7 New Administrators Begin At Wayne Schools This Year; 4 Were Promoted Within District

WAYNE, NJ — As we approach the beginning of another school year at Wayne Township Public Schools, seven new administrators will begin serving in various roles within the district.

The first day of classes for the 2024/25 school year is Thursday, Sept. 5.

School officials recently appointed a new director of technology, supervisor of educational technology, and secondary assistant principal of student support services; new principals for the Early Childhood Center and Lafayette Elementary School; and an assistant principal of athletics for both Wayne Valley and Wayne Hills High Schools.

Four of these appointees already worked for Wayne Schools, said Superintendent Dr. Mark Toback, adding that the district is fortunate "to have excellent candidates to fill such important positions."

"The candidates all have something in common," he said. "They have a history of holding themselves to the highest professional standards and they all have great prior work experiences that will benefit our school system. I am also pleased to note that four of the seven appointees are current school district employees that have been promoted.”

Here is some more information about these administrators and what they will do at Wayne Public Schools:

Suzanne Fioravanti, Director of Technology

"Mrs. Fioravanti has dedicated over eighteen years to supporting and advancing educational technology. With a robust foundation in computer science and a passion for innovation, she has progressively assumed leadership roles within her district, evolving from a Computer Technician to her current position. As the Director of Technology, Mrs. Fioravanti oversees the strategic implementation and management of technology infrastructure, software, and digital learning platforms. She is committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment that empowers both students and educators through the use of technology."

Jessica Shoja, Supervisor of Educational Technology

"Dr. Shoja is an experienced educational leader with a proven track record in integrating technology into learning environments. With over sixteen years of experience across multiple school settings, Dr. Shoja has held a variety of roles including middle and high school social studies teacher, and coordinator/supervisor of social studies, curriculum development, and integrated instructional technology. Her New Jersey certifications include Social Studies Teacher, Supervisor, and Principal. In addition, Dr. Shoja holds a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership and Innovation from Wilmington University, a Master of Science in Education from Fordham University, and a Bachelor of Arts in History also from Fordham. Her advanced degrees and extensive professional experience have equipped her with a comprehensive understanding of the educational landscape and the critical role technology plays in our schools and society."

Patricia Monaco, Principal at the Preakness Early Childhood Center

"Ms. Monaco has been a Preschool/Elementary Assistant Principal for Student Support Services in Wayne since 2017. She earned a Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from the University of Hartford, a Master’s Degree in Special Education:Early Childhood from Teachers College, Columbia University and a second Master’s in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University. She began her career in early intervention and preschool in New York City, moving to New Jersey, teaching preschool for many years and then moving into elementary grades. Ms. Monaco received endorsement in the Tools of the Mind curriculum as a classroom teacher and enjoyed mentoring colleagues.

"Ms. Monaco has developed special programs to address student needs. She has created meeting groups with special education parents and looks forward to the Gathering Spot growing in Wayne. She is an advocate for inclusion and building independence for all students. In her spare time, Ms. Monaco enjoys spending time with her husband, adult children and dog, traveling and reading."

Melissa Avgerinos, Principal at Lafayette Elementary School

"Mrs. Avgerinos has been an Elementary Assistant Principal in the Oradell Public School District since 2021. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from New York University, a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from William Paterson, and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Montclair State University. She began her teaching career in Franklin Lakes, NJ as a Kindergarten leave replacement teacher. From there, she found a home in the Edgewater School District. In the fourteen years she was there, Mrs. Avgerinos taught Kindergarten, first grade, third grade, reading intervention for students in grades 3-6, and the Gifted and Talented program. She also served as the curriculum specialist, literacy coach, and supervised federal programs.

"In her role as principal at Lafayette School, Mrs. Avgerinos aims to help students develop confidence and the ability to work with others. She hopes to empower students to cultivate a growth mindset, take ownership of their learning, and become leaders within the school community."

Richard Pascuito, Secondary Assistant Principal of Student Support Services

"Mr. Pasciuto began his educational career after earning a Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Studies from the University of Hartford. While teaching in the Hackensack Public Schools system, Mr. Pasciuto served as a Lead Teacher for Kindergarten through Second Grade and Teacher of a Behavioral Disabilities Classroom.

"During this time, Mr. Pasciuto continued his academic journey by earning a Master of Social Work from Rutgers University. He then moved to Haworth Public School as a Middle School Special Education Teacher before joining the Hillsdale Public Schools system. At Hillsdale, he served as a Middle School English Language Arts Teacher and Special Education Teacher at George White Middle School, where he took on leadership roles, including active participation in district-wide initiatives, curriculum development, facilitation of professional development programs, and the creation of the Advisory Program.

"These leadership experiences eventually propelled Mr. Pasciuto to seek a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Ramapo College of New Jersey. Over the last year, Mr. Pasciuto has focused on designing, implementing, and evaluating educational programs and services. He looks forward to supporting students, staff, and parents in his new role and continuing to foster a student-centric, growth-oriented learning environment. In his spare time, Mr. Pasciuto enjoys woodworking, teaching yoga, and spending time with his family."

Jason Carcich, Wayne Valley H.S. Assistant Principal of Athletics

"Mr. Jason Carcich brings a wealth of experience to Wayne Valley High School as his career path led him through Theunis Dey Elementary School and George Washington Middle School before settling at Wayne Valley High School. Mr. Carcich continued to advance his education by obtaining two master’s degrees and a principal’s certificate. For the past three decades, Jason has also served as the head volleyball coach for both the girls' and boys' programs, contributing to the athletic and personal development of countless student athletes. During his tenure as a coach, the volleyball program has earned over 800 victories, won three state-sectional championships as well as 17 county titles and 17 conference titles. Jason was also inducted into the Hall of Fame through the New Jersey Scholastic Coaches Association. His dedication to both academics and athletics reflects a passion for cultivating well-rounded individuals who are prepared to handle the challenges of life beyond their high school years."

Ryan Bayley, Wayne Hills H.S. Assistant Principal of Athletics

"Mr. Ryan Bayley has dedicated his career to education and athletics, serving as a special education teacher at George Washington Middle School for 18 years. Throughout his tenure, he has passionately supported students with diverse learning needs, fostering an inclusive and supportive classroom environment. His commitment extends beyond academics as he actively engages with students to ensure their holistic development and success.

"In addition to his role in education, Ryan has been deeply involved in coaching for over 13 years at Wayne Hills and Wayne Valley, where he has coached a variety of sports including boys soccer, ice hockey, girls basketball, boys lacrosse, and golf. His coaching philosophy emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship, guiding numerous teams to championships and instilling a lifelong love for sports in his athletes."