Our Team

Transitioning into the role of Principal at Haven Middle School is an incredibly meaningful step in my journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue serving a school community that I care deeply about. Having served as Haven’s Assistant Principal for the past five years, I have had the opportunity to build deep relationships with our students, staff, and families while helping shape many of the systems and supports that define our school community today. I am excited to continue building on the incredible work already happening at Haven while helping guide our next chapter together.

I am originally from New York and spent much of my life and professional career on the East Coast. I earned my undergraduate degree from College of the Holy Cross, completed my graduate studies in Education at Northwestern University, and later pursued Educational Leadership through the Summer Principals Academy at Teachers College, Columbia University.

What drives my passion for education is the belief that middle school is one of the most important and transformative periods in a child’s life. Students at this age are developing confidence, learning resilience, discovering their identities, and finding their voices. I strongly believe schools should be places where every student feels known, valued, challenged, and supported. Relationships are at the center of meaningful learning, and the strongest schools are built through authentic partnerships among students, families, and staff. My leadership is grounded in visibility, relationships, teamwork, clear communication, and creating a school community where students and staff genuinely enjoy being together each day.

The best way to reach me is via email, whether it is to connect, ask a question, or coordinate an in-person, virtual, or phone conversation. I look forward to all that we will build together as we continue to grow Haven into an even stronger, more connected, and student-centered school where every learner can thrive.

Dr. Seraj brings a wealth of experience as a middle school educator, instructional leader, and advocate for equitable systems that support the success and growth of all students and staff.

Dr. Seraj began her career as a middle school English Language Arts teacher in Chicago Public Schools, where she spent 10 years developing meaningful relationships with students, fostering a love of literacy, and helping students become confident communicators and critical thinkers. She has also served as an Interim Assistant Principal at Bridge Middle School in Chicago Public Schools and as an Assistant Principal at Devonshire Elementary, gaining valuable leadership experience supporting teachers, students, and school communities.

Dr. Seraj holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Miami University in Secondary Education with an English Language Arts focus, a Master of Arts degree from Northeastern Illinois University in Elementary Education with a reading focus, and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership from Capella University, where her work focused on equitable systems and restorative practices.

Dr. Seraj’s passion for education is rooted in her belief that schools are strongest when both educators and students are continuously learning and growing. She believes that when teachers are supported through collaboration, reflection, and coaching, they are better equipped to inspire meaningful learning experiences for students. She is deeply committed to helping students become confident learners, critical thinkers, and compassionate global citizens by fostering high expectations, strong relationships, and a culture of continuous improvement.

Outside of school, Dr. Seraj enjoys spending time with her husband and their 9-year-old twins, Oliver and Ophelia. She is an avid reader (and proudly says she LOVES to read!), enjoys traveling, spending time outdoors, and watching documentaries.