Meet New School Superintendent Kenneth Rota

Although Kenneth Rota does not officially take over as the new school superintendent until July 1, he has already spent several weeks getting to know his soon-to-be district office staff, principals, teachers and PTA members.

On Wednesday evening, a healthy cross section of the community including parents, students, and school staff members attended an informal meet-and-greet with Rota at the Paramus Community School Art Gallery, which was sponsored by the Paramus School Board.

Joanne Bergmann, VP of the Board, pointed out how Rota’s appointment is closely aligned with what lies at the core of the community – a great education.   

“Paramus doesn’t have a Main Street. The schools are our Main Street,” explained Bergmann, who has served on the board for 24 years. “There are always activities here in the school buildings or the fields. And great schools are great for real estate.”

According Sharon Bower, a school board member for 20 years, people move to Paramus for two reasons, schools and lower taxes. Bower believes Rota will move the district forward because he matches their mission statement – "To develop all students as open minded, lifelong learners who pursue their dreams and add value to the world".  

“We needed someone who is well rounded,” said Bower. “His philosophy and experience with high school and all levels is a great match.”

 on May 7 after the current superintendent, .

Rota currently serves as superintendent in East Rutherford, which is a smaller school district than Paramus.

“Paramus is a great career opportunity,” said Rota. “It’s a high quality district, a great community, and the reputation of the district speaks for itself.”

Compared to East Rutherford, a K-8 school district with approximately 800 students, Rota will have a significantly higher student population in Paramus with about 4,000 students.

Prior to East Rutherford, Rota was the principal at Glen Ridge High School, which he noted is one of the top performing schools in the state. He also served for a brief stint as the interim superintendent of that school district, which is comprised of almost 2,000 students.

“I’m looking forward to getting involved in different activities [in Paramus] and as a spectator of the band, music, sports, athletic and academic programs,” Rota said.

“As far as improving, I need to get into the district and see," Rota added. "There are always things that can be improved and changed, but as I said, Paramus is a top notch district, and it’s tough for me to pick one thing off the top that needs to be worked on. I need to meet with the people who are doing things to find out where things are going."