New School Superintendent Chosen In Bloomfield: Here's Who Will Take Up The Mantle

BLOOMFIELD, NJ — Bloomfield’s schools will soon have a new superintendent, the board of education announced Friday.

Joseph Fleres has been chosen as the next superintendent of the Bloomfield Public School District. The board is expected to formally approve his appointment at its public meeting on March 10.

Fleres is expected to assume the role on July 1, according to a statement from the school board.

“It is an incredible honor to serve the Bloomfield community in this capacity,” Fleres said. “Bloomfield is not just where I work, but where I have grown as an educator and leader. I look forward to continuing our shared work alongside our dedicated staff, supportive families. and exceptional students to ensure that every child has access to an outstanding educational experience.”

Board of Education President Kasey Dudley said Fleres has “consistently demonstrated an unwavering commitment” to the students. staff and families of Bloomfield.

“His collaborative leadership style. instructional expertise, and deep roots in this community reflect the qualities our stakeholders identified as essential in our next superintendent,” Dudley said.

“In a district as vibrant and diverse as Bloomfield. it is critical that our leadership understands and values the many backgrounds. cultures, and experiences that make up our school community,” Dudley said. “The board is unanimously confident that his leadership will provide both stability and continued growth for Bloomfield Public Schools while continuing to uplift and support every student and family we serve.”

Following the board's formal vote on March 10, the district will host a community “Meet and Greet” session on a date to be announced.

The school board provided the following background information about Fleres:

“A dedicated educator and longstanding leader in the district, Mr. Fleres brings more than two decades of public education experience grounded in a deep commitment to students, families, and staff. His appointment reflects the board's confidence in a proven leader whose performance, relationships, and institutional knowledge position Bloomfield for continued success.

“Mr. Fleres has served in numerous roles throughout his career, including classroom teacher. vice principal, principal, director of elementary education, and assistant superintendent for the past seven years. These experiences shaped his belief that strong schools are built by listening, learning, and working together.

“He began in Bloomfield in 2003 as a sixth-grade teacher at Demarest School, where he spent eight years supporting students' academic and personal growth. After serving as a vice principal in the Prospect Park School District, he returned to Bloomfield to lead Brookdale Elementary School for five years before moving into district leadership. In his central office roles, he has partnered with educators and families to strengthen instruction, expand inclusive practices, and ensure every student is supported and challenged.

“Among his proudest accomplishments has been fostering a school culture where students and staff from diverse backgrounds feel a genuine sense of safety and connection. His leadership philosophy centers on collaboration and student-centered decision making, grounded in the belief that all children can learn when provided the right climate, dedicated educators, and strong support systems.

“Mr. Fleres lives with his wife, Donna, and is a proud father to his daughter, Molly, and son, Dominic. who continue to inspire his work on behalf of all students.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.