Dirk Phillips named Interim Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Achievement for BHPS

BERKELEYHEIGHTS, NJ - At the August 15, 2024 Board of Education Meeting, the Berkeley Heights BOE approved the appointment of Dirk Phillips as Interim Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Instruction, and Student Achievement effective August 19, 2024 through November 19, 2024.

Phillips joins the BHPS Administrative Staff having served the Glen Ridge School District in a variety of roles for the past 19 years, most recently as Superintendent of Schools from August 2015 until June 2024.

In his role as Superintendent of Schools, Phillips implemented the vision and goals of the Board of Education and ensured compliance with state and federal regulations. Amongst his greatest achievements were that he grew community relationships by meeting and interacting with parent and student groups and community leaders and led the district through three successful NJQSAC reviews. He additionally facilitated the passing of a $24 million bond referendum. He also developed and implemented action plans for District Safety and Security, Special Education and Student Intervention, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and increased the number of Advanced Placement exams administered by 150% by adding additional courses and making courses more accessible to students.

Prior to taking on the role of Superintendent, Phiilips was the Glen Ridge High School Principal from January 2010 through July 2015, a school which hosts 800 students in Grades 7-12. In this role, he created and spearheaded a five-year improvement plan that addressed instruction, classroom environment, online learning, building schedule, and facilities.

Before becoming the High School Principal, Phillips was the Ridgewood Avenue School Principal from July 2004 until December 2009, Assistant High School Principal from August 2000-June 2004, and a Mathematics Teacher from 1995 until July 2000.

Phillips additionally is an adjunct professor at Montclair State University in the Educational Leadership Department and was recognized for Social Justice and Equity Work in Public Schools in April 2024 by Montclair State University. He served as Essex County Superintendent Association President from July 2019 until June 2024. Mr. Phillips was also a well-recognized wrestling coach in the area having been selected the Region 4 Coach of the Year in 2001 and was twice named District 13 Wrestling Coach of the Year.

He earned his Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Business Management from Moravian College, and a Masters of Education in Supervision and Administration from Rutgers University. He additionally holds a School Business Administration Certificate from Montclair State University, The Graduate School.

Phillips shared, "I have already found that the Berkeley Heights staff is passionate and dedicated. I hope to be an effective resource for the administrative team and the faculty. My district-level leadership experience should be helpful as the district transitions permanent individuals into place."

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