Livingston Board of Ed. Appoints New Superintendent

The Livingston School District has a new superintendent. 

The Board of Education appointed John Alfieri as district superintendent Monday night. Alfieri will have a five-year contract with an annual salary of $167,500.

After the board unanimously voted to appoint the new superintendent, Alfieri signed his contract and gave the pen he used to his son, Matthew. Alfieri,  who will take over in the first few weeks of July, said he was excited to take over as superintendent in a district known for excellence. 

“There is a commitment here to every kid and it shows in all [the district’s] actions,” said Alfieri. “It feels good to be part of a district that I’ve always admired.”

Alfieri, of Randolph, currently is serving as superintendent of the Vernon School District, which has about 3,990 students, six schools, and a budget of approximately $70.7 million. He has additionally directed the district of Clinton as its superintendent, and served as principal of elementary schools in nearby Millburn and West Orange. 

Current Superintendent Brad Draeger will step down after eight years on July 31 and pass the position to Alfieri. Draeger announced his retirement in November and July will mark the end of his 38-year career in public service. 

All five board members spoke favorably of Alfieri and said he was a perfect fit for the district. Board President Ronnie Spring said Alfieri “has proven to be an innovate, collaborative and instructional leader who really leads by example” and has a “commitment to the success of all students.” 

“You are exactly what we are looking for,” said board member Leslie Winograd of Alfieri.

“He understands the value and the values of the Livingston,” said board member David Jasin. 

Alfieri said he will begin his tenure with a 100 days of listening tour, where he will meet with school and parent groups in order to get a better idea of the issues of the day. At the end of the three-month long tour, Alfieri will present his findings to the community. 

“I don’t want to make decisions in a vacuum,” said Alfieri. “I want to make decisions with input.