Jefferson Township Board of Education Announces Scot Burkholder as Next Superintendent

JEFFERSON TOWNSHIP — The Jefferson Township Board of Education announced its intention to appoint Scot Burkholder as the next Superintendent of Jefferson Township Public Schools, effective July 1, 2026.

The appointment was scheduled for approval at the Board’s regular meeting on Monday, June 15, following a comprehensive superintendent search conducted with assistance from the New Jersey School Boards Association.

According to the Board, the search process focused on identifying a leader with a strong commitment to academic excellence, strategic vision, and the ability to guide the district into the future. Following multiple rounds of interviews and a review of a highly qualified candidate pool, Board members selected Burkholder to lead the district.

“His experience, leadership qualities, and dedication to student success align with our mission to cultivate positive, contributing members of both our local and global communities,” the Board stated.

Burkholder joins Jefferson Township after spending 11 years with Wayne Township Public Schools, where he served as both a principal and Director of Federal, State, and Special Programs. Since 2018, he has worked as a central office administrator, collaborating with principals, counselors, nurses, intervention teachers, and other educational professionals to support student achievement.

Burkholder was approved for a three-year contract from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029, with a 2.6% salary increase each year.

The salary for each school year is as follows:

2026–2027: $200,000

2027–2028: $205,200

2028–2029: $210,535

During his tenure in Wayne, Burkholder also served in several districtwide leadership roles, including Anti-Bullying Coordinator, Homeless Liaison, DCPP Liaison, District Testing Coordinator, Residency Coordinator, Grants Administrator, and Affirmative Action Officer.

Prior to his work in Wayne, Burkholder spent 15 years with Plainfield Public Schools, serving as a teacher, vice principal, and principal.

Burkholder earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical, Health, and Adapted Education from West Virginia University and a Master of Science degree in Educational Administration from University of Scranton. He has also completed advanced leadership studies, including the School Turnaround Leaders program through the Harvard Graduate School of Education.

His professional accomplishments include receiving a citation from the New Jersey Legislature for educational commitment and being recognized as a “Hero of the Pandemic” by former Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill.

A resident of the Highlands region, Burkholder said he understands Jefferson Township’s strong sense of community and commitment to educational excellence. He believes that effective instruction and meaningful professional development provide the foundation for student success and that every child can thrive when given the proper support and opportunities.

The Board thanked residents, parents, staff members, and community stakeholders who participated in surveys and public input sessions throughout the search process.

With Burkholder’s appointment, Jefferson Township Public Schools begins a new chapter of leadership focused on building upon the district’s strengths while continuing to expand opportunities for students, staff, and families.