Citta Takes Over As Toms River Regional Superintendent

TOMS RIVER, NJ — A new chapter begins Monday for the Toms River Regional Schools, one that Superintendent Mike Citta says he promises to make bright for staff and students alike.

Citta, who was named superintendent in February after a 15-month acrimonious search for a successor for David Healy, hopes to put the turmoil in the past.

In a letter to staff, students and the Toms River Regional Schools community on Friday, Citta said he will "work tirelessly to foster a rich, relevant and rewarding educational journey for current students and those of future generations, one which — like my own experience — creates a love of learning and forges lifelong relationships."

Citta received a four-year contract with a salary of $215,000 that is prorated through June 30, and will remain at $215,000 for the 2022-23 school year. After that, he will receive raises of 2 percent per year, according to the contract.

In his letter, Citta said there has been plenty of work going on behind the scenes to prepare for the transition to his leadership.

"Even with decades of in-district experience under my belt, there is always something new to learn," Citta wrote.

Stephen Genco, who has been serving as interim superintendent since July 2021, will remain in an advisory role for the short term, which was established by the board when Citta was named superintendent.

At Wednesday's school board meeting, board members and residents praised Citta as they welcomed the approval of the appointment of Kevin Raylman to take over as principal at Toms River High School South as of July 1, filling Citta's previous position.

"You'll have big shoes to fill," speakers and board members told Raylman.

Citta, in his letter, was a bit circumspect, calling the appointment as superintendent a great honor and at the same time saying he felt "humble disbelief" at the fact that his life had come full circle, from kindergarten student to high school graduate to teacher, administrator and now superintendent.

"I find some symbolism in the fact that this new role begins now, as spring has finally sprung and the exciting homestretch of the school year begins," Citta wrote. "The future is indeed bright, and it's my job to keep it that way, which is a responsibility I don't take lightly."

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