Students miss Dr. Cokley, who now works at a Christian school

By Alex.O, Jamarion L.

When a better job opportunity was offered to advance his career, Dr. Cokley, a former computer lab supervisor, special education teacher, and Boys 2 Kings mentoring program coordinator at AHS, decided to leave AHS after the 24-25 school year.

Dr. Cokely left because he is now a principal at a Christian school.  According to New Hope Worship Center, who operates the newly opened Christian Hope Academy, “Dr. Cokley brings a wealth of experience in both education and ministry. He holds a Ph.D. in Theology, an M.A. in Christian Counseling, and a B.A. from Morris College. In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Cokley serves as Pastor at Living Waters Christian Center and has previously worked with Airport High School, where he made a lasting impact on students and staff alike.” 

As a black male, an underrepresented group in teacher and admin roles at AHS, Dr. Cokley’s presence was a safe space to many, who saw themselves in him. .  According to the National Center for Education Statistics, about 10 percent of public school principals are Black.

 According to my personal knowledge, havingu been close with Dr. Cokley in the past, he is a married man, he has several pets, and the backyard connects to a football field. 

“He was a good guy,” says one student.  “He makes everybody laugh and he never had a bad attitude.”