The Berlin Borough School District is marking a significant leadership transition with the conclusion of Dr. Brenda Harring’s two-year term as interim superintendent, while simultaneously embarking on a new collaboration with the Gibbsboro School District.
Harring has been widely praised for her steady guidance and dedication.
“We extend our profound gratitude to Dr. Harring for her dedicated service, as she stepped in during a critical time, ensuring continuity and stability,” said Brandy Titus, president of the Berlin district’s board of education. “Dr. Harring’s commitment to our students and staff, and her collaborative spirit, have been invaluable. We wish her continued success.”
Meanwhile, in a move aimed at strengthening educational programs while maximizing resources, the Berlin and Gibbsboro districts have entered into a five-year shared services agreement for the position of superintendent. As of July 1, Gibbsboro Superintendent Jack Marcellus is the shared superintendent of both districts.
Marcellus brings a track record of leadership, having served in Gibbsboro for nine years. His tenure has included major accomplishments such as the hiring of a school resource officer and full-time librarian, the creation of junior and senior robotics clubs, and infrastructure upgrades that included a new roof and solar panels.
Marcellus has also mentored new school administrators for four years and served as president of the Camden County School Administrators Association for three.
“The Berlin Borough Board of Education is incredibly excited about this partnership and the opportunity to welcome Jack Marcellus,” Titus noted. “This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to fiscal responsibility and educational excellence.”
The Gibbsboro board of education also expressed support for the shared-services agreement.
“Jack Marcellus has been an exceptional leader in Gibbsboro for nine years,” stated Joyce Miller, its president. “He’s overseen significant advancements, including the successful launch of a full-day pre-kindergarten program. This agreement demonstrates a proactive approach to navigating financial challenges while safeguarding the quality of education our communities expect.”
The shared-services model is not new to the two school districts. Berlin and Gibbsboro shared a superintendent from 2005 to 2015, and they’ve continued working together for more than a decade through a shared learning consultant and a joint summer ESY (Extended School Year) program.
The new agreement was unanimously approved by both boards of education in March, reinforcing a mutual commitment to collaboration during a time of reduced state aid.
“By sharing a superintendent, we anticipate significant cost savings allowing us to maintain our high standards of education for all students,” Titus emphasized.
While shared services can sometimes raise concerns in close-knit communities, both the Gibbsboro and Berlin school boards have emphasized that their agreement was carefully designed to preserve the autonomy and identity of each district. Each school will continue to have its own principal, board of education and individualized goals.
“This is an opportunity to strengthen both districts through collaboration, not dilute their identities,” explained Miller. “Our boards remain committed to addressing the specific needs of our students while fostering innovation and sustainability.”
For more information about the shared-services agreement and upcoming leadership transitions, visit the websites of the Berlin and Gibbsboro school districts.
