Daniel J. Ross, Esq., was appointed as the Superintendent of Dunellen Public Schools in June 2022 and officially began his tenure in the district on August 22, 2022. A press release regarding Mr. Ross's hiring can be found below. 

Upon his arrival in Dunellen, Mr. Ross established three values that serve as the pillars for the district's success:

• Building Relationships
• Creativity and Innovation
• Small Town Vibes  

These foundational elements led to many new initiatives and structures during the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years and serve as the foundation for the District Goals, which have served as the driving force for the aligned framework that exists throughout the organization. The District Goals for the 2024-25 school year focus on the following areas:

1. Academic Success and Data Use
2. Student Wellness and School Climate
3. Operational Efficiency
4. Community Engagement

Since 2022, Mr. Ross and his team have substantial expanded student support services, including the hiring of additional counselors, interventionists, ESL teachers, and other staff, and has added direct support for staff through a partnership with Urban Assembly, instructional coaching, and a revamped approach to teacher-led professional development. Improved assessment and data collection practices highlight the district's focus on providing a tiered system of supports for all learners for both their academic success and their social-emotional well-being. For the 2024-25 school year, Mr. Ross has also added a Community Parent Involvement Specialist, who will coordinate services for school families; two School-Based Wellness Coordinators, who will help provide more intensive support for students in need; and a District Security Coordinator, who will organize school safety and security processes and activities throughout the district.

On May 28, 2024, Mr. Ross presented the district's inaugural State of the Schools address. This presentation is a thorough look at a wide range of district and school factors, including enrollment trends and demographics, academics and assessment, climate surveys, and school rankings and ratings. The recorded presentation and slide deck are available for review.  

Mr. Ross continues to lead work with his administrative team, staff, and the Board of Education to improve systems, processes, and structures within the Dunellen Public Schools. We encourage you to stay engaged with the district to learn more about these efforts!