N.J. educator scores ‘Superintendent of the Year’ honor after nearly 50 years in schools

A 47-year veteran of Rutherford Public Schools is being celebrated as one of New Jersey’s best educators after earning the state’s 2025 “Superintendent of the Year” award.

Jack Hurley’s long career in Rutherford included previous roles as teacher, supervisor, assistant principal, and high school principal. He was appointed the district’s chief education officer in 2014.

Rutherford Public Schools, which serves 2,600 students in Bergen County, introduced preschool classes and a young adult transition program under Hurley’s leadership, according to Michael LaSusa, president of the New Jersey Association of School Administrators.

Speaking at a state Board of Education meeting earlier this month, LaSusa said Hurley also oversaw a restructuring of the district’s facilities, including a four-year, $45 million project to expand six buildings that was completed last year.

“Mr. Hurley’s extensive experience and commitment to the district have established him as a respected leader, admired by staff, admired by the Board of Education, and admired by peers in other districts,” LaSusa said.

Hurley will represent New Jersey at the American Association of School Administrators’ National Conference in Louisiana next March, where he will be a contender for “National Superintendent of the Year.”

In a news release last month, Hurley deferred to his “talented staff and students,” saying he shared the award “with my colleagues and community in Bergen County and South Bergen County in particular, where countless moments of excellence happen in our schools.”

In September, Hurley was among a group of superintendents recognized by the Association of School Administrators for their work and community involvement. Others honorees included Tami Crader of Neptune Township School District and Thomas Farrell of Brick Township Public Schools.