The Hunterdon Central Regional High School Board of Education has picked Jessica Cangelosi-Hade as the district’s new superintendent.
After a thorough search process, with valuable input from the community, the decision was finalized unanimously at the board meeting on August 19.
And on August 24, 2024, Cangelosi-Hade officially started her new role, taking over from interim superintendent Charles Shaddow.
Charles had been in the role since March, after the previous superintendent, Jeffrey Moore, left for a job in New York.
Charles expressed his confidence in Cangelosi-Hade, saying, “I truly believe moving forward that you are in tremendous leadership, capable leadership, compassionate leadership, intelligent leadership hands with Ms. Jessica Cangelosi-Hade.”
Cangelosi-Hade has nearly 20 years of experience in education, and she’s been with Hunterdon Central for the last five years.
Initially joining as the director of curriculum and instruction in August 2019, she was later promoted to assistant superintendent of curriculum and human resources in November 2023.
During her tenure at Hunterdon Central, Cangelosi-Hade expanded the school’s academic programs, adding 40 new dual enrollment courses.
Additionally, she played a key role in developing the school’s magnet programs and managed staff evaluations and mentoring.
It’s evident that Cangelosi-Hade’s efforts have paid off, as Hunterdon Central is now ranked the 14th-best high school in New Jersey and the second-best among comprehensive, non-competitive admission schools.
Board member Lori Blutfield praised her for developing and leading the district’s emerging leaders program, which has helped nurture the next generation of leaders within the school.
Before joining Hunterdon Central, Cangelosi-Hade worked at the Hunterdon County Vocational School District from 2012 to 2019.
There, she served as the supervisor of curriculum and instruction before later becoming the director of curriculum and academies.
In addition, she was the principal of several vocational academies, including Biomedical Sciences, Computer Science and Applied Engineering, and Environmental Sustainability and Engineering.
Her work in these roles included creating new career and technical programs, as well as incorporating green energy topics into the curriculum.
Cangelosi-Hade’s career in education began as a science teacher with Teach for America and, later, at Somerville Public Schools.
She holds a bachelor’s degree from Villanova University, a master’s degree in secondary science education from Pace University, and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Concordia University.
Not to mention, she’s currently working on her doctorate in educational leadership.
As she enters her new role, Cangelosi-Hade shares her excitement and commitment to the Hunterdon Central community.
“Hunterdon Central is an incredible community, one that has been very special to me for the past five years,” she said.
“Stepping into the role of superintendent here is an honor. I am deeply excited to continue to work alongside our dedicated educators and staff to continue advancing our academic programs and ensuring that every student has access to the best possible high school experience. I look forward to further engaging with the board, staff, students, parents, and the community to build on our strengths and fulfill our district mission.”
Cangelosi-Hade is known for her authentic, compassionate leadership style and strong work ethic, which have earned her the respect of her colleagues.
Sue Duggan, the acting president of the school board, praised Cangelosi-Hade, saying, “JMs. Cangelosi-Hade is a hard-working, authentic, and compassionate leader. In her five years at Hunterdon Central, many have witnessed her dedication, engagement, and vision toward making our district what it is today. Her promotion is a testament to her valuable contributions and the respect she has earned from all of us.”
With Cangelosi-Hade in charge, Hunterdon Central is in good hands and ready to continue providing top-notch education for its students.
Her experience, commitment, and vision make her the perfect leader to guide the district into the future.
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