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RIVER VALE, N.J. – Holdrum Middle School has a new assistant principal with a strong background in science and a deep commitment to supporting students, teachers and families.

The River Vale Board of Education voted to appoint Julieann McKeary as assistant principal effective July 1 at its June board meeting. She will take over for Alyson Puzzo.

“I’m truly looking forward to getting to know our students, staff, and families on a deeper level,” said McKeary in a statement the district shared with Pascack Press on July 9. “I believe that strong relationships are the foundation of effective leadership, and I’m excited to begin building those connections from day one. Establishing trust, listening with intention and being fully present are priorities for me as I begin this journey with our school community.”

McKeary began her career in education in 2017, working as a middle school science teacher for Haworth Public School. While at Haworth, McKeary also helped write the curriculum for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). Her most recent role was teaching seventh-grade science at George Washington Middle School in Ridgewood, where she also had administrative responsibilities that included analyzing student performance data and developing interventions to support student success.

“I’ve always been passionate about growth and student success, and over the years, I realized that I wanted to make an impact not only in the classroom but also at a broader level,” said McKeary. “Becoming an assistant principal will allow me to support students, teachers and families in a new way, whether it’s through building a positive school culture, supporting instruction, or helping solve challenges as they arise.”

McKeary earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from the American College of Education, a master’s degree of education from Rutgers University, and a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in education from Rutgers.

“Mrs. McKeary is dedicated to ensuring all our students thrive,” said Superintendent of Schools Melissa Signore. “Her passion for education and commitment to community engagement will benefit the staff, students and families at Holdrum.”

During the multiple rounds of interviews, the committee members were inspired by McKeary’s vision for education and passion for innovation that will prepare students for success beyond the classroom.

Beyond her career in education, McKeary likes to stay active and is a certified personal and group fitness trainer. She leads fitness classes at Orangetheory in Ramsey and has coached JV and varsity girls soccer and softball teams. McKeary likes taking long runs and is currently training for the Philadelphia Marathon. She said she and her husband enjoy dining out and are always on the hunt for new restaurants to try.

— Via River Vale Public Schools

RIVER VALE, N.J. — Christopher Kirkby has been named the next principal of Woodside Elementary School, marking a homecoming for the River Vale native who once walked the halls of Roberge and Holdrum schools as a student.

The Board of Education appointed Kirkby to the role, effective July 1, at its June meeting. He succeeds Justin Jasper, who has served as principal since July 2021 and will remain through the end of the current school year.

Kirkby brings with him more than two decades of experience as a teacher, coach, and administrator. Most recently, he was principal of West Ridge Elementary School in neighboring Park Ridge. He has also led George Washington School in Edgewater, and both Luther Lee Emerson and County Road Schools in Demarest.

“As the newly appointed principal of Woodside, I’m dedicated to fostering student growth, supporting teachers, and building inclusive school communities,” Kirkby said. “I believe my experiences at River Vale Public Schools set me up for success in high school, college, and beyond. I’ve been fortunate to work in some great districts, but returning to River Vale is a full-circle moment.”

Superintendent of Schools Melissa Signore—who preceded Jasper as principal of Woodside—welcomed Kirkby’s appointment.

“Mr. Kirkby brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to student achievement,” Signore said. “His leadership will continue to strengthen the mission and values of Woodside School.”

During the hiring process, committee members were impressed with Kirkby’s vision for cultivating a strong sense of community and igniting a passion for learning to prepare students for future success.

“It becomes more and more important each year to give our students the tools they need to achieve success,” Kirkby said. “It’s also important to instill in them the resilience to bounce back from mistakes and face challenges that do not go their way.”

Outside the classroom, Kirkby is active in youth sports. He coaches his children’s baseball and basketball teams, once even wearing a microphone for ESPN while coaching his son during the Junior Little League World Series. He also serves on the boards of the Hillsdale Baseball Softball Association and Hillsdale Hoops Association.

“More than a professional milestone, Mr. Kirkby’s return is a testament to the impact our schools can have on students,” Signore said. “We’re confident he’ll inspire a new generation of leaders.”

Kirkby holds a bachelor’s degree from Xavier University and a master’s in educational administration from Montclair State University. He began his career teaching in River Edge.

— Via River Vale Public Schools