At its public meeting on May 22, 2017 the Glen Rock Board of Education named Bruce Watson as interim superintendent of schools effective July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018. Watson replaces Paula Valenti, Ed.D. who retired from the position on June 30, 2017 after serving one year of her second three-year contract with the district. Valenti worked in public education for 39 years.
According to BOE President Bryon Torsiello, “The Glen Rock Board of Education agreed to move quickly with the process of hiring an interim superintendent. The quick action will allow for the Board to act accordingly in making responsible and professional decisions when deciding the future of the Glen Rock School District with a permanent superintendent. Glen Rock is a unique school district and requires careful consideration when seeking a candidate.”
The interview committee, comprised of Torsiello, Vice President Sharon Scarpelli and trustee Rona McNabola, met with a few candidates during the review process. After the interviews, a unanimous decision was made to offer the interim position to Watson.
“Watson’s management style and experience was displayed in his interview and it was evident that he would be a perfect fit in keeping our district moving forward,” added Torsiello.
Watson comes to Glen Rock from Onteora Central School District in Boiceville, NY, where he served as superintendent since August of 2016. Prior to that, he was Chief School Administrator for the Fair Lawn School District for 15 years. He retired from that position in July of 2016.
Watson’s tenure in Fair Lawn began in July, 1992, when he was hired as School Business Administrator/Board Secretary. He later moved on to the position of Assistant Superintendent-Business/Board Secretary before being named superintendent in July, 2001. Prior to joining Fair Lawn, he worked in the private sector with a focus on computer systems and software. Watson’s early career included stints as business administrator for Ramapo-Indian Hills, Bogota and Northvale. He began his career in education as a Business Education teacher at Bogota High School.
Watson earned his BS/Teacher of Business Education from Fairleigh Dickinson University and his MA/School Administration from Seton Hall University.
He holds New Jersey certifications as School Administrator, Assistant Superintendent-in-Charge of Business, School Business Administrator, Teacher-Business Education and Principal/Supervisor. He is also certified as a Superintendent-School District Leader in New York.
