BRICK – Board of Education members noted Superintendent Thomas G. Farrell’s recent naming as Superintendent of the Year by the New Jersey Association of School Administrators Education and Research Foundation (NJASA).
Richard Bozza, executive director of NJASA noted in an association produced video that Farrell was the 2025 Region III Superintendent of the Year.
“Farrell’s journey started in the private sector but his passion for coaching and working with young people led him to education. He began as a business education teacher quickly rising through the ranks.”
The superintendent has served as assistant athletic director, director of technology, assistant principal, high school principal and superintendent.
Bozza described Farrell as a “proven strategic leader with a steadfast commitment to provide student centered instruction. He provides supportive and engaging learning environments that foster academic growth, interpersonal relationships and community involvement.”
“Under his leadership, Brick schools have navigated through challenges, expanded pre-kindergarten and advocated for fair school aid funding all while keeping students first. He believes great schools aren’t about big budgets or trendy programs. They are about people – especially the relationships between students and teachers,” Bozza said.
Farrell said “students need an adult advocate who truly cares.”
“Beyond his district he is making a difference too,” Bozza added. He noted that Farrell serves as president of the Ocean County Superintendents’ Roundtable. An NJASA member since 2013, he served on NJASA committees and is an adjunct professor at Monmouth University.
Also noted during the recent Board of Education meeting was the retirement of administrator Susan McNamara who served as the director of Planning, Research and Evaluation. Farrell described her as a “great mentor to teachers.”
“Gigantic shoes to fill. Who will keep Dr. Farrell in line?” Board member Victoria Pakala jokingly asked in reference to McNamara’s departure. “Congratulations and I am glad we still have two months with you.”
Board President Madeline Iannarone told McNamara, “I’ve known you since our children were young. I was always very impressed by you and always looked up to you and will continue to. I will miss you.”
Board President Madeline Iannarone, Vice Board President Mike Mesmer and Board members Pakala, Alison Kennedy, Frances DiBenedictis, John Henry and George Malgeri congratulated Farrell and recognized McNamara during the recent Board meeting.
