New Faces, New Roles In Madison Schools As The District Welcomes Back Students

MADISON, NJ — The appointment of a new assistant principal and director of curriculum and instruction comes just in time for the start of the new academic year.

Earlier this year, the Madison Public School District made an announcement regarding the opening of a new assistant principal position at Madison High School.

At a recent board of education meeting, Ryan Scheifler was approved for the position, with a start date of around Oct. 24, according to the board.

Under this position, Scheifler will be responsible for curriculum leadership, building operations support, and oversight of the school's athletics program, among other things.

At a past board of education meeting, Madison Superintendent Mark Schwarz announced that two district employees would be leaving the district before the start of the academic year. One of those staff members was Dan Ross, Assistant Superintendent.

Ross' job was split into separate roles with the intention of hiring someone whose sole responsibility will be curriculum and instruction.

"We are not going to be hiring a replacement assistant superintendent. Instead, we are going to divide up Mr. Ross’s responsibilities… His assignments pulled him between HR and curriculum and instruction,” Schwarz said.

Ross' successor and the new director of curriculum and instruction has recently been announced as Dr. Donna Gallo.

Previously serving as Lawton C. Johnson Summit Middle School's principal, Gallo will stay in that position for the next few weeks to aid in the transition. According to the board, her anticipated start date is also around Oct. 24.

"I just want to say congratulations to Dr. Gallo and Mr. Scheifler. You are officially Dodgers, welcome aboard," Schwarz said.