RIVER VALE, N.J.—The River Vale School District’s next superintendent is a familiar face to many in the school community.
Woodside Elementary Principal Melissa Signore will 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.
A search is underway for a new leader at Woodside, where Signore has been principal since 2015.
River Vale searched far and wide for a new superintendent before selecting an educator who is already familiar to the school community. In consultation with a professional search firm, the district received and reviewed more than 50 applications. Signore was among seven candidates interviewed for the position.
Signore previously worked with River Vale district teachers in her role as regional instruction and curriculum coordinator at Pascack Valley Regional High School District. The PVRHS Curriculum Office was established to ensure proper preparation for the high school level among Pascack Valley’s four sending districts.
Signore is a trusted educational trainer, particularly in the areas of collaboration, communication, and critical and creative thinking, and she continues to present at local and national conferences.
She has been an inspiring leader at Woodside, developing strategies for 21st century learning, including an innovation period that allows our students in both elementary schools to learn through hands-on projects.
Signore will lead the district at a time of both change and potential. River Vale continues working to safely and effectively serve our students during the pandemic, and looking to the future by planning a bond referendum that addresses critical building needs, student wellness and flexible learning opportunities.
“It’s been a wonderful experience to serve as principal of one of our schools, and it is a privilege to now be able to support the entire district and greater community,” Signore said. “I look forward to working with all stakeholders including our administrative team, teachers, and community to create opportunities for all to thrive.”
The Board of Education consists of President Lorraine Waldes, Vice President Steven Rosini, and trustees Patrice Pintarelli, John Puccio, Deborah Rothenberg, Jason Schlereth, and Virginia Senande.
For more information visit rivervaleschools.com.
— Adapted from River Vale Public Schools update, posted Jan. 6