New Superintendent Hired For Oxford Public Schools

OXFORD, CT — A longtime school administrator and educator in New York state has been hired to take the helm as superintendent of schools in Oxford.

Dr. Ralph Marino Jr. will assume his new duties effective July 1, 2025. He brings over two decades of progressive leadership in education, marked by significant achievements in student learning, financial management and community engagement, according to a news release from Oxford Public Schools.

Dr. Robert Miller had served as Oxford superintendent since 2021, but resigned effective March 14, citing family reasons.

Marino currently serves as superintendent at Hewlett-Woodmere Public Schools in Woodmere, N.Y., a position he has held since 2015. Prior to that, he was superintendent in the Horseheads Central School District and the Hunter-Tannersville Central School District. His extensive experience also includes roles as a middle/high school principal, assistant principal and classroom teacher across various grade levels, according to the release.

"We are thrilled to have him join us," Oxford Board of Education chairman Robert Carr said. "Dr. Marino brings 24 years of experience as a school superintendent and promises to become a member of the Oxford community. We are excited to have him join our team.."

Marino holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University, an
MBA in management from the University of Massachusetts, and multiple degrees in educational
administration and economics/finance from the State University of New York at Albany and the
College of Saint Rose. He also holds provisional Connecticut Superintendent of Schools
certification along with multiple other Connecticut, Florida, Mississippi and New York teaching
and administrative certifications.

"I am excited to begin working with the Oxford school community," Marino said. "I am passionate about creating an environment where all students can thrive and where collaboration between school, families, and the community is paramount. I look forward to working with the dedicated staff, students, and families to build upon the district's successes and achieve even greater heights."

Throughout his career, Marino has demonstrated a leadership style that embodies visibility, communication, and high expectations, fostering an environment of integrity, inclusivity, and collaboration. He has a record of successful budget management, strategic planning, and enhancing school community climate and culture, with a strategic focus on student learning, according to the release.

The Oxford Board of Education conducted an extensive search with the assistance of Zeal Education Group (www.zeal-ed.com) to identify the best candidate for this critical leadership role. Marino's qualifications and experience stood out among a highly competitive pool of applicants, according to the release.