The Scotch Plains-Fanwood Board of Education proudly promoted Robert McGarry, Ed.D., from assistant superintendent to deputy superintendent. The new title recognizes his leadership and the broad scope of his responsibilities in the district, including curriculum leadership, grant management, and professional development. 

Dr. McGarry has served as assistant superintendent since August 2020, providing leadership while overseeing curriculum and instruction for more than 5,600 students across the district. In his role, he has guided instructional programs spanning all subject areas, from arts and humanities to STEM, world languages, and career-connected learning, while also helping shape the district’s academic vision and strategic priorities. 

“This title reflects both the breadth of Dr. McGarry’s responsibilities and the outstanding leadership he demonstrates every day,” said Superintendent Dr. Joan Mast. “His dedication to the students of Scotch Plains-Fanwood Public Schools has had a lasting impact on our schools, and we are proud to recognize his contributions.” 

The title of deputy superintendent more accurately reflects Dr. McGarry's responsibilities, including serving as the district's acting leader in the superintendent's absence.   

As Assistant Superintendent, he has developed and implemented an Education career pathway, piloted AP African American Studies as an early adopter district in partnership with College Board during the course’s development and refinement cycle, and been at the forefront of launching AP Business and Personal Finance. He also has organized a districtwide AI Literacy Professional Development Day, led the district’s multi-year transition to the 2022 Danielson Framework for Teaching, and led the district’s partnership with Kean University to bring the Teaching the Holocaust and Teaching for Prejudice Reduction programs to teachers in the district.  

Dr. McGarry earned a Bachelor of Music Education from Bucknell University, a Master of Music Education from the Hartt School at the University of Hartford, and a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership and Organizational Theory from the University of Pennsylvania. He also completed an Educational Supervision Certification Program at Rutgers University. 

Congratulations to Dr. McGarry on this professional recognition!