Dr. Thomas D'Elia
Acting Assistant Superintendent of Schools
Academic History/Classroom Experience:
Dr. Thomas D'Elia holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from St. Peter’s College, where he earned academic distinction through acceptance into Psi Chi, The National Honor Society for Psychology. Later, he attended William Paterson University's Alternate Route Program to obtain teaching certifications in Psychology and Elementary Education (K-8). His commitment to education led him to Kean University, where he earned certifications in Special Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration and Supervision. During his time at Kean University, Dr. D'Elia was honored with acceptance into Alpha Epsilon Lambda, The National Honor Society for Graduate Students.
Teaching Experience:
Dr. Thomas D'Elia served as a Middle School Math, Science, and Social Studies Teacher in West Orange, where he later earned his certification in Special Education. He proudly coached Wrestling and Spring Track and Field, earning induction into the West Orange Athletic Hall of Fame alongside the 2007 West Orange Wrestling Team.
Educational Leadership and Doctoral Pursuit:
Dr. Thomas D'Elia continued his academic journey at Montclair State University, earning a Ph.D. in Teacher Education and Teacher Development. His academic achievements include memberships in Alpha Epsilon Lambda, Phi Delta Kappa, and Pi Lambda Theta Honor Societies, as well as induction into The National Society of Leadership and Success at Montclair State University.
Administrative Roles:
Currently serving as Acting Assistant Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Thomas D'Elia's extensive administrative experience includes roles such as Director of Operations/Chief Talent Officer, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Elementary Principal, High School Assistant Principal, Director of Safety, Director of Athletics/Physical Education and Director of Human Resources.
Professional Certifications:
Dr. Thomas D'Elia holds standard educational certifications as a Teacher of Psychology, Teacher of Students with Disabilities, Elementary School Teacher (K-8), Supervisor, Principal, and School Administrator.
Professional Presentations:
A sought-after speaker, Dr. Thomas D'Elia has delivered presentations on various educational topics. Highlights include lectures on Cloud-Based Curriculum, Digital Curriculum, Data Analysis, and participation in symposiums focusing on recruiting, retaining, and professionally developing new staff.
Continuing Education and Professional Engagement:
Dr. Thomas D'Elia has participated in prestigious programs such as the Harvard Graduate School of Education's Leadership Institute and Columbia University's Teacher College Continuing Education Program. He is a Leadership Associate at Montclair State University's Network for Educational Renewal (MSUNER) and serves as an adjunct faculty member in both Montclair State University's Educational Leadership Master’s Program and Centenary University’s Educational Doctorate Program in Educational Leadership.
Additionally, Dr. Thomas D'Elia serves as a mentor to new administrators throughout New Jersey in the Leaders to Leaders program. He is an active member of a local board of education, where he is deeply committed to community engagement and the delivery of high-quality education. Dr. D'Elia views his service on the board as an opportunity to contribute to both his local community and the broader field of education.
Currently pursuing a professional certificate in Advanced Educational Leadership from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education, Dr. Thomas D'Elia remains dedicated to ongoing professional development.
Personal Statement/Interests:
With a profound understanding of the educational landscape, Dr. Thomas D'Elia is passionate about fostering high-quality professional development for teachers and staff. In his current role as Director of Human Resources, he strives to give back to the community by recruiting talented educators who connect with modern-day students. Outside the realm of education, Dr. Thomas D'Elia finds joy in spending quality time with his loving family.