Schools

New Principal: Packanack is 'Truly One of the Premier Schools in the District'

Roger Rogalin previously headed up the district's Extended Day program and adult school.

Roger Rogalin said he is very proud to be the new principal of Packanack Elementary School, for several reasons.

“It is truly a neighborhood school,” Rogalin said. “The parents and staff are very involved in the school and the students." 

The Board of Education announced Rogalin’s appointment at its Aug. 18 meeting. Rogalin was previously director of the Wayne Community Programs, a non-profit organization of the Wayne Public School District that includes an adult school and Extended Day program for students.

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Previously, Rogalin published textbooks for McGraw-Hill. He was director of the School Division of the Association of American Publishers, the main trade association for the instructional publishing industry.

Rogalin has advised businesses, non-profit organizations and district administrators on technology, education policy and the implications of the federal No Child Left Behind Act.

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“He has a world of educational experience,” said Interim Superintendent Michael Roth said. “His involvement in developing educational products and curricula makes him very unique. And he has served in administrative capacities before."

Rogalin served on the Chatham Board of Education for more than four years. He was chairperson of the facilities and curriculum committees. He also taught social science. 

Rogalin holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and a educational specialist’s degree in educational leadership, management and policy. His annual salary is $112,000.

Roth hopes that Rogalin will bring some stability to the position. The turnover rate for principals at Packanack has been high in recent years. Two-year principal Celeste Gagliardi from the position in July. 

“When I look for somebody to fill a position like his, I look for someone who is going to be there for four or five years,” Roth said. “Students, especially at the elementary level, need a stable administrator to guide them through a critical time in their educational careers.”

Rogalin said he is glad to be at the school.

“I enjoy working with younger students very much,” Rogalin said. “The school is truly one of the premier schools in the district and I am glad to be a part of it.”


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