Livingston Schools To Welcome New Admin Staff Members

While kids in Livingston are probably still dreading the return to school this September, three new district staffers are eagerly looking forward to their first days on the job.

“Times of significant change can be unsettling, but when positions are filled with educators who have a proven track record, it should be reassuring that we have an exceptionally talented staff,” stated outgoing Interim Superintendent Jim O’Neill.

Interim Superintendent

On Sept. 1, Ernest Palestis will take over for O’Neill in the district’s top administrative slot.

According to the district, Palestis previously served as superintendent of the Morris Hills Regional High School District and the Mine Hill K-6 district. He currently serves as interim Superintendent of the Ogdensburg School District, and previously served as interim for the Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District.

Palestis possesses a Doctorate in Education Leadership.

Assistant Superintendent (Curriculum/Instruction)

Pat Boland, the principal of Heritage Middle School, has been recommended to become Livingston’s next Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction, replacing the retiring Mary Oates.

According to the district’s website, the position is responsible for multiple issues that are critical to the ongoing importance of continually updating curriculum from PreK-12 and in all subject areas.

Beginning her career in 1993 as a history teacher at Livingston High School, Boland has also taught AP European History, Global Studies, Modern European History, and AP U.S. History. She served as Supervisor of Social Studies K-8 and Principal of Harrison Elementary School before leading Heritage as principal since 2006.

Assistant Superintendent for Student Services

Lisa Steiger, the principal of Burnet Hill Elementary, has been tapped as the district’s new Assistant Superintendent for Student Services.

Steiger – who has experience as a Learning Disability Teaching-Consultant, a Supervisor of Student Services and an elementary school principal - will succeed Ted Kozlik in her new position.

Photos courtesy of Livingston Public Schools

Photo 1: Ernest Palestis

Photo 2: Pat Boland

Photo 3: Lisa Steiger

Send Livingston news tips to eric.kiefer@patch.com