Superintendent's Corner

Dear Hasbrouck Heights Families:

As we prepare to begin a new school year, I am deeply honored to introduce myself as the Superintendent of the Hasbrouck Heights School District.

Since my family and I have called Hasbrouck Heights home for many years, my connection to this community is both personal and deeply meaningful. My children attended our schools, and I have had the privilege of serving the District as a member of the Board of Education. These experiences have provided me with a firsthand understanding of our community, our schools, and the people who work so diligently to support the success and well-being of every student. They have also strengthened my commitment to serving Hasbrouck Heights with dedication, understanding, and a genuine appreciation for the values that make this community special.

I also bring more than two decades of experience as an educator and school leader. I began my career as a classroom teacher and later served as an elementary school principal, and for the past thirteen years, as the principal of Veterans Middle School in North Arlington. Throughout my career, I have remained guided by a simple principle: schools function best when students come first, employees understand what is expected of them, families receive clear and reliable communication, and decisions are made thoughtfully and responsibly.

In the months ahead, I am committed to listening carefully to our students, staff, families, Board of Education, and community partners. I will spend meaningful time in our schools, learn from the dedicated individuals doing this important work each day, and work collaboratively to identify both the practices and traditions that should be preserved and the areas where greater coordination, support, and improvement are needed.

I believe lasting progress is built through clear expectations, meaningful collaboration, accountability, and mutual respect. I am committed to approaching this work with an open mind, a willingness to learn, and a strong dedication to ensuring that our decisions and efforts reflect the needs of our students, staff, and the Hasbrouck Heights community.

I look forward to maintaining a constructive relationship with our Mayor, Council, HHPD, and other municipal partners. The schools and the Borough serve the same community, and a cooperative relationship benefits our students, families, and taxpayers.

Our district has experienced considerable change in recent years. With change, however, comes an opportunity to create greater stability, rebuild confidence, and move forward with a shared sense of purpose. I am optimistic about what we can accomplish together.

Thank you for the trust you have placed in me. I look forward to welcoming our students and staff back to school and to beginning this next chapter alongside the community that my family and I are proud to call home.

Kind regards,

Ms. Nicole C. Russo