New Superintendent To Take Charge At Bridgewater-Raritan Schools

BRIDGEWATER, NJ — The Bridgewater-Raritan Board of Education approved the hiring of Robert Beers as the district's new superintendent of schools, effective Aug. 9.

Beers will be replacing interim superintendent Dr. Thomas Ficarra, whose contract is set to end on June 30. When Ficarra leaves, Karen Jones will serve as acting superintendent until Beers begins.

"I would like to thank the Bridgewater-Raritan Regional School District Board of Education for the opportunity in appointing me as the Superintendent of Schools. I am humbled and excited to start this next journey beginning in August," said Beers.

Beers was selected during the BOE's meeting on Tuesday night following an in-depth and rigorous search process of screening 31 applicants by the School Board. Beers went through a three-round interview process.

"His extensive experience prepares him well to be at the helm of our district. Most recently he has successfully led the Manville School District as their superintendent. In addition, he has served as the assistant superintendent at West Morris Regional High School District. He has also been an assistant principal, track, and cross-country coach, as well as a social studies teacher. His breadth of experience in education, more than 20 years, will serve our district well," said Jackie Barlow, president of the BRBOE.

Beers said his first task as superintendent will be to ensure the safe return of students to in-person instruction.

"As we are aware, the pandemic has had a profound effect on families within our educational community, especially our students. My mission as Superintendent is to ensure schools are safe, and operational for in-person instruction at the beginning of the 2021/22 school year," said Beers."Once we clear that hurdle, I welcome the opportunity to lead district initiatives focusing on student wellness, equity, and academic achievement."

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