Wayne Superintendent Bids Farewell, BOE Prepares To Usher In Replacement

WAYNE, NJ — Wayne Schools’ Superintendent Mark Toback recently attended his final Board of Education meeting, and school officials wished him a warm farewell.

Toback served as the school district’s superintendent for 11 years, the longest stretch anyone has served in the position. In that time, he assisted with the navigation of COVID, the expansion of student support services, the advancement of academic programs, and more.

“As I prepare to close this chapter of my professional journey, I want to take a moment to express my deep gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity to serve as your superintendent of schools,” Toback said. “For the last 11 years, it’s been both an honor and a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated team of educators, school, and district leaders.”

He thanked past and present board of education members, staffers, educators, and the Wayne Township community for their "unwavering dedication” to students.

The board wished their warm farewells and congratulations to Toback as well.

“On behalf of the entire Wayne Board of Education, and all the members over the last ten years, I’d like to take a moment and acknowledge, and celebrate, the retirement of Superintendent Dr. Mark Toback,” Board President Don Pavlak said. “Dr. Toback was guided to our district for a full decade. He’s done it with a remarkable dedication, a truly steady hand, and an unwavering commitment to every student, staff member, and family right here in Wayne.”

Replacing Toback will be David Cittadino, but not before former Assistant Superintendent Donna Reichman returns to the district as interim superintendent from Aug. 1 to Aug. 14.

Cittadino will officially join the Wayne School District on Aug. 15.

“Mr. Cittadino rose to the top of a highly qualified pool of candidates due to his exceptional professional record and his vision for public education," said Pavlak in a statement. "His dedication to students, his deep respect for educators, and his ability to lead with integrity and transparency make him an ideal fit for Wayne.”

Toback emphasized that he is leaving the Wayne School District in "competent hands” under the direction of Cittadino.

“I know leaving the district in competent hands is a nice feeling, so Mr. Cittadino’s capable and experienced hands, and the strong foundation, will continue to support educational excellence,” Toback said. “Please accept my heartfelt thanks for allowing me to be a part of this incredible community… I’ll always carry with me fond memories of my time here in Wayne, and I look forward to seeing the district continue to grow and thrive.”

The first day of school is Sept. 4 in Wayne.