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Dr. Patrick McQueeney, who has been serving as the leader of Wanaque schools since 2021, will helm the Westwood Regional School District (WWRSD) come November.
The move was approved at the Thursday, Sept. 26 WWRSD Board of Ed (BoE) meeting. The nine-member board voted 8-0, with one abstention, to execute a contract with McQueeney, asking him to take the lead as soon as possible, but no later than Nov. 27. His five-year contract will begin on Nov. 1.
McQueeney submitted his resignation to Wanaque on Friday, Sept. 27, as his contract has a 60-day notice period, WWRSD BOE President Jay Garcia said.
WWRSD, a K-12 district serving students in Washington Township and Westwood, recently reached a $400,00 settlement with its previous superintendent, Jill Mortimer, NorthJersey.com reports, who announced plans to retire this year, but then abruptly reversed her decision.
"Dr. McQueeney brings an impressive track record and leadership qualities that are vital for success in the WWRSD," Garcia said in a statement to Daily Voice. "He commands a room with humility, speaks straightforwardly, and listens sincerely to those around him. These traits, his communicative skills, and his clear vision for educational excellence make this entire board confident that he is the right leader for our district."
McQueeney comes with more than 20 years of experience in leading and improving public school districts, his bio (attached) reads.
"Known for his forward-thinking and communicative leadership style, Dr. McQueeney is committed to fostering high levels of student achievement and supporting the professional growth of his faculty," his bio continues.
"Dr. McQueeney has a proven track record of improving school systems through the implementation of modern technologies and practices that boost efficiency and effectiveness. He has led the restructuring of leadership teams, introduced innovative software solutions to streamline operations, and fostered a culture of transparency within Board of Education governance. Additionally, Dr. McQueeney has actively worked to expand special education programs, ensuring that all students have access to quality learning opportunities."
McQueeney is a founding member of the New Jersey Association for Educational Leadership (NJAEL), having served as the acting/interim superintendent for Sparta Township Public Schools, prior to his role in Wanaque.
He holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and an M.B.A. from Centenary University and has an M.S. in Materials Engineering from Rutgers University and a B.S. in Physical Science from Rowan University. His passion for education and commitment to excellence continue to shape the future of the schools he leads.
"We look forward to working alongside Dr. McQueeney as he collaborates with administrators, educators, and our community to help our talented students and this district reach new heights." Garcia concluded. "While Dr. McQueeney has already begun his due diligence, he is eager to join our district, meet with staff and stakeholders, and assess our strengths and areas for growth. Together, we aim to continue our mission of providing every student with an exceptional educational journey that prepares them to excel academically, socially, mentally, and emotionally in the WWRSD and beyond.
"The WWRSD BoE and our Westwood and Washington Township stakeholders proudly and enthusiastically welcome Dr. Patrick McQueeney to this Cardinal Community. We are excited for the future and confident that the WWRSD will achieve its full potential under his leadership."
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