Michael Ballone Named District Superintendent In Marlboro

MARLBORO, NJ — Michael Ballone is now superintendent of the Marlboro Township Public School District, the school board announced, citing his deep knowledge of the district and his rapport with students, staff and the community.

Ballone has been serving the district as acting superintendent since May of this year. Before that, he was assistant superintendent, a position he assumed in 2019.

As a supervisor of several content areas, then director of curriculum and instruction, Ballone developed a "thorough knowledge of the school district and deep understanding of
its staff and stakeholders," the board said.

And his interaction with students and the community was another factor in the board's choice: "Having been a student teacher, then teacher of English Language Arts, Mr. Ballone demonstrated a rapport with students and the community that is a hallmark of his tenure in the district," the board said.

The board is especially pleased to promote from within, said Board President Christina Russotto.

Ballone's ability to "foster trust through his transparent and collaborative decision making, along with his familiarity and expertise in all areas of our wonderful school district, made this decision apparent,” she said.

Ballone was named to the top spot at the Sept. 26 regular board meeting. The board is working on the terms of a tentative contract, which will be finalized at a public meeting in the near future, the district said.

He became acting superintendent upon the resignation of Superintendent Eric Hibbs in May, who is now superintendent of the Washington Township district, Gloucester County, according to the district website.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Board of Education for entrusting me with this next step," Ballone said of his new role at "MTPS," Marlboro Township Public Schools.

"It is an important role, for it is the ultimate vantage point from which to view the district and its future. I am deeply committed to the values of MTPS, and I am eager to move forward collaboratively with the Board of Ed, teachers, staff, students, parents and guardians, and the larger Marlboro community to continue advancing the district's goals," he said.

He also thanked his colleagues throughout the district for their encouragement.

"Your phone calls, emails, conversations, and positive thoughts have been welcomed and appreciated along the journey," Ballone said.

He said that the "firm base that already exists in MTPS makes us ready to launch into new heights of achievement and success in the future. I am excited to lead the district in providing the highest quality education for all of our students and in supporting the professional growth and development of our dedicated staff.”

Marlboro Township Public School District serves approximately 4,500 students in the district, ranging from preschool through grade 8. In 2022, Frank Defino Central Elementary School in the district was recognized as one of the 2022 National Blue Ribbon Schools in the Exemplary High Performing School category from the U.S. Department of Education.

To learn more, visit MTPS.org.