Lacey Township High School Dean of Discipline Retires

Michael Shern spent his last day working at Lacey Township High School on Friday, Dec. 23 having breakfast with alumni during Graduate Day, speaking with students and wrapping things up. 

Shern, the school's Dean of Behavioral Management, better known as the Dean of Discipline, has retired after 30 years at the school, spending much of that time as a physical education teacher.

"I coached three sports a year and put in plenty of hours," said Shern, who coached field hockey, basketball and softball. "I'm ready.  I'm making a life choice for my own personal self."

Shern taught in Glen Ridge for six years before coming to Lacey. He had been driving around the area and heard on a local radio station that a new high school was going to open, so he applied for a job. 

When the school first opened there were 600 students and that number has now grown to 1,600, he said.

While Shern was happy being a phys/ed teacher, he applied for the Dean's position seven years ago, which, he said, was a nice change.

"I think if you're firm but fair, you'll do fine," he said.

As Dean of Discipline, Shern said Lacey Township High School is not much different than any other school in Ocean County; there are problems but most students are very good kids.

"It's a great district and staff and great Board of Education," said Shern. You don't hear about all the good things as much as the negative things that get all the headlines."

Shern said he always tried to have fun with the kids and joke around with the staff because "when people are smiling and happy, a lot of things get done."

"I'm going to miss the kids and staff," he said. "I liked coming to work each day."

School principal Will Zylinski said Shern has been an outstanding teacher, coach and Dean who has been a counselor and mentor to the students.

"He's an extremely honest, warm-hearted individual," said Zylinski. "He's left a mark. The kids and alumni remember him and speak highly of him. There is no greater reward for a teacher than that."

Shern said he plans to relocate to Naples, Florida.

"I'm ready to make my move and turn to another chapter in my life," he said.  "I'll have good memories of this place."