JACKSON – Nicole Pormilli, the assistant superintendent of schools in the Jackson School District, has been named the district’s new superintendent of schools.
Pormilli will succeed Stephen Genco as superintendent. Genco is retiring at the conclusion of the 2019-20 school year.
Board of Education members voted to name Pormilli superintendent on March 18 and announced the hiring in a press release issued on April 15.
In a statement, the board said, “In any other reality, we would have put out advanced notice and announced this information right after the board voted at their March 18 meeting to approve (Pormilli’s) appointment.
“However, in this reality of COVID-19 and its consequences, nothing about our March 18 meeting was as it should have been. Our efforts and attention were focused on getting our students and staff set up and acclimated to remote learning plans and getting supports and services in place.
“Given these pressing priorities, Mrs. Pormilli’s appointment announcement was put aside so we could focus on our students and staff. Now, as we get ready to take a well deserved breath for spring break, we are able to take a moment to recognize this wonderful news,” the board said.
According to the press release, Pormilli has had a 28-year career in education, including nine years as an assistant superintendent and 15 years of central administration experience. She is a former literacy teacher.
“I have been fortunate enough to work with and learn from Dr. Genco and so many others and I am honored to have been appointed to this position,” Pormilli said. “Jackson is a very special place and it is truly a privilege to take on this responsibility.
“Jackson has excellent educators, administrators and staff members who believe deeply in educating and supporting children in every way.
“I look forward to keeping the tradition of Jackson excellence while also developing in areas that will provide the skills students need for future success. Together, we will continue to raise our students up so they have the brightest futures possible,” she said.
Board President Michael Walsh said, “We looked long and hard to find exactly the right person to guide us through what we know is an ever-changing landscape and we found it right here in Jackson.
“(Pormilli’s) strong background in curriculum and years of experience have allowed her to develop a clear vision for how to best serve our students and staff. We are fully confident in her ability to lead us into the future,” he said.
Genco said, “It’s very difficult to leave a district, staff and students I love, but knowing I am leaving them in such capable hands makes it a bit easier.
“I have worked with Mrs. Pormilli for nine years and she is truly one of the most competent and caring professionals I have ever had the pleasure of working with. I am sure she will continue to foster all the characteristics that make Jackson such a special place,” the superintendent said.
