The Mantua Township Board of Education has announced Robert Miles, current principal of J. Mason Tomlin School, as their candidate for superintendent. The board is scheduled to vote on Miles’ appointment at the board of education meeting on June 8. Miles will officially begin on Aug. 1, replacing Robert Fisicaro who announced his resignation in April. Miles and Fisicaro are working with the board to ensure a smooth transition of leadership.
Miles has been principal of J. Mason Tomlin School for five years. During his time as principal, Mantua Township School District was named a National District of Character. This accomplishment is one that Miles attributes to the ongoing collaboration between teachers and administrators. Miles is most proud of his work as the district school safety specialist. With his direction, the district has implemented new safety measures at a fast pace. Miles is committed to improving school safety for all students and staff in the district. Before coming to the Mantua Township School District, he taught math and was a vice principal at Kingsway Regional Middle School. Miles’ background is in finance where he started his professional career before becoming an educator.
“As principal of JMT, I’ve become deeply invested in our community and look forward to building upon the good work we’ve accomplished here in Mantua. As superintendent, I will always make it my daily goal to prioritize school safety while delivering the highest quality academic and character education programs available to our students,” Miles said.
The board of education also identified Chantelle Shorter, current vice principal of J. Mason Tomlin School, as the new principal effective Aug. 1. Shorter has been the vice principal at J. Mason Tomlin School for three years. She believes in working as a team to figure out what’s best for students. Shorter is a strong advocate for identifying individual student strengths so they can be maximized for the purpose of learning. Prior to coming to Mantua in 2017, Shorter taught in Charlotte, N. C. while she completed her graduate studies. She also taught with Miles at Kingsway Regional Middle School before moving to Charlotte. Born and raised in New Jersey, Shorter stands by the philosophy of educating the whole child. She believes social-emotional wellness undoubtedly leads to student achievement.
“It is a blessing to work with a great team and families in such a wonderful district as Mantua Township. I am very thankful to have had the opportunity to be involved in innovative and strategic initiatives under Dr. Fisicaro’s leadership. I am looking forward to continuing to learn under the leadership of Mr. Miles in the years to come,” stated Shorter.
“The board of education has high amounts of confidence and trust in Mr. Miles and Mrs. Shorter, both of whom are proven and capable educational leaders. These promotions will ensure the continuity of services for students and familiarity with the Mantua Township school community. We are very pleased with these selections, and the board looks forward to the opportunity to build with them on a strong educational foundation,” said Bonnie Nuss, president of the Mantua Township Board of Education.
