Outgoing Regional School Chief's Work Will Have 'Impact for Years'

Mackey Pendergrast may have only led the West Morris Central Regional High School District for three years, but his work will last much longer, board of education members agreed.

At the district’s school board regular meeting on March 16, eight members of the governing body (Chester Township’s Marcia Asdal was absent) formally approved Pendergrast’s resignation from the district, but not before commending the administrator’s work.

“I want to extend my gratitude for the work you’ve done,” said Mendham Borough representative Brian Cavanaugh. “Thank you for accelerating the expansion of technology in the district and for the expansion of the IB program.”

Pendergrast said the last three years as the district’s leader have been the most rewarding of his career, which include 15 years of teaching, being a guidance counselor, and administrator at West Morris Regional.

“This is a great opportunity for you,” said Mendham Township representative Rob Strobel, “and I’m glad for you. Your doings here will have an impact on the district for years to come.”

Pendergrast was named the Morris School District Superintendent on Feb. 23, and his duties there will begin June 1, with his last day at West Morris Regional scheduled for May 31.

Said Washington Township’s Joe Galayda, one of the longest-tenured members of the board, “[Because of Mackey] I’m proud to have my children come to this school.”

The search process for a new superintendent has already begun, with the board vetting recruitment firms who specialize in the practice.

“Timing-wise, we don’t know how long this will take,” said board president Gary Lakritz. “This is likely a four-month process, at least. We need to search now, and look forward to the search. This will be our legacy.”

The board’s next meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 27 at Mendham High School at 7 p.m.

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