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Ramapo Indian Hills Board of Education Welcomes New Superintendent Ronnie Tarchichi

Ramapo Indian Hills High School

A New Era for Ramapo Indian Hills Schools

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Oakland NJ, In a decisive move, the Ramapo Indian Hills Board of Education has appointed Ronnie Tarchichi as the new superintendent of schools. The unanimous decision came during a special meeting held on Tuesday, marking a significant transition for the district.

Background and Qualifications

Ronnie Tarchichi joins Ramapo Indian Hills from the Pennsauken School District in Camden County, where he has served since 2016. Tarchichi, who grew up in Philadelphia, described himself as “a product of urban education” during his tenure at Pennsauken. His extensive academic background includes:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Exercise Physiology from West Virginia University
  • Master’s Degrees in Physical Education and Exercise Science, Educational Leadership, Biology, Biomedical Science, Special Education, and Learning Disabilities
  • Doctorates in Education and Educational Leadership from Rowan University and Temple University

Contract Details

Tarchichi’s contract includes a comprehensive compensation package:

  • First-Year Base Salary: $280,000
  • Health Benefits: $28,416
  • Miscellaneous Benefits: $13,300
  • Sick and Vacation Compensation: $25,769
  • Total Package: $345,485

By the end of his five-year contract, Tarchichi’s total salary package will increase to $393,786.

Leadership Transition

Tarchichi will take over from interim Superintendent James Baker, whose contract was set to expire on July 1. The board voted 7-0-2 to terminate Baker’s contract without explanation, with board members Audrey Souders and Melissa Kiel abstaining. Tarchichi is scheduled to assume his new role in July.

Interim Superintendent Appointment

In the interim, Melissa Quackenbush, Director of Curriculum, has been appointed as interim superintendent by a narrow 5-4 vote. Trustees Tom Bogdansky, Brian DeLaite, Aaron Lorenz, and Helen Koulikourdis voted against her appointment.

Board Dynamics and Upcoming Meetings

The special meeting raised eyebrows as it was held on a Tuesday when the district was closed for an extended Memorial Day weekend. Originally, the announcement was expected at the regular Thursday meeting. The agenda listed only a closed session, followed by a potential action on the superintendent position.

The board’s next scheduled meeting will take place on Thursday, where further discussions and decisions are anticipated.

Challenges and Future Prospects

Tarchichi’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Ramapo Indian Hills, following a period of significant turnover and board disagreements. Former Superintendent Rui Dionisio left in November to lead the Fair Lawn School District, where his starting salary was $265,000. His departure was one of several high-profile exits in 2023, including the resignation of the Busch Law Group as general counsel and the departures of Business Administrator Thomas Lambe and Director of Curriculum Elizabeth McDermond.

Looking Ahead

As Ronnie Tarchichi steps into his new role, the Ramapo Indian Hills community looks forward to a period of stability and progress under his leadership. His extensive experience and academic credentials position him well to guide the district through its next chapter.

 

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