Dear Wanaque School Community,
I am writing to share an update on the principal search process and to introduce the new Principal of Wanaque School.
We began the process with a strong pool of 61 applicants, including 41 individuals with prior administrative experience. With valuable input from both teachers and administrators, we conducted a thorough review of all applications and moved forward with initial interviews. From this group, we identified four finalists who advanced to the final round.
Each finalist participated in a 60-minute performance-based assessment focused on instructional leadership, followed by a one-on-one interview with me. During the interview, I explored each candidate’s leadership philosophy, expectations, and overall readiness for the role. I also conducted reference and work history checks with colleagues who had worked closely with each candidate. These conversations were instrumental in highlighting the unique strengths of each finalist and ultimately helped clarify who was best suited for the position.
After a comprehensive evaluation, I am pleased to recommend Mrs. Scognamiglio as the next principal of Wanaque School.
Mrs. Scognamiglio brings a powerful combination of experience and familiarity with the Wanaque community. Her understanding of our school’s needs, along with her ability to make thoughtful and informed decisions, will be invaluable. She is widely recognized as a master teacher and brings with her the instructional expertise and coaching skills to support our teachers and enhance classroom practices.
The interview committee consistently described her as a poised, articulate leader with a clear vision and specific goals for Wanaque School. Her priorities—discipline, instructional leadership, and community involvement—reflect what our school needs most at this time. She was praised for being approachable, reflective, and a strong communicator who listens before acting. One committee member noted, “She is already a respected member of the Wanaque community and has demonstrated a strong understanding of the school’s needs.” Her visibility in classrooms, commitment to inclusive practices, and ability to support teachers stood out to everyone involved in the process.
While Mrs. Scognamiglio is still early in her administrative career, her potential is extraordinary. I am confident she will grow into a strong and impactful school leader. I look forward to working closely with her and providing the support and mentorship she needs to be successful in this new role.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we take this important step forward together.
Warm regards,
Matthew J. Murphy, Ed. D.
Interim Superintendent
I am writing to share an update on the principal search process and to introduce the new Principal of Wanaque School.
We began the process with a strong pool of 61 applicants, including 41 individuals with prior administrative experience. With valuable input from both teachers and administrators, we conducted a thorough review of all applications and moved forward with initial interviews. From this group, we identified four finalists who advanced to the final round.
Each finalist participated in a 60-minute performance-based assessment focused on instructional leadership, followed by a one-on-one interview with me. During the interview, I explored each candidate’s leadership philosophy, expectations, and overall readiness for the role. I also conducted reference and work history checks with colleagues who had worked closely with each candidate. These conversations were instrumental in highlighting the unique strengths of each finalist and ultimately helped clarify who was best suited for the position.
After a comprehensive evaluation, I am pleased to recommend Mrs. Scognamiglio as the next principal of Wanaque School.
Mrs. Scognamiglio brings a powerful combination of experience and familiarity with the Wanaque community. Her understanding of our school’s needs, along with her ability to make thoughtful and informed decisions, will be invaluable. She is widely recognized as a master teacher and brings with her the instructional expertise and coaching skills to support our teachers and enhance classroom practices.
The interview committee consistently described her as a poised, articulate leader with a clear vision and specific goals for Wanaque School. Her priorities—discipline, instructional leadership, and community involvement—reflect what our school needs most at this time. She was praised for being approachable, reflective, and a strong communicator who listens before acting. One committee member noted, “She is already a respected member of the Wanaque community and has demonstrated a strong understanding of the school’s needs.” Her visibility in classrooms, commitment to inclusive practices, and ability to support teachers stood out to everyone involved in the process.
While Mrs. Scognamiglio is still early in her administrative career, her potential is extraordinary. I am confident she will grow into a strong and impactful school leader. I look forward to working closely with her and providing the support and mentorship she needs to be successful in this new role.
Thank you for your continued partnership and support as we take this important step forward together.
Warm regards,
Matthew J. Murphy, Ed. D.
Interim Superintendent
Congratulations 8th Graders!
Celebrating Juneteenth: Honoring Freedom, Resilience, and Black Excellence
Hello Warriors. Please be reminded that June 18, June 19, and June 20 are 1:16 dismissal days. The last day of school is June 20. All report cards for students in grades K-8 will be available on the portal starting June 20th. We wish you a happy and safe summer.
Hello Warriors. This is a reminder that Monday, June 2nd is a 1:16 dismissal for all students.
Wanaque School District remembers our fallen heroes.
Good Morning,
This is a correction.
This is a reminder that schools are closed Friday, May 23, and Monday, May 26. Have a great long weekend.
Good afternoon Wanaque & Haskell families. Progress Reports for grades 4-8 will be available on the portal starting a 3:30PM on 5/23/25.
Good morning Wanaque and Haskell families. This is a reminder that schools are closed Friday, April 18th through Friday, April 25th. We hope you have a relaxing break.
This is a reminder that Report Cards for Grades 4-8 will be posted to the portal on
April 15, 2025 at 3:30PM.
Inclusion Week is April 7th-11th in the Wanaque School District. Please join in and show off your inclusive spirit!
Monday- Neon Day
Tuesday- Lucky Day
Wednesday- Sparkle and Shine Day
Thursday- Team Spirit Day
Friday- Inclusion Day
A warm Warrior welcome to Dr. Jessica Stinson, the newest member of our Child Study Team and our new school psychologist! Dr. Stinson brings a wealth of expertise in special education, counseling, and psychological assessments, and we are excited to have her join us.
A Special Thanks to the Wanaque Haskell Education Foundation
A huge thank you to the Wanaque Haskell Education Foundation for their generous donation of LEGO kits! These hands-on learning tools will spark creativity and problem-solving for our students. Speaking of WHEF, please save the date—June 21—for their Casino Night fundraiser. Given the significant financial challenges our district has faced over the past six years, community support and donations like these make a real difference in enriching our students’ experiences.
At Tuesday’s Board of Education meeting, we celebrated Haskell student Dalia for her award-winning essay. Her proud parents, Wanaque VFW Commander Bob Tennant and Janet Hoeland, joined her, making it a truly special moment. Congratulations to Dalia on this outstanding achievement!
Good afternoon. Monday is your lucky day! This is a reminder that Monday, March 17th all students will dismiss at 1:16 for staff development.
This is a reminder that K-3 report cards will be posted on the portal on Friday, March 14th.
This is a reminder that Friday, March 14, 2025 is a 1:16 dismissal.
Good afternoon Wanaque & Haskell families. Progress Reports for grades 4-8 will be available on the portal starting a 3:30PM on 3/12/25.
Wanaque Public School District honors Women's History Month.
Exciting News! 🎉 Our very own Ved Desari, a 7th-grade student, has made us proud by earning 1st place in VFW District #1 (Passaic County) in the Patriot’s Pen competition—and that’s just the beginning!
Why it matters: Out of 3,692 entrants statewide, Ved placed 2nd in all New Jersey! This remarkable achievement highlights his talent, dedication, and passion for writing.
What’s next: Ved was honored at a local awards ceremony at the Wanaque VFW Post and recognized by the Wanaque Board of Education. Join us in celebrating his incredible success! 👏🎖️ #PatriotsPen #StudentSuccess #WanaqueProud
