BOE approves new assistant principal contract

LAVALLETTE — Lavallette Elementary School now has an assistant principal, following the approval of a $97,000 contract for the new position announced at the Thursday, July 18 board of education meeting.

Following an executive session discussion, the Lavallette Board of Education unanimously passed the resolution, which “approve(d) the contract for Michael Hajisafari as school (assistant) principal for the 2024-2025 school year.”

Lisa Gleason, superintendent and principal of Lavallette School, told The Ocean Star that Hajisafari has been a teacher at the school for over a decade.

“Mr. Hajisafari has been a teacher at Lavallette Elementary School for 11 years, most recently as a middle school math teacher,” said Gleason. “For the past three years, Mr. Hajisafari has been the head teacher and supervisor of curriculum and instruction, so this was a natural transition in his leadership trajectory.”

“In his new position as assistant principal, he will continue to oversee our student code of conduct, supervise attendance and work with teachers in enhancing their instructional strategies.” she said.

For his part, Hajisafari said that he has long wanted to assume an administrative role in education, and that the approval of his assistant principal contract exemplifies the board of education’s confidence in his abilities.

“It has always been a dream of mine to become a school administrator and I am beyond excited for this new chapter. I am grateful for the Lavallette Board of Education and their belief in me,” the newly-tapped assistant principal said. “The board of education sets very high expectations for our staff and students and I will continue to support the school’s mission statement, ensure our students are fostered in a safe and inclusive environment, and continue to promote student achievement. We have many exciting things happening at Lavallette Elementary School and I hope to continue to help lead in our school’s strategic plan and surpass expectations of Lavallette Elementary school.”

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