Cranford Schools Name New Superintendent

CRANFORD, NJ - A new superintendent has been named for Cranford Public Schools.

The Board of Education has announced that Effective January 1, 2026, Mark Cantagallo will assume the role after a comprehensive search that entailed multiple interviews and reference examination. Cantagallo is currently the principal of Cranford High School, a position he has held for the past nine years.

Cantgallo began his career in education as a technology teacher at Maxson Middle School in Plainfield. He then moved on to teach social studies at Rahway High School. Under the administrative realm, his first role came in the form of overseeing referendum projects for the school that are similar to the work being done in Cranford.

“As I enter this next chapter, I am grateful to continue to work in such a caring and tight-knit community," Cantagallo says of the support system around him. "Together, we’ll strengthen our existing partnerships, lead with continued positivity and uphold the tradition of excellence that ensures every student succeeds.”

Superintendent Dr. Scott Rubin, who is retiring at the end of this year after serving for nine, is holding his replacement in high regards

"I am so excited for Mark and for Cranford. Mr. Cantagallo is an exceptionally talented, dedicated, and collaborative leader who cares deeply about this community. It gives me tremendous comfort to know that the district will be in such capable and compassionate hands.”

Cantagallo and his wife are parents to three daughters. He says his success is built on family and teamwork with his colleagues at the schools he's worked in. When he is not working, Cantagallo enjoys spending time with his family outside, working on landscaping and completing carpentry projects.

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