Indian Hill Elementary School Has A New Principal

HOLMDEL, NJ — The Holmdel School Board of Education voted last week to appoint a new principal for Indian Hill Elementary School.

Alicia Farese officially assumed the new post on Friday.

“I’ve hired dozens of principals over the years, and I am confident that Ms. Farese is prepared to take the next step in her career,” said Interim Superintendent Lee Seitz. “Her strong grasp of educational issues, her experience working in Holmdel, and her willingness to make tough decisions made her the right candidate to lead Indian Hill Elementary School.”

Farese moves on from her position as supervisor of humanities in Holmdel.

She started her educational career as a head pre-K teacher and assistant director at the Goddard School in Hazlet. She became an English teacher, dean of discipline, and interim principal in the Sayerville School District. She also worked as assistant principal in the Plumsted New Egypt School District where she was also the district Harassment, Intimidation & Bullying coordinator.

“Since joining the district, Ms. Farese has distinguished herself by demonstrating highly effective leadership and professionalism. Ms. Farese’s leadership skills were particularly impressive given the challenges presented by the Coronavirus pandemic over the last year,” Seitz said.

The superintendent reviewed "dozens" of candidates for the position and was drawn to Farese because of her "integrity, intelligence and energy," as well as her reputation within the community.

“I'm excited to have this opportunity to give back to the Holmdel School community in a meaningful way, as principal of Indian Hill," Farese said. "I thank the Board for their faith and confidence in my ability to lead this school, especially during this critical time as we emerge from this pandemic."