At its Regular Meeting on April 21, 2021, the Harborfields Central School District’s Board of Education unanimously appointed Dr. Rory Manning as Superintendent of Schools, effective immediately. He had been serving as Interim Superintendent since December 2020.
With 25 years of educational experience, Dr. Manning has successfully led the district as Interim Superintendent during an unprecedented time. He worked collaboratively with staff and the greater community to provide a safe school environment while minimizing disruptions due to COVID-19. Additionally, he coordinated the return of all students in grades 6-12 to full-time, in-person instruction. During this challenging time, Dr. Manning has placed a great priority on communication, providing regular written and video messages to keep parents well informed.
Since assuming the role as Interim Superintendent, Dr. Manning has continued his work with the district’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force as they look to implement a number of program enhancements throughout the district. In addition, he has also worked with the Board of Education to develop the proposed budget for the 2021-22 school year, which provides a number of enhancements to the instructional program, while remaining within the district’s allowable tax levy cap.
“From the minute Dr. Manning began his role as Interim Superintendent, he enthusiastically dived in and it was a seamless transition,” said Board of Education President Suzie Lustig. “He has worked countless hours with enthusiasm to ensure that our buildings continue to operate and address the many needs of our students. However, the true cornerstone of his success has been his understanding of the value of building relationships with all stakeholders in our community. There is no doubt that Dr. Manning is the perfect person to serve as our Superintendent.”
“I am humbled by the opportunity to continue to work for this wonderful community and I am so thankful to the Board of Education for their guidance and support,” said Dr. Manning. “I continue to be inspired by our students and staff each day. Together, as One Harborfields Family, we can and we will continue to do great things.”
“Dr. Manning has been an integral part of Harborfields for the past nine years,” added Lustig. “With his appointment, the Board of Education looks forward to a long partnership with Dr. Manning, and knows he will successfully lead the district well into the future.”