KRISTIN QUIGLEY RUSSELL

Kristin has worked at The Connection since September of 2000 when she began as an afterschool assistant director.  She went on to become an afterschool and summer camp director, birthday party leader, youth class instructor, dance instructor, group fitness instructor and special events coordinator. Kristin grew up as a lifelong competitive dancer at the Summit School of Dance. Kristin studied and competed in ballet/pointe, tap, jazz, lyrical, modern, hip-hop and even twirling.  Her background in dance has led her to her career in dance-based fitness programs.  She is licensed to teach Zumba® (basic 1 & 2), Zumba Gold®, Zumba Kids® & Zumba Kids Jr.®. She is also a certified willPower & grace® instructor and trained in Barre Fusion.

In addition, Kristin is an educator by career. She holds NJ Certifications as an Elementary Education Teacher, Special Education Teacher, Middle School Math Teacher, Learning Disabilities Teacher Consultant (Educational Diagnostician), and most recently, a School Supervisor. Kristin holds Bachelors Degrees in Elementary Education, Special Education and Psychology from the College of St. Elizabeth. Kristin obtained her Master’s Degree in Special Education from Kean University as well as Post Master’s certifications in Supervision and LDTC.  Kristin is currently working on her second Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership and obtaining her Principal’s Certification also through Kean.  Kristin has worked throughout Union and Essex county as a Special Education Teacher and Educational Diagnostician (LDTC) for special education students in both public and private schools. Kristin is currently the Child Study Team Coordinator/Manager for the Union County Educational Services Commission.

In her spare time, Kristin is a certified Educational Services Representative and Independent Consultant for Usborne Books & More where she helps to spread literacy to children of all ages.

Most notably, Kristin is the proud mommy to James and Joseph, and wife to her husband Michael!