Obituary of Dolores Rich-Ollie

Dolores Ollie, Principal, Harriet Tubman Elementary School Dolores Ollie, the principal of the Harriet Tubman School in Newark, has been an educator for thirty-three years and has served as a vice-principal, federal program coordinator and teacher in Newark public schools. A graduate of Newark's Arts High School, Ms. Ollie completed her undergraduate studies at Florida A&M University and her graduate studies at Seton Hall University. Ms. Ollie has spent her entire career in public service. She has been recognized locally, statewide, and nationally as a school administrator. During her tenure, students of the Harriet Tubman School have consistently demonstrated exceptional progress and graduates have distinguished themselves at the most prestigious public and private high schools and universities in the nation. Many of Ms. Ollie's students have graduated from St. Benedict's Prep. Selected by Redbook Magazine in 1993 as the best school in New Jersey, the Harriet Tubman School recently received a twenty-thousand dollar Performance Recognition Award from State District Superintendent, Dr. Beverly Hall, for outstanding student achievement during the 1996-97 school year. In addition, Ms. Ollie was featured in Parents Magazine as the recipient of the 1996 "As They Grow" Award for Education. An active participant in community affairs, Ms. Ollie is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Newark Boys Chorus School, New Jersey SEEDS, The Youth Consultation Service and the Public Schools Principals Association of Newark, New Jersey. She is also a member of the Organization of African-American Administrators. A believer in community service for students, she is currently planning a student exchange and outreach initiative as part of a church rebuilding and arson prevention program. Inspired by her learners, Dolores Ollie has delighted in creating projects that challenge teachers and students to excel and, with the support of her outstanding staff, has established a culture of success at the Harriet Tubman School. She was the beloved mother of David P. Oliver and his wife Erica. Loving grandmother of Brendan and Madison Oliver. Dear sister of Steven and James Rich. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the Memorial Service at St. John's Episcopal Church, 55 Montclair Ave, Montclair on Sat, September 26th at 11:00 AM. Interment Private.