The board’s virtual session resulted in the appointment of Thomas A. Coleman Jr. to a role he has played before in Monroe. He will serve through June 30, unless a new superintendent fills the position in that time.
Monroe board of ed votes on both decisions are unanimous
The Monroe board of education has voted not to renew the contract for Superintendent Susan Ficke.
The move came during a special virtual meeting on July 18, with the board unanimously in favor, according to its attorney, Richard Coe. All board members were present for the vote.
Ficke was named Monroe superintendent in 2020, following 15 years as assistant superintendent for instruction in the Pennsville public schools. Prior to that, she worked in the Camden schools as senior director of principal and teacher evaluations and as supervisor of health and physical education. She also taught health in both Camden and Cinnaminson.
The board then unanimously motioned to appoint Thomas A. Coleman Jr. its interim superintendent, a role he previously filled in the district. He will be paid a per-diem rate of $750, effective through June 30, unless a new superintendent fills the position.
“Whichever comes first,” Coe noted.
In a letter to the school community on the district’s website, Coleman introduced himself.
“I am honored to have the opportunity to oversee the district during this time of transition,” he said.
Coleman comes to Monroe with 45 years of school experience. Prior to his retirement in 2017, he was a teacher, guidance counselor, assistant principal, and principal of Kingsway Regional High School in Woolwich Township. He concluded his career after eight years as superintendent of the Woodstown-Pilesgrove Regional School District.
Coleman was the Monroe interim head of schools for five months in 2020. He also served in that role for the Gloucester City, Pittsgrove Township and Woodbury City districts.
“It is my goal to serve the Monroe public schools in a manner that successfully manages daily operations and facilitates smooth and successful operations during this time,” he promised.
“I look forward to working with the students, parents and guardians, staff, administration, board of education and the community at large.”
