Matawan-Aberdeen district eliminates posts

MATAWAN- Changes in job titles and elimination of a position are part of economic restructuring in the Matawan-Aberdeen Regional School District during the past few weeks.

According to district Superintendent Richard O'Malley, the district needed to refocus priorities and save some money.

"We eliminated the two directors of math and language arts positions and the assistant superintendent position as well," O'Malley said. "These positions were not new, just restructuring and a savings to the district."

Assistant Superintendent Kimberly Honnick was not recommended for reappointment for the 2008-09 school year, O'Malley said.

However, three employees were named to new posts.

Jessie Zitarosa was promoted to the position of director of elementary, Julie Glaser is now the director ofmiddle school, and Margaret DeLuca was appointed director of secondary education.

Patricia Janover, who stepped in as acting principal for former Principal George Hart, was appointed principal for the 2008-09 school year at the K-5 Ravine Drive School by the Board of Education.

"The board made the decision based on my recommendation," said O'Malley. "The board conducted an interview process and I recommended her. I feel very confident that she will be an excellent leader for that school."

O'Malley cited Janover's interaction with students, parents and other stakeholders in the school as a motivating factor.

"It seems a natural fit for her to now become the principal at Ravine Drive," said Patricia Demarest, president of the Board of Education.

According to Demarest, Janover was a gifted-and-talented program teacher and is well liked by parents and teachers.

Also appointed to a permanent principal position was Matawan Regional High School's acting Principal Michelle Ruscavage, who stepped in after the exit of former Principal Michael D'Anna last September.