Board of Education appoints Dr. joseph Cirillo as superintendent

After an extensive and thoughtful search process, the Demarest Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Joseph Cirillo as the new Superintendent of Demarest Public Schools.

Dr. Cirillo brings more than 23 years of experience in education, including 12 years as Superintendent of the Palisades Park School District. He has also served for over 15 years as an Adjunct Professor at Saint Peter's University. His areas of expertise span educational leadership, curriculum development, communication, finance, personnel management and training, and educational technology. In addition, he currently serves as President of the Bergen County Association of School Administrators (BCASA), where he advocates for and supports district-level leaders throughout the county.

A respected keynote speaker at local, state, and national conferences, Dr. Cirillo offers a broad and balanced perspective on on public and private education systems. He is widely recognized for his insight into policy development, strategic hiring, and business operations.

Throughout his career, Dr. Cirillo has embraced and promoted a growth mindset, fostering a leadership style that empowers others to become effective problem-solvers, critical thinkers, skilled communicators, and engaged global citizens. Under his leadership, his former district earned recognition as a model of innovative educational practices, sustainable reform, transformed learning environments, and improved student outcomes.

Reflecting on his new role, Dr. Cirillo shared:

"It is a privilege to join the Demarest community - a district known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and nurturing the whole child. I look forward to building strong relationships with students, staff, families and community members as we work together to ensure every child thrives academically, socially, and emotionally. Together, we will honor Demarest's proud traditions while inspiring new opportunities for growth and success."

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Cirillo enjoys spending time with his wife, Gina, a teacher, and their two sons, Alex and Matthew, both teenage student-athletes.