2022.

John looks forward to his new role saying, “I’m excited for the opportunity to contribute at this level to a school with such a rich tradition of innovation and therapeutic support. The Calais School has a strong faculty and staff that puts students first and sees the school experience through the eyes of the children. It’s a privilege to be named Executive Director.”

Theresa Fritzky, M. Ed: Principal

Theresa Fritzky joined Calais in August 2020 as the school’s Assistant Principal and Supervisor of Instruction. Prior to Calais, Theresa served as the Supervisor of Special Education for Jefferson Township Schools. She is certified as a principal and a teacher of special education and was named Teacher of the Year while working as a special education teacher in the Mount Olive School District. She will be taking over John Cohrs’ role as Calais’ new principal.

“I am excited and honored to be the principal of The Calais School. I look forward to collaborating with the administrative team as well as the faculty and staff to continue to move the school forward with its mission to help students reach their utmost potential.”

Patrick Cooper: Assistant Principal

Patrick Cooper joined The Calais School this month as the Assistant Principal. He has been an experienced Special Educator for over 10 years, facilitating learning across all content areas. He holds a Bachelor in the Arts of English Literature from Rutgers, and Master degrees in the Arts of Teaching Special Education and in Educational Administration and Supervision – both from New Jersey City University. He is also certified as an English teacher, a teacher of students with disabilities, a supervisor, and a principal. Previously, Mr. Cooper worked at Pequannock Township High School and Spectrum 360.

Mr. Cooper believes that student choice is essential to fostering independence and also advocates for using environmentally sustainable practices whenever possible. He looks forward to working with the students, staff, and administration to create worthwhile educational outcomes.

Please join us in congratulating John Cohrs and Theresa Fritzky in their new roles and welcoming Patrick Cooper to the Calais Family! We look forward to an exciting and transformative 2022/2023 school year!