RIVER VALE, N.J.—River Vale Public Schools is pleased to announce that Justin Jasper was appointed principal of Woodside School, effective July 1, at the Board of Education meeting on April 27
Jasper is an experienced school administrator who has served the River Vale community over the past four years as assistant principal at Holdrum Middle School.
During his time at Holdrum, Jasper contributed to leading professional development opportunities for staff, incorporating restorative practices to build a student-centered culture, and advancing instructional technology efforts.
He replaces Melissa Signore, who is tapped to lead River Vale Public Schools beginning July 1. The Board of Education voted to appoint Signore at its Jan. 5 reorganization meeting.
She will take over from Dr. Frank Alvarez, who was named interim superintendent in July 2019 and will stay in that position through the end of this school year.
Prior to joining the River Vale Schools, Jasper was an elementary school teacher in Montvale for 16 years.
During the various interview rounds, committee members were impressed with Jasper’s vision for a nurturing and academically-focused elementary school for students, his understanding of the expectations and challenges faced by teachers and staff, and his openness to engage parents and community members.
Jasper earned a bachelor of science in elementary education and cognitive development from Vanderbilt University, and a master of science in educational technology as well as a master of arts in educational leadership both from Ramapo College.
He’s a life-long resident of Pascack Valley and lives with his wife and two children in neighboring Hillsdale.
—Via River Vale Schools