'Compassionate, Humble': East Brunswick Mourns Death Of Former School Superintendent

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — Former East Brunswick School Superintendent, Jo Ann Magistro-Stankiewicz died on Aug. 18, after a four-month battle with cancer. She was 78.

Magistro-Stankiewicz was the first and only woman to be appointed as Superintendent of the school district. Under her leadership, the school district earned its “Blue Ribbon” status.

On Monday morning, East Brunswick Mayor Brad Cohen announced the passing of Magistro-Stankiewicz, calling her “a pillar of the community.”

“Having worked in the district for over 40 years, Dr. Magistro is an example of someone who truly worked her way up in our system. Her experience in the classroom, social services, and administration gave her a sense of connection with all the students, parents, fellow teachers and support staff, administration, and the community,” Cohen said.

“Always known for her unassuming intelligence, humility, and understanding, she was able to solve difficult problems in a pragmatic and non-confrontational manner.”

Magistro-Stankiewicz began her career at the school district in 1971 as a guidance counselor. She took up many roles at the school district, including elementary school principal and the first female vice principal for East Brunswick High School, before moving on to become Superintendent.

Cohen said her influence is seen and felt everywhere in school culture and the district’s numerous achievements over the decades.

“It was these qualities that made her an easy selection for Superintendent of the district- the first and only woman to hold that position in our history. Jo Ann led with confidence, but never condescending. She was critical and demanding, but never unfair or punitive. She was compassionate for those that needed an extra hand, provided guidance and boundaries to those who just needed encouragement and direction, and she was unwilling to settle for mediocrity from those who she knew were capable of so much more,” he said.

In 1999, Magistro-Stankiewicz was the Superintendent of Student Services when the Columbine High School massacre took place. In the aftermath of the tragic shooting, Magistro-Stankiewicz forged a strong relationship with the township’s Office of Emergency Management and the Department of Public Safety.

“She knew that there was no greater responsibility than the safety and well-being of the students and staff in the 11 schools in our district,” Cohen said.

“Through the years and into her tenure as Superintendent, she worked to be at the forefront of school security. This commitment stands to this day, with our district frequently being the pilot or model for public school security.”

The Mayor went on to credit Magistro-Stankiewicz for many innovative and award-winning programs in the district, including the opening of full-day kindergarten, and the strong commitment to the arts.

Magistro-Stankiewicz retired after the 2012-2013 school year. She continued to keep in with friends and colleagues at the school district. The Board of Education dedicated the Performing Arts Center at Hammarskjold Middle School (now Upper Elementary School) in her name in 2015.

“Dr. Magistro's legacy will echo through the halls of each of our schools for many years to come,” Cohen said.

“On behalf of a very grateful community and for someone I considered a friend and mentor, may her memory always serve as a blessing.”

She is survived by her husband Hank Stankiewicz, her son, Henry (36), daughter, Liz (33), daughter-in-law, Jenna (33) and her granddaughter, Sierra (2). Henry

Magistro met Stankiewicz while working at the school district. He is a former EBHS teacher.

Both her children followed in her footsteps, with Henry being a professor at Kean University and Liz a counselor at Churchill Junior High School, according to her obituary.

Services will be private. At a later date, the family will host a Celebration of Life where all who knew Magistro will be invited. In lieu of flowers, a scholarship fund has been set up in Magistro’s name.

To donate, click here and mention “In memory of Dr. Jo Ann Magistro” in the “payment description” field.

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