FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP – The search will begin for a new superintendent of schools in the Freehold Township K-8 School District.
Ross Kasun, the district’s current superintendent, has been named to the top administrative post in the Lawrence Township School District in Mercer County.
The Lawrence Township Board of Education named Kasun superintendent during a special meeting on Aug. 8. He is expected to begin work on Sept. 1. The position will pay $196,584.
The Freehold Township Board of Education held a special meeting on Aug. 13 to accept Kasun’s resignation and to discuss the search for a new superintendent, board President Jason Levy said.
In Lawrence Township, Kasun will succeed Crystal Edwards, who retired in March. He was chosen from among a field of 41 applicants. Six applicants were interviewed by the board’s Superintendent Search Committee and three finalists were selected.
“Dr. Kasun stood out among the field of candidates for his experience as an educational leader, for his strength in collaboration and his passion for education,” Lawrence Township board President Kevin Van Hise said.
Van Hise said Kasun has a track record of making student-focused decisions that support academic success. He said board members believe Kasun will be a “visionary leader and a great match for our students.”
Kasun told the board he is committed to building on the “great work” that has already been accomplished in the Lawrence Township public schools.
“Creating learning experiences focused on the growth of every student is my passion. I was attracted to the diversity of this community,” he said, adding that he wants to work collaboratively “to provide every student with an exceptional educational experience.”
Kasun is in his seventh year as the superintendent in Freehold Township. Prior to that he was the superintendent in the Colts Neck K-8 School District. Kasun began his career in education as an elementary school teacher 23 years ago.
Newspaper Media Group staff writers Lea Kahn and Matthew Sockol contributed to this article.
