Our Staff

Janina is originally from Lawrence, MA, and graduated from Springfield College with a degree in Psychology. She is currently pursuing her Master’s in Social Work. With more than 12 years of experience working with children and teens ages 3–18 in classrooms, after-school programs, and summer camps, she is passionate about supporting young people’s academic, social, and emotional growth.

Outside of work, Janina enjoys playing recreational softball and volleyball, staying active at the gym, and relaxing with puzzles and word searches. She brings the same energy, teamwork, and curiosity to her work with teens every day.

Taj joined ABC Andover in February 2025 as a Resident Assistant, bringing years of experience supporting at-risk youth in Roxbury. A native of the Greater Boston area, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Bridgewater State University and her MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology.

With more than 25 years of experience in accounting, administration, and operations, Taj also serves as an Accountant and Office Manager for a boutique law firm. She is passionate about ABC Andover’s mission to expand educational opportunity and foster a supportive, empowering community for Scholars — and she loves seeing the Scholars grow and discover their potential.

Jerika is the METCO Coordinator and School Adjustment Counselor at Coolidge and Parker Middle Schools in Reading, MA. She has over 10 years of experience supporting children and families across group homes, clinical settings, and schools, including work with Big Brothers Big Sisters, DCF, and The Home for Little Wanderers.

Passionate about creating safe and empowering environments where every student can thrive, Jerika is also active in promoting inclusion through initiatives like Multicultural Night and A World of Difference. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Salem State University and her Master of Social Work from Regis College. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, reading, trying new restaurants, and spending time with family and friends.