file photo of former Superintendent Thomas McBryde
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
HACKENSACK NJ , the Hackensack Board of Education has officially appointed Andrea Oates-Parchment as the acting superintendent of schools, following the recent suspension of Superintendent Thomas McBryde.
The decision was made during a heavily attended board meeting held at Hackensack High School to accommodate concerned parents, staff, and residents. Oates-Parchment, who previously served as assistant superintendent, brings years of experience as a former teacher and principal within the district.
🔄 Leadership Change in Hackensack Public Schools
The abrupt leadership transition comes just months after McBryde began his tenure in January 2024, under a three-year contract valued at $263,000 annually. McBryde was placed on administrative leave on June 12, after consultation with board members, legal counsel, and representatives from the New Jersey School Boards Association, according to board president Jennifer Harris.
While Harris declined to reveal specific reasons for the suspension due to state personnel confidentiality laws, she emphasized that all non-conflicted trustees unanimously supported the decision.
🗣️ Community Reaction & Board Assurances
During the meeting, community sentiment was divided. Some parents and community members expressed frustration about the lack of transparency, while others offered full support for the board and Oates-Parchment’s appointment.
Harris addressed the community, saying:
“Our primary focus remains unchanged: providing excellence in education for every student in our district. The day-to-day operations of our schools will continue without interruption.”
🧳 McBryde’s Departure Details
According to Harris, McBryde returned all district-issued materials and had already packed his personal belongings ahead of time. The process was handled professionally and privately, after school hours to ensure discretion.
The board immediately asked Andrea Oates-Parchment to step into the acting superintendent role. The following morning, she met with staff alongside Harris to reassure faculty and maintain district stability during the final days of the academic year.
🔥 Response to Critics
Harris also took the opportunity to respond to former board members who publicly criticized the decision, saying:
“Rather than support the district, they’ve chosen to traffic in innuendo, rumors, and social media gossip to serve their own personal agendas.”
She urged the community to focus on supporting students and staff as the district transitions leadership and concludes the academic year.
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