George Chando grew up going to Phillipsburg schools.
That’s where his career began. And, after 42 years, that’s where it will end.
“When you grow up in a town like that and you are a product of it, you want to see it succeed,” said Chando, the town’s schools superintendent, days after the district advertised his position will be opening up July 1.
Chando, who now lives in Forks Township, said he made the decision last summer to retire at the end of the 2016-17 school year, when his five-year contract as superintendent expires. The contract was up for renewal discussions in August.
He started as a history teacher in 1975, working his way up the ranks first in the high school as athletic director, then assistant principal and principal. He made the move to the district’s central office in 2001 and was named superintendent in 2012.
Among his proudest accomplishments is overseeing the completion of a new $127.5 million high school in Lopatcong Township, which Casinovale opened last fall.
P’burg legend revisits humble beginnings
“I feel very fortunate,” Chando said, thanking the school board, his colleagues and staff. “It was a unique opportunity.”
Chando will be 64 in May and said he hasn’t given much thought to what retirement will bring, though he is looking forward to time with his family and continuing to volunteer with groups around the community.
When asked who he wanted to see succeed him, Chando said there are “a lot of good people” in the district but that the decision is up to the board.
“It’s time for somebody else to have the opportunity to lead the district,” he said.
Steve Novak may be reached at snovak@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @type2supernovak and Facebook. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook.
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