Leadership

Principal

Jessica Lopez is a dedicated Catholic school educator and leader, now in her 13th year with Independence Mission Schools and St. Martin de Porres. Currently serving in her third year as Principal, Ms. Lopez brings a wealth of experience, a deep commitment to student success, and a passion for building a vibrant school community.

She began her career at St. Martin de Porres as a second-grade teacher, a role she held for nine years before transitioning into school leadership as Assistant Principal. Her strong classroom foundation continues to inform her leadership style—grounded in empathy, collaboration, and a belief in every child’s potential.

A proud graduate of Little Flower Catholic High School for Girls, Ms. Lopez earned her bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Temple University. Most recently, she completed her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership through the University of Notre Dame’s Remick Leadership Program, part of the Alliance for Catholic Education.

Rooted in her own Catholic school experience, Ms. Lopez is committed to nurturing strong family partnerships and fostering a joyful, faith-filled learning environment. Outside of school, she enjoys reading, exploring new restaurants, and spending time at the beach.

Assistant Principal

Judy Sima is proud to serve as the Assistant Principal of St. Martin de Porres Catholic School. Before stepping into this role, she spent eight years as a second grade teacher at SMdP. Prior to joining the school, she served as an AmeriCorps teaching fellow, teaching middle school science at a Nativity Miguel model school in New Haven, Connecticut. In addition to her work in the classroom, Judy has served as the school’s after-school clubs coordinator for two years and as a content cadre leader and PLC facilitator with the Independence Mission Schools network for four years.

Judy earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Education from Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia and holds a Pennsylvania teaching certification for PreK through 4th grade. She is currently earning her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership through the Mary Ann Remick Leadership Program at the University of Notre Dame as a member of the 23rd cohort.

Rooted in her own experiences as a struggling learner, Judy is deeply passionate about ensuring all students feel supported and empowered to grow. She chose to serve in Catholic education because she believes in the transformative power of faith-based learning communities that educate both the mind and the heart.

Outside of school, Judy enjoys lifting weights, reading, and spending time with her family and friends.

Dean of Students and Director of Athletics

Franklin Neblett, a North Philadelphia native and alumni of SMDP (Class of 2012) is entering his third year with Independence Mission Schools and St. Martin de Porres Catholic School, and will be entering his first year in the role of Dean of Students and Director of Athletics. Franklin previously taught Social and Emotional Learning in SMDP’s Specials Department and is also assistant coach of our Varsity Boy’s Basketball team.

Franklin recently graduated with his Bachelor of Arts in General/Biblical Studies from Lancaster Bible College. In his free time, Franklin enjoys reading, gardening, sports, and a part-time career in the performing arts.