National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc., Visits Sovereign Avenue School During Eastern Region Conference in Atlantic City

ATLANTIC  CITY – The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc.,visited Sovereign Avenue School on Friday, April 24, 2026, as part of the organization’s Eastern Region annual conference.

Educators from across the Eastern Seaboard were welcomed with breakfast before touring the building.

Superintendent of Schools, Dr. La’Quetta S. Small, a member of the local Chapter, Iota, commended the organization for its leadership. “I am continually inspired by our organization as we champion the advancement of education, mentorship, and leadership,” Small said. “Our dedication to uplifting communities by consciously supporting the academic and personal growth of our students is not only commendable — it is essential.”

Sovereign Avenue School Principal Nicole Israel said she was proud to showcase the positive work happening at the school. “As a member of the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc., I am excited to have members of the Eastern Region visit,” Israel said. “It is extremely important because they pour into our community. To be selected as a school for this visit is truly an honor and an opportunity for our students to shine.”

The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc. (NSPDK) is a nonprofit educational sorority founded by eight African American educators to promote the highest ideals of the teaching profession. The organization was established on Good Friday, March 30, 1923, at the Jersey City Normal School in Jersey City. 

The local chapter, Iota, is lead by Lynda V. Browne-Kidd and the regional conference host chapter, Delta Lamba, is led by Ellen Simpson-Ford.

Dr. Lakecia Hyman, the Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for the Atlantic City Public Schools, who is a member of the Delta Lamba chapter, helped organize the school visit. Student ambassadors from Sovereign Avenue School welcomed guests upon arrival and escorted them to the media center for refreshments. The visit included a tour of the school’s esports gaming lab and student presentations highlighting the seventh- and eighth-grade Amistad curriculum.

The Amistad legislation requires students to learn about the Mid-Atlantic slave trade and the contributions of African Americans throughout history.

Ahsaan Moore presented a project on the Harlem Renaissance. “African Americans took a stand against inequality and racism,” Moore said. “They decided to speak about it and put meaning into their music.”

The Harlem Renaissance was a period marked by a flourishing of African American culture, as writers, poets, artists, and musicians created works that continue to influence generations.

Other students presented projects on Michelle Obama, the history of Juneteenth, and several additional topics.

Terry Wood, of the Beta Chapter in Washington, D.C., said she was impressed by the visit.

“I’ve never been in a public school in Atlantic City, so I wanted to come and tour,” Wood said. “I’m glad I did. I have thoroughly enjoyed myself.”

Small noted that many educators at Sovereign Avenue School are members of the sorority, and their commitment is reflected in their work with students. “The vital work we do resonates far beyond the classroom, shaping futures and strengthening the foundation of our society,” Small said.

To see our gallery from the National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Inc., visit click the link: https://photos.app.goo.gl/MftGUph1t45b61zH7