Rutherford Superintendent Jack Hurley honored as New Jersey Superintendent of the Year

The Rutherford Board of Education used its Nov. 11 meeting to honor Superintendent Jack Hurley after he was named New Jersey Superintendent of the Year.

Board President opened the meeting by announcing Hurley’s statewide award and noting achievements under his leadership, including the 2019 bond referendum and the district’s pandemic response. Vice President Dennis Mazon and board members Diane Jones, Greg Racine, Dennis Healy, Chris Conti and Christina Cole offered tributes praising Hurley’s mentorship, steadiness and fiscal stewardship.

Several district colleagues and representatives described Hurley’s impact in specific terms: Helen Angelides, speaking on behalf of the Rutherford Education Association, said Hurley’s vision has helped make the Rutherford School District “one of the best”; Barbara O’Donnell of the Rutherford Supervisors Association highlighted Hurley’s decisions during the pandemic and his record on program development and construction oversight. Former business administrator Joe Kelly listed accomplishments including in‑house special education programs, full‑day kindergarten and construction projects completed under budget.

Student representation was part of the celebration. Poppy Bimson submitted a written speech that was read by student representative Sarah Iorio, who described Hurley’s influence on student life and extracurricular programs. Hurley thanked the board, staff, students and his family and said the honor belongs to the whole district.

The board said it will memorialize Hurley’s award with a plaque to be placed in a public area at Rutherford High School. The meeting recessed for five minutes so attendees could join a brief celebration and share cake.