RIVER VALE, N.J. — Christopher Kirkby has been named the next principal of Woodside Elementary School, marking a homecoming for the River Vale native who once walked the halls of Roberge and Holdrum schools as a student.
The Board of Education appointed Kirkby to the role, effective July 1, at its June meeting. He succeeds Justin Jasper, who has served as principal since July 2021 and will remain through the end of the current school year.
Kirkby brings with him more than two decades of experience as a teacher, coach, and administrator. Most recently, he was principal of West Ridge Elementary School in neighboring Park Ridge. He has also led George Washington School in Edgewater, and both Luther Lee Emerson and County Road Schools in Demarest.
“As the newly appointed principal of Woodside, I’m dedicated to fostering student growth, supporting teachers, and building inclusive school communities,” Kirkby said. “I believe my experiences at River Vale Public Schools set me up for success in high school, college, and beyond. I’ve been fortunate to work in some great districts, but returning to River Vale is a full-circle moment.”
Superintendent of Schools Melissa Signore—who preceded Jasper as principal of Woodside—welcomed Kirkby’s appointment.
“Mr. Kirkby brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to student achievement,” Signore said. “His leadership will continue to strengthen the mission and values of Woodside School.”
During the hiring process, committee members were impressed with Kirkby’s vision for cultivating a strong sense of community and igniting a passion for learning to prepare students for future success.
“It becomes more and more important each year to give our students the tools they need to achieve success,” Kirkby said. “It’s also important to instill in them the resilience to bounce back from mistakes and face challenges that do not go their way.”
Outside the classroom, Kirkby is active in youth sports. He coaches his children’s baseball and basketball teams, once even wearing a microphone for ESPN while coaching his son during the Junior Little League World Series. He also serves on the boards of the Hillsdale Baseball Softball Association and Hillsdale Hoops Association.
“More than a professional milestone, Mr. Kirkby’s return is a testament to the impact our schools can have on students,” Signore said. “We’re confident he’ll inspire a new generation of leaders.”
Kirkby holds a bachelor’s degree from Xavier University and a master’s in educational administration from Montclair State University. He began his career teaching in River Edge.
— Via River Vale Public Schools