Superintendent Pablo Munoz, right, is working with Mr. DeNaples to create the best academic experience for all students at PHS. Photo by Levi Albenis

The new superintendent of Passaic Public Schools is Mr. Pablo Munoz. He will have executive oversight and administrative powers, over all the schools within Passaic School District. Mr. Munoz has come to Passaic from Elizabeth Public Schools where he was superintendent. He graduated from Elizabeth High School, class of 1987. Mr. Munoz then went on to college at Yale University. He graduated in 1991 with a B.A. degree in psychology. Mr. Munoz also went to graduate school at Columbia University for education administration.

Mr. Munoz’s said of his first impression of Passaic, “It is a great place.” He added, “Passaic is very much alive and exciting, filled with wonderful and welcoming people, and opportunity for great things.”
The vision for our school is based in the superintendent’s philosophy of education. Mr. Munoz says that all students must be given the groundwork in their education so that they are prepared to go to college. He believes that all students may excel at high levels in their education. Mr. Munoz wants our students to be grounded in 2 “Q’s,” which are quantity and quality.

He is constantly asking, “How can I increase the instruction time in courses required for graduation?” and “How can we improve the quality of what goes on in the classroom?” Change does not happen quickly. It is a long term process but it is possible if we work together. We cannot improve teaching and learning overnight.

Mr. Munoz wants PHS students to understand that he wants to create an academic experience for all students, to prepare for college. If there was a choice between a college tour and an amusement park, he would choose a college tour so that students can learn and succeed. No time should be wasted doing things that are not important to the mission of becoming the best urban school district in New Jersey.

The only way Passaic can become the best is having less dropouts, better SAT scores, AP exam scores increased, and passing both parts of the HSPA when taken the first time. Therefore, all efforts will be made to help students stay in school and graduate. Students will be given every opportunity to pass the HSPA on the first try, and also to take advanced placement courses when possible.

Mr. Munoz also favors the district uniform policy. He said that parents love the school uniform, because it is much easier for them. It helps students to attend school dressed properly and minimize gangs. Therefore, do not look for a change to the uniform policy any time soon.

Mr. Munoz would like to tell everyone at PHS, “I am excited to be here, and I am looking forward to working with students, to fulfill the district vision to become the best urban school district in New Jersey.” The future certainly looks positive, with Mr. Munoz in charge.

By Gabriela Martinez and Levi Albenis