Longtime student-support director retires; West Orange names Dr. Derek Russa as successor

Connie Salambino, outgoing director of student support services for West Orange Public Schools, announced her retirement at the Sept. 15 board meeting after more than 21 years with the district.

"It is a heart that is with a heart full of gratitude and a touch of bittersweet emotion that I stand before you today," Salambino said, recounting roles ranging from LDTC to principal of the Betty Matalena Early Learning Center and thanking colleagues, families and students.

The board formally introduced Dr. Derek Russa as the incoming executive director of student support services. Russa described a long career in special education and said he would begin his transition this fall and formally start the position in December. "I'm committed to meeting the needs of the whole child'academically, emotionally and socially," he said.

Superintendent Moore and board members praised Salambino's tenure and pledged to support a smooth transition. Moore also highlighted recent work by the special services department, including donated communication boards installed at Redwood and Kelly elementaries to help students with communication needs; the boards were provided with help from the district's parent committee and a former student donor.

The board did not take a separate vote on the administrative appointment at the meeting; Russa said he will continue transition work with Salambino and begin in the new role in December.

Next steps: the district will continue transition activities through the fall and integrate Russa into ongoing special-services initiatives, including communications-board rollouts across elementary playgrounds.