Spanish Charter School Appoints Interim Director

HoLa, Hoboken's Spanish language immersion school, has appointed an interim director for the rest of the school year in the wake of the sudden departure of former director Maria Acosta.

The new director, Elizabeth Willaum, has more than 40 years of experience in dual language education and used to work in Englewood, according to a press release from HoLa.

HoLa's curriculum is partially based on what Willaum implemented in Englewood, according to the press release.

The reason for Acosta's departure remains unclear. Barbara Martinez, board member and one of the founders of the school, said the board members are not allowed to speak about personnel matters.

Parents also expressed their worries about whether this would disrupt the school year.

One teacher, who preferred to remain anonymous and declined to comment, has resigned from her position at HoLa since Acosta's departure and the arrival of the new director. When asked if the teacher's departure had something to do with the director's dismissal, Martinez said she could not comment on personnel issues. Martinez did say that the teacher in question is still at the school and working with the new director.

The school has also hired an assistant interim director, Martinez said. This position will be filled by Francisco Cuesta, a former teacher and principal in Elizabeth. The new directors have already started working at the school.