Many years ago, I learned that education is fundamentally a personal endeavor. Before all else, a superintendent must establish a relationship with the community he serves. This relationship is vital to successfully providing students with an education that has a positive and lifelong impact. As I become familiar with the Rockaway Township Schools and meet the residents, it may be beneficial for the community to know something about me and understand what experiences I bring to the district and how these experiences will benefit our students.

Upon graduation from high school and very unsure about my future, I matriculated to Maritime College to pursue a career in the Merchant Marines. Later, as a young officer aboard ships, I was fortunate to travel extensively. I learned something about the wonderful and diverse cultures that inhabit our Earth, and how effective leadership can inspire a team to meet high expectations, even in the face of challenges and adversity.

My time at sea inspired an interest in philosophy and theology, which led me to Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary where I earned a Master of Divinity and Master of Arts Degrees in Theology. After ordination, I was assigned to Immaculate Conception Parish as Parochial Vicar. Not long after, I was assigned to the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries where I served as Executive Director. From these experiences, I learned to love and appreciate the gifts, talents, and vitality of our youth. Those I had the privilege to serve seemed always hungry to learn and zealous in helping others.

Considering my experiences with young people, the transition from youth ministry to youth education was virtually seamless. I studied special education and educational administration at St. Peter’s College where I received a Master Degree in Educational Administration. I taught students with learning disabilities at North Hudson Academy and after a year, I served as principal of Shepard Academy, a school for students with special needs. After Shepard Academy, I was thrilled to continue my career as superintendent in the small but wonderful borough of East Newark from 2007 until 2012, and again from 2018 to 2022. In between, I held the superintendent positions in Hardyston (Sussex County) and Roselle (Union County).

To keep current with the ever-changing field of education, I decided to continue studying with an interest in educational leadership and curriculum. Ultimately, I received a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from St. Elizabeth’s College.

In additional to my education and experiences, my philosophy and practices are influenced by my personal life. I am married to a high school English / Special Education teacher. Kerry reminds me of what life is like in the “trenches.” To be sure I see things from a variety of perspectives, I listen attentively to Michael, our 12-year-old son who lets me know of the daily trials and tribulations of today’s middle school students. Our family has lived in Morris County since 2008.

Working in K-12 education is a privilege and an extraordinary opportunity to serve our young people by facilitating the development of their intellectual, social, and inter-personal skills thus allowing them to receive and give lifelong happiness. The work can be arduous and the journey unpredictable. My consolation has always come from working with wonderful colleagues and believing that by our dedication and service to students, we can be the ones that change the world. I am excited that the Board of Education has invited me to continue my journey in Rockaway Township.