SOMERS POINT — When Ken Berardis walked the halls of Jordan Road School as a boy, he likely had no idea that he would return some day as its principal.
The Linwood resident took the reins of the school from Ted Pugliese, who was hired as the district’s superintendent beginning July 1.
Berardis, 46, joins the district after working as assistant principal at Smithville Elementary School since 2015. Prior to that, he served an administration internship at Joseph A. Shaner Elementary School in Mays Landing from 2014-15.
The 1996 Mainland Regional High School graduate was a teacher of social success at Shaner from 2012-15 after working as a physical education teacher at Mays Landing’s George L. Hess Educational Complex from 2008-12.
He started his career as a physical education teacher at MRHS, filling in for those on leave from 2006-08.
“I bring with me over 16 years of experience in education, along with a deep commitment to fostering a positive learning environment where every student can thrive,” he wrote in a letter to the community.
Berardis earned a master’s degree in school administration from Rowan University in 2014 following his certification as a health and physical education/driver’s education teacher in 2006.
Berardis believes his varied career has “shaped my belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of cultivating strong partnerships within the community.”
He earned his undergraduate degree in political science from Stockton University in 2002 after completing an associate degree in psychology from Atlantic Cape Community College in 2000. Berardis also holds licenses for administration and elementary education.
“As I step into this role, I am both honored and excited to become a member of this esteemed community and to have the opportunity to work alongside such dedicated students, families and staff,” he wrote.
Locally, Berardis was president of the Somers Point Street Hockey Association and worked with the Somers Point Sharks junior football program and the baseball program.
“I have been a member of this community for almost 40 years and nothing brings me more pride than to be able to call myself a Jaguar for the remainder of my career,” he wrote.
He and his wife, Stephanie, have two teen sons and a 2-year-old daughter.
Berardis said his top priority is to promote academic success and student well-being.
“I am committed to fostering a culture of excellence that celebrates diversity, promotes inclusivity and empowers students to reach their full potential,” he wrote.
Berardis believes that education is a collaborative effort.
“I am committed to working closely with all stakeholders to ensure that our school remains a place where students feel valued, supported and inspired to excel,” he wrote. “I am deeply committed to open communication, transparency and accessibility.”
The district has struggled for years under the School Funding Reform Act of 2018, losing more than $4 million, or 66 percent, of state aid in seven years.
The latest New Jersey School Performance Report, covering 2022-23, lists enrollment at 387 students, 11 percent of whom are English learners and 61.5 percent of whom are economically disadvantaged. It lists 17 percent as disabled.
The average teacher experience at the school, which serves students in fourth through eighth grades, is almost 13 years and the student to teacher ratio is 9-1.
Assistant Principal
Amanda Winslow
Winslow, 38, lives in Upper Township with her husband — John Winslow, a 2005 graduate of Ocean City High School and son of Ocean City Councilman Dave Winslow — and two children — a 5-year-old daughter and 6-month-old son.
She has 14 years of experience in education in various roles, including serving as acting assistant principal at Jordan Road from January to March 2024.
Winslow worked as a math teacher at Bridgeton High School for 10 years before joining the Somers Point School District four years ago.
“I am honored to continue to work with the dedicated team of educators and staff who are committed to providing a safe, supportive and enriching environment for your children,” Winslow wrote in a letter to the community.
Winslow earned a master’s degree in administration and a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and mathematics from Rowan University. She is certified in elementary education, middle school and high school math.
“I am passionate about fostering a culture of academic excellence, social-emotional growth, and inclusivity,” Winslow wrote.
In her role, Winslow’s primary goal is to support students in achieving their highest potential.
“I believe in the importance of open communication and collaboration between the school and families, and I am committed to being accessible and responsive to your needs and concerns,” she wrote.
– By CRAIG D. SCHENCK/Sentinel staff
