Summit To Hire Chatham Principal In Human Resources Role

SUMMIT, NJ - A Chatham Elementary School principal has been selected as the Director of Human Resources/Chief Talent Officer for the Summit School District.

On July 11 the Summit Board of Education is anticipated to approve the recommendation of Superintendent June Chang to appoint Robert Gardella and he will begin his role on July 12 or as soon as he is released from his current position.

After beginning his career as an elementary school teacher in Westfield, Gardella has held leadership positions as Assistant Principal and Principal since 2006. He currently serves as the Southern Boulevard School Principal in Chatham where his responsibilities include, but are not limited to, strategic planning, building fruitful community relationships, and managing facilities, finances, programs, and personnel. Additionally, he has a role in planning and delivering professional development opportunities.

Along with others in the school community, Gardella said he was instrumental in beginning many high-impact initiatives such as HOPE Week, a philanthropic relationship with the Yankees, that focuses on community service, as well as partnering with Heart For People to rebuild and support a sister school in Uganda.

“I am proud of all the outreach our staff and students have been a part of throughout the years. Supporting others has always been important to me, and I plan to bring leadership in sustaining the same type of caring culture to the Summit community,” Gardella said.

He said is also very proud to have been part of his school’s achievement of a National Blue Ribbon Award.

As the Director of Human Resources/Chief Talent Officer, Gardella will oversee the recruiting, hiring, and on boarding of all new staff into the district. Additionally, he will be responsible for planning and implementing professional development for both newly hired and current educators. Gardella will work closely with district administrators on many other aspects of district leadership in the areas of policy, staff evaluation, and community outreach.

Gardella credits his success as a leader to active listening and the belief that one size does not fit all.

“My background and experiences are going to allow me to transition into my new role as Director of Human Resources. I will listen and support others’ unique circumstances and needs,” said Gardella. “I am confident that my skills in collaboration and problem solving will add value to the team.”

Gardella earned his bachelor of arts from Providence College and his master of arts from Kean University.

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