Dr. Winston Jackson, Interim Assistant Principal at GLHS,

Berkeley Heights Public Schools announced that Dr. Winston Jackson will continue serving as Interim Assistant Principal at Governor Livingston High School for the 2026-2027 school year. Dr. Jackson joined the district in April 2026 in this interim role, bringing extensive experience to school leadership and student support.

Educator Background and Experience

Dr. Jackson is an educator with more than 35 years of experience in public education. He retired in 2020 after serving as Principal of Chancellor Avenue School in the Irvington Public School District before deciding to return to the profession in an interim capacity to serve a suburban school community. Extended career and decision to return demonstrated commitment to education and community service.

Educational Credentials and Qualifications

Dr. Jackson holds an Executive Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Seton Hall University, a Master of Public Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and a Bachelor of Science in Management from Seton Hall University. Advanced credentials reflected professional depth and educational leadership expertise.

Administrative Responsibilities

As Interim Assistant Principal, he supervises student discipline for students in grades 9-11, assists with grade 12 disciplinary matters, oversees student attendance, and coordinates the implementation of the school's Intervention and Referral Services (I&RS) and Section 504 programs. Role encompasses multiple dimensions of student support and administrative coordination.

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Dr. Jackson's Perspective

Dr. Jackson stated, "My experience, thus far in BHPS, with students, parents, community members, staff and administrators has been wonderful. Principal Berry, Assistant Principal Dagounis and all of the administrators genuinely respect the years of experience that I bring to the GL team and have welcomed me." Jackson's statement reflected positive community integration and collegial school environment.

Principal Berry's Assessment

Governor Livingston High School Principal Meg Berry remarked, "From his very first week, Dr. Jackson made it a priority to be visible and approachable across our entire building. While his depth of professional experience adds immense value to our leadership team, it's his ability to connect with people that really stands out." Berry's observation highlighted Jackson's interpersonal skills and visible leadership presence.

Superintendent Recognition

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kim Feltre added, "Dr. Jackson's vast experience and dedication to education have been an asset to GLHS. He has made an immediate and positive impact on our school community, building meaningful relationships and supporting a student-centered environment." Feltre's statement emphasized district-level recognition of Jackson's contribution.

School Leadership and Administrative Continuity

Dr. Jackson's continuation reflects district confidence in his leadership and student support contribution. Administrative continuity enables consistent student discipline and attendance management.

Student Support and Disciplinary Leadership

Grades 9-11 student discipline supervision and attendance oversight represent critical administrative functions. Student discipline and attendance affect academic progress and school climate.

Intervention and Referral Services

I&RS and Section 504 program coordination support students with academic, behavioral, and emotional needs. Special education and intervention services require coordinated administrative oversight.

Suburban School Leadership

Jackson's decision to return to suburban education reflected career choice prioritization. Suburban school environments differ from urban district contexts and offer distinct community dynamics.

Community Integration and Relationship Building

Early visibility and approachability enabled rapid community connection. Strong relationships between administration and stakeholders support school climate and student success.

For Berkeley Heights Students and Families

Governor Livingston High School students and families benefit from Dr. Jackson's administrative leadership and student support programs. Dr. Jackson brings 35-year career experience and commitment to student-centered education.

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Photo Credit: BHPS

FAQ

Q: Who is the Interim Assistant Principal at Governor Livingston High School?
A: Dr. Winston Jackson is the Interim Assistant Principal. He joined Berkeley Heights Public Schools in April 2026 and will continue in this role for the 2026-2027 school year.

Q: What are Dr. Jackson's credentials?
A: Dr. Jackson holds an Executive Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Seton Hall University, a Master of Public Administration from Fairleigh Dickinson University, and a Bachelor of Science in Management from Seton Hall University.

Q: How much education experience does Dr. Jackson have?
A: Dr. Jackson has more than 35 years of experience in public education, including serving as Principal of Chancellor Avenue School in Irvington.

Q: What are Dr. Jackson's responsibilities as Interim Assistant Principal?
A: He supervises student discipline for grades 9-11, assists with grade 12 disciplinary matters, oversees student attendance, and coordinates I&RS and Section 504 programs.

Q: Did Dr. Jackson retire before coming to Berkeley Heights?
A: Yes. Dr. Jackson retired in 2020 from Irvington Public School District after serving as principal, but decided to return to education in 2026.

Q: What do school leaders say about Dr. Jackson?
A: Principal Berry praised his visibility and approachability. Superintendent Feltre noted his immediate positive impact and student-centered approach.

Q: Will Dr. Jackson continue beyond 2026-2027?
A: The announcement covers the 2026-2027 school year. Future employment is not specified.

Q: How do students view Dr. Jackson?
A: Student feedback is not included in the announcement, but Dr. Jackson emphasized positive experiences with students and the community.