Lawrence Schools Approves 2 New Appointees In Admin Reconfiguration

LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ — Lawrence Township Public Schools (LTPS) recently appointed two new director positions. Both appointees are current LTPS educators.

The appointments were made during the April 17 Board of Education meeting

Current Slackwood Elementary School principal Jeanne Muzi will step into the new role of Director of Student Achievement, Equity, and Opportunity, and current Supervisor of Guidance, Melanie Fillmyer, will assume the title of Director of School Counseling and Student Supports. They will begin in their new roles on July 1.

Following the retirement announcement by Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Clifton Thompson, the district underwent a reconfiguration of administrative responsibilities.

As a result, the new Director of Student Achievement, Equity, and Opportunity will report to Rajneet (Pimmi) Goomer, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, and the district will see the Director of School Counseling and Student Supports reporting to Vanessa Bekarciak, Assistant Superintendent for Student Services.

“The newly established positions will enhance our ability to provide equitable opportunities and support student well-being and achievement,” said Superintendent Robyn Klim.

Muzi, current principal of Slackwood Elementary School, referenced Jim Collins’ book From Good to Great in her decision to move from Slackwood Principal into this new role. “I believe this is the right seat for me during this critical time in the District’s history,” Muzi said. “In all my years in Lawrence, this is by far the most innovative, data-driven direction for which the district to move. I could not be more excited to play a pivotal role in ensuring student success and equity during this transformation and beyond.”

Muzi has served on many state education committees and panels, and has presented at local, state and regional conferences on STEM/STEAM, higher-order questioning, cultivating creativity, engagement techniques, and technology integration.

Muzi holds degrees from Eisenhower College of the Rochester Institute of Technology, Rider University and the Riley School of Education at Walden University. She earned her administrative certifications through the NJEXCEL program at the NJ Principals and Supervisors Association.

Fillmyer has spent eight years as Supervisor of Guidance and Testing Coordinator. She has created several processes and programs that support students’ and staff’s well-being. Fillmyer also oversees crisis intervention and support services, coordinating efforts to provide counseling and grief services for students, staff, and our families when a traumatic event occurs.

She holds degrees from Widener and Rutgers University. She earned her administrative certifications through the NJEXCEL program at the NJ Principals and Supervisors Association. She obtained her Standard Principal Certification during her time as a high school Assistant Principal prior to coming to Lawrence.