Clifton Mourns
With heavy hearts, the Clifton, New Jersey community mourns the sudden passing of Dalia Shalabi, principal of Clifton’s School Eleven. Known for her warmth, integrity, and unwavering commitment to students, colleagues, and parents, she passed away unexpectedly this week, leaving behind a legacy that will endure in the halls she helped shape and the lives she touched.
🕊️ A Life of Service and Leadership
Dalia served as principal at School Eleven with passion and purpose. In her role, she was the driving force behind numerous educational and anti-bullying initiatives, fostering a safe, inclusive environment where every student felt seen and supported. Whether developing new curricula, mentoring teachers, or welcoming families, her leadership was both compassionate and transformative.
Her efforts garnered deep respect from the Clifton Public Schools administration and her peers. She was more than an educator—she was a trusted friend, mentor, and role model to many.
💬 Words from the Community
“Dalia had a rare gift for connecting with people,” shared School Eleven’s assistant principal. “Her open-door policy wasn’t just symbolic—students and parents truly felt heard and cared for.”
A parent echoed this sentiment, recalling a moment when Dalia intervened on behalf of a shy child struggling with reading. “She stayed after school every day until his confidence and grades improved. That’s who she was: always putting kids first.”
🌿 Community Reaction and Remembrance
Following the news of her passing, tributes have poured in. Classrooms held tearful vigils, and Lancaster Avenue filled with flowers, drawings, and heartfelt notes from students. Though sudden, the outpouring of love confirmed just how deeply Dalia’s presence resonated throughout Clifton.
At School Eleven, counselors have been made available to support students and staff. Gratitude has also been extended to local and national anti-bullying organizations for offering resources during this challenging time.
📚 A Lifelong Educator
Dalia’s path to leadership began in her early days as a teacher, a role she embraced with enthusiasm and empathy. She rose through the ranks—classroom teacher, curriculum coordinator, assistant principal—each step marked by dedication and innovation.
Colleagues remember her as a mentor who inspired emerging educators. “She taught me how to balance discipline with encouragement,” said one teacher. “Her belief in me changed my career.”
🖤 Family and Funeral Details
Dalia is survived by her loving husband, daughter, and close-knit extended family. Funeral arrangements are being finalized; a memorial service honoring her life and contributions to education will take place at School Eleven next week. The entire community will gather to celebrate her accomplishments and share stories of the positive impact she had on so many lives.
🌟 Legacy for Generations
Though her time with us ended too soon, Dalia’s legacy will continue to light the way at School Eleven. In the coming months, the school district plans to establish a “Dalia Shalabi Award”—to honor her memory by recognizing educators who embody her compassion, leadership, and commitment to student well-being.
A memorial scholarship is also being discussed, aimed at supporting graduating seniors entering education programs, ensuring Dalia’s dedication to teaching uplifts future generations.
💐 Concluding Thoughts
The loss of Principal Dalia Shalabi is felt deeply—not only in Clifton, NJ, but also in every life she shaped through her leadership, kindness, and passion for learning. In the silence of the classrooms she loved, her influence will be remembered, her example emulated, and her spirit carried forward by the countless students, families, and colleagues who were fortunate to know her.
May her memory be a blessing and her legacy inspire all who follow in her footsteps.
the Sudden Loss of Beloved School Principal Dalia Shalabi