Ellisa Katrece Clark- Rawls

Ellisa K. Rawls, ABD serves as the Executive Director of Ryder’s Room, bringing more than twenty years of experience in early childhood education, family advocacy, and community-centered leadership. A Newark native with a deep commitment to service, she has dedicated her career to supporting children and families—especially those navigating unique developmental, educational, or special needs—through compassionate leadership, empowerment, and evidence-based practices.

 

In her role at Ryder’s Room, Ellisa leads with vision, integrity, and a heart for service. She oversees organizational strategy, family outreach, program development, and community partnerships, ensuring that Ryder’s Room continues its mission of uplifting and supporting families across New Jersey and beyond. Her leadership is anchored in equity, empathy, and the belief that every child deserves access to high-quality support, advocacy, and celebration.

 

Ellisa’s professional journey reflects a broad range of leadership across education, nonprofit, and community sectors. She currently works within the Middlesex County Boards of Education, specializing in early childhood programming, family engagement, and inclusive practices.

 

She also serves as a Leadership Mentor for Program for Parents NJ, supporting the growth and development of future emerging educational leaders within urban communities. Ellisa is a proud AmeriCorps volunteer and advocate, championing service, community engagement, and equitable access to resources for families.

 

Her previous leadership roles include serving as Director of Education for the Unified Vailsburg Service Organization, where she collaborated closely with Newark Public Schools to strengthen instruction, elevate program quality, and support comprehensive early childhood initiatives. She has also served as Founder and Director of Genesis Learning Place, educator at Blessed Sacrament School, and childcare leader with Tri-City Corporation and New Life Childcare.

 

Ellisa is academically grounded with multiple credentials. She holds:

 

• Bachelor of Science in Psychology – Fairleigh Dickinson University

• Master of Arts in Teaching – Fairleigh Dickinson University

• Master of Education (M.Ed.) – College of Saint Elizabeth

• Currently completing her Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership (ABD status) – St. Elizabeth University

 

She is also a certified New Jersey Teacher, certified Teacher of Students with Disabilities, and holds a New Jersey Supervisor Certification.

 

Her professional affiliations include the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), Kappa Delta Pi International Honor Society, the New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association (NJPSA), and she is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She is a graduate of the Executive Leadership Program at Rutgers University.

 

A respected ministry leader, Ellisa serves as the First Lady of The St. Paul Church in Atlantic Highlands, NJ, where she leads Women’s Ministries and provides guidance, support, and pastoral care alongside her husband, Rev. Dr. Brian Rawls Sr.

 

Ellisa has been recognized for her leadership and service by the City of Newark, the New Jersey State Assembly, Mayor Ras J. Baraka, Senator Cory Booker, the Unified Vailsburg Service Organization, and the Delta Pi Chapter of Phi Delta Kappa. She is also a recipient of the New Jersey Pastors’ Wives Award.

 

Above all, Ellisa is a devoted mother to her son, Brian Rawls Jr., who remains her greatest joy and inspiration. She approaches every aspect of her work with warmth, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to helping children and families thrive.