Schools

Mahwah Board Of Education Selects Interim Superintendent

Leonard Fitts will serve in the role as the district continues to plan for the fall semester amid the coronavirus pandemic.

MAHWAH, NJ — Leonard Fitts will step in as Mahwah Public Schools Superintendent during a time of uncertainty for schools across the state.

Fitts received a unanimous vote of approval by the Mahwah Board of Education at a Monday meeting as planning continues for the school's fall restart.

In a Tuesday statement from the district, it was reported that Fitts was selected after a "comprehensive search" which included multiple candidates.

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"Dr. Fitts stood out among the highly qualified field of candidates for his passion and proven track record in making student-focused decisions that support academic success. He has in-depth expertise in curriculum, instructional strategies and models using technology, and innovative professional development programs," the district said in a statement.

Fitts will replace Lauren Schoen, who announced her retirement in June.

Find out what's happening in Mahwahfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

He comes most recently from Burlington Public Schools, where he served in the same role.

According to the AASA, Fitts has worked in school districts for over 40 years as a school psychologist, principal and county superintendent.

In addition to his new role in Mahwah and recent stint in Burlington, Fitts has served as an interim superintendent in West Berlin, Glassboro, Camden and Willingboro.

A meet and greet with Fitts for staff and Mahwah Schools community members will be announced "at an appropriate time."

"The Mahwah Board of Education is immensely proud and honored to welcome an individual of Dr. Fitts’s caliber to the Mahwah community," the district said.

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