ENGLEWOOD — Dr. Daniela Small-Bailey, the principal of Dr. John Grieco Elementary School, was among four people killed in a head-on collision in South Africa on July 4, the school district announced in a statement on its website.
Small-Bailey was traveling with her son, Sidanii Bell, who was also killed in the crash. The two were visiting his two children who live there.
The crash involved a white double cab and a marked police car near Dullstroom, South Africa, at 4:20 p.m. July 4, said Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, the acting provincial commissioner of the South African Police Service, in a statement.
Small-Bailey, Bell, a police constable and another woman were killed. The cause of the crash is under investigation, Mkhwanazi said.
Amy Lupardi, an instructional coach in the district, said Small-Bailey was “a pillar of the Englewood Public Schools community,” who had dedicated nearly two decades to the district.
Small-Bailey, an ordained reverend and former head pastor at Bethel AME Church in Passaic, had worked in the district as an assistant principal, and most recently as principal of Dr. John Grieco Elementary School.
“Her career as a school administrator was marked by her vibrant and larger-than-life personality, which brought boundless energy and a relentless drive to every role she undertook,” Lupardi said. “Dr. Small-Bailey’s influence was felt throughout various buildings across the district. Her dynamic personality and unwavering commitment to excellence left an indelible mark on countless students, staff and families.”
Grief counseling services will be available to students and employees in need of support.
“Dr. Small-Bailey’s enthusiasm for education was infectious, her presence in a room was electrifying, and her dedication to fostering a nurturing and inclusive school environment was unparalleled,” Lupardi said. “Her legacy is one of tireless devotion, transformative impact, and a spirit that will continue to inspire us all.”
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