When Cranbury School was named one of the top 25 middle schools in New Jersey, I was proud—but also reflective. Recognition like that is wonderful, but I try to meet it with humility. You don’t always know the exact criteria behind such rankings. What truly matters to me isn’t a list—it’s the kindness of our students, their spirit, and the culture we’ve built together. That’s what defines us.
I’ve wanted to be a teacher since third grade. I had this extraordinary teacher who eventually became my mentor during student teaching. I even spoke at her retirement. She never stopped learning, even after decades in the classroom. That kind of passion stays with you.
Cranbury offered something rare: the chance to serve as both principal and superintendent. In my previous job as Assistant Superintendent in South Brunswick, I missed being in the schools, connecting with students day to day. Here, I get to guide the big picture while also being present for the small, meaningful moments—reading to the younger grades, popping into classrooms, or just saying hello in the hallway. Those connections fill me with energy.
My early mentors weren’t afraid of change. That mindset stuck with me. Change is hard, but it’s necessary. I remind myself constantly to stay close to what matters—supporting teachers, staying grounded in classrooms, and learning alongside our students.
One of the things I’m most proud of lately is our school’s construction project. It’s not just about new walls or better facilities. It’s about reimagining how space supports learning. I had to present a plan to the Board of Education that connected each space directly to our curriculum. I never thought I’d be collaborating with architects and engineers, but now I’m fluent in design specs and construction timelines—and more importantly, how they impact student learning.
The space I’m most excited about? Our new STEAM lab. Originally, we planned a separate greenhouse for our aquaponics system, but we rethought the design. Instead, we’re building a connected lab in the old nurse’s office, with hydroponics and aquaponics visible through glass doors that lead right into the main STEAM area. It’s going to bring science alive in ways that feel tangible and exciting.
Cranbury School really is the heart of the town—both geographically and in spirit. We maintain strong relationships with the township, the police department, the library, the Lions Club, the Women’s Club, and even the senior citizens. I speak at their luncheons. We’re intentional about including everyone, even residents who don’t have children in the school. They deserve to feel part of what we’re building.
Cranbury School really is the heart of the town—both geographically and in spirit. We maintain strong relationships with the township, the police department, the library, the Lions Club, the Women’s Club, and even the senior citizens. I speak at their luncheons. We’re intentional about including everyone, even residents who don’t have children in the school. They deserve to feel part of what we’re building.
Dr. Jennifer Diszler
I’ve seen our students lead in ways that amaze me. The PEAC Club, for example, was started by students to promote diversity and inclusion. It’s still going strong because of their commitment—and that of our staff. And then there’s Olivia Shea, who envisioned a Holocaust memorial flower project that involved the entire community. She partnered with Town Hall, the library, and even caught the attention of the press. That kind of initiative, that kind of follow-through—it says everything about the spirit of our school.
At this point in my career, I know this is my final chapter. I want to retire from Cranbury. And what I’ve learned—sometimes the hard way—is that relationships matter most. Early in my career, I was focused on proving myself, checking things off lists. But I’ve come to see that real progress happens when people feel heard, when they feel like they belong. That’s when collaboration truly takes root.
If I could offer one piece of advice to anyone stepping into leadership, it would be this: be patient. Listen before you act. Learn the culture. And most importantly, be your authentic self. Your values and your voice—those are what make you a leader worth following.