The Princeton Public Schools Board of Education recently held its annual reorganization meeting, where members elected new leaders and outlined priorities for the year ahead.
At the start of the meeting, three board members were sworn in: Mara Franceschi, who started her second term, and newcomers Ari Meisel and Christopher Santarpio, who will serve for three years.
Katherine Lara also joined the board as the new Cranbury representative, replacing Rob Christopher, who moved to the Cranbury Council.
During the meeting, Dafna Kendal was reelected as president of the board for the fourth year in a row with an 8-1 vote.
Although Adam Bierman voted against her reelection, he did not provide an explanation or nominate another candidate for the role.
Kendal is known for keeping the board grounded in what matters: students.
She ensures that the right information is always available and has led big-ticket efforts such as union negotiations, hiring a new superintendent, and steering plans for the upcoming referendum.
Board member Deb Bronfeld, who nominated Kendal, praised her for being a strong leader and advocate for students.
Kendal said the board’s main goal is to focus on students and expressed confidence about the year ahead.
At the same time, Susan Kanter was unanimously elected as vice president.
Since joining the board in 2020, Kanter has been recognized for her thoughtful approach to decision-making and dedication to supporting students.
When nominating Kanter, Beth Behrend praised her leadership on committees and her ability to help move the board’s work forward.
Afterward, Kanter thanked the board and expressed her excitement about continuing to contribute to the schools.
The board also made a major decision by appointing Michael LaSusa as the new superintendent.
During a special meeting attended by over 50 people, the board finalized LaSusa’s appointment, which followed a national search.
Out of 37 applicants, 17 were current superintendents, and the board narrowed the candidates to eight finalists after interviewing 16 individuals.
Because of his extensive experience and leadership skills, LaSusa stood out as the top candidate.
In announcing the decision, Kendal described LaSusa as a proven leader who will help Princeton schools continue to excel.
Having worked in the School District of the Chathams for over 23 years, including 13 years as superintendent, LaSusa brings a wealth of experience to the role.
Starting July 1, he will officially begin his position in Princeton, while Interim Superintendent Kathie Foster will continue leading the district until June 30.
During the meeting, Kendal thanked Foster for her effective leadership since November 2023.
Before officially starting, LaSusa visited all six public schools in Princeton and met with staff, including union leaders, as part of his introduction to the district.
He said he felt warmly welcomed and was impressed by the community’s pride and enthusiasm, sharing that Princeton’s diversity and values drew him to the job.
Jill Weber, a Chatham school board member, attended the meeting and spoke about how much LaSusa had done for her district.
She said Princeton made an excellent choice.
Finally, the meeting ended with a celebration featuring refreshments and cake as the board and community came together to welcome their new leaders.