A True Homecoming: Upper Saddle River Names Dave Kaplan as New Superintendent of Schools
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
UPPER SADDLE RIVER, NJ — For Dave Kaplan, stepping into the role of Superintendent of Schools feels less like a new arrival and more like a homecoming. Having dedicated the past 28 years of his career to local education and the Upper Saddle River community, Mr. Kaplan has officially taken the helm to lead the school district into its next chapter.
The Upper Saddle River Board of Education approved a three-year contract for Mr. Kaplan, which began on July 1, 2026, and runs through June 30, 2029.
Decades of Dedicated Leadership & Local Roots
Mr. Kaplan brings nearly three decades of hands-on educational experience to his new leadership role as a teacher, administrator, and community advocate:
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Educational Foundation: After graduating from Ohio University with a degree in Elementary Education, Mr. Kaplan began his teaching career in nearby Ridgewood, NJ, teaching 4th and 5th-grade classrooms.
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Leadership Growth: While teaching, he earned his Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership, preparing him for administrative excellence.
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23 Years at Bogert School: Shortly after completing his graduate degree, Mr. Kaplan was appointed principal of Bogert School in Upper Saddle River—a leadership position he held with distinction for 23 years.
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Superintendent Appointment: In 2026, building on his deep roots as Bogert principal and assistant superintendent, Mr. Kaplan was named Upper Saddle River’s Superintendent of Schools.
A Student-Centered Vision for the Future
Central to Mr. Kaplan’s educational philosophy is the belief that students must remain at the heart of every decision. As superintendent, his goal is to build on Upper Saddle River’s strong educational framework while introducing innovative strategies to prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
“I am excited to lead the district into the future, building on the strong foundation already in place while working collaboratively to ensure students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, confidence, and character to thrive.”
Working in partnership with the Board of Education, faculty, staff, and district families, Mr. Kaplan aims to enhance academic programs, foster character development, and support student success across all grade levels.
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