Bernards Township School Superintendent Is Retiring After 25 Years In District

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township School Superintendent Nick Markarian is retiring after 25 years working in the district.

Markarian shared the news with the community in the district's SOS Express on Friday that he is retiring effective Aug. 31.

"I want to reassure everyone that nothing is wrong! In fact, the district is in a great place, the Board of Education, the staff, and I are all working well together with the community and students to make for an outstanding educational experience," said Markarain.

"I know that I will be leaving at a time when the district is in an excellent position, set up with amazing teachers, parents, administrators, and Board of Education members committed to great outcomes for students. I look forward to my last several months, where I will do everything I can to help ensure the long-term prosperity of the school system I have been privileged to be a part of since 2001," continued Markarian.

The Board of Education will be formally accepting Markarian's retirement Superintendent of Schools at their Monday night meeting.

The news follows Markarian's contract approved in June 2025 to continue serving the Bernards Township School District for five more years.

The Bernards Township Board of Education(BOE) approved Markarian's contract with a salary of $255,000 at the June 16, 2025 meeting. Read More: Bernards Township Superintendent's New 5-Year Contract Approved

In a message to school staff, Markarain shared that "the reasons for my retirement are all good."

"It is just time. I have some dreams to chase in the mountain West and I'll be 55 in September... I'm hoping this body gives me some years to do that chasing, but I know every day is a gift and time flies, so I feel like it is now or never," said Markarian.

Markarian has been with the Bernards Township School District for 25 years. He started his career in Bernards as an assistant principal in 2001.

He moved up to become school principal at William Annin until he later was appointed as Business Administrator.

In 2012, Markarian was appointed Superintendent to succeed Valerie Goger.

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