Maranzano: 'Take Action to Improve'

Dr. Charles Maranzano Jr. is tasked with a big job.

The superintendent runs a in blue-collar Hopatcong. State aid has been cut drastically over the years. Various factors have led to declining enrollment.

But Maranzano hasn't shied away from the burden. Here's a little bit of background on the borough schools leader.

How long have you worked for Hopatcong? What do you like most about this community? Three school years 2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12.  Employed September 1, 2009. The outstanding feature of Hopatcong is the compassionate families who are committed to creating athletic and altruistic opportunities for their children in our community, and for their strong support for a quality educational system.

What community and civic organizations are you currently involved in? I am a former Rotarian and Ruritan from my years as a school administrator, but am currently not a member of any specific organization.  I like to support many organizations like the scouts or sports programs in any capacity that I can.

What drew you to your profession and what do you find most interesting about the work you do? What I loved about my personal years in high school was the opportunity to participate in many athletic and activities programs and the great role models that the teachers were to me. I decided then to make a contribution to public education by becoming a teacher.  Little did I know that in a sense I would never actually “leave” school behind me upon graduation, but rather live it for the rest of my working years.

What personal and professional accomplishments are you most proud of? Attaining four college degrees including my Doctorate from the College of William and Mary are a personal triumph, and leaving the schools I worked for in better shape as a result of my contributions a professional triumph.

Who is most influential in your life? My family has shaped who I am today.

What person—professionally or personally—do you most admire? I always admired those who stood up for what they believed in and people who are able to create a new future based on their convictions: Martin Luther King is high on my list.

What are key ways other people can make a difference locally? People are the change agents they seek. Everyone needs to look deep inside for the answers to complex problems in our lives and then take action to improve things.