Announcement of the Appointment of Dr. Michael Ryder as Superintendent of Schools

Posted: January 28, 2026

The Bloomingdale Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Michael Ryder as the next Superintendent of Schools for the Bloomingdale School District.He will arrive in our district in early April.

Dr. Ryder brings more than 20 years of experience in public education and currently serves as Superintendent of Schools for Hardyston Township Public Schools in Sussex County. Throughout his career, he has focused on building strong relationships, supporting high-quality instruction, and ensuring that every student is known, supported, and challenged to succeed.

During his time in Hardyston, Dr. Ryder led a Pre-K–8 district through meaningful improvements in curriculum alignment, early childhood education, student achievement, and systems designed to better support teachers and learners. He is known for creating school environments where collaboration, clarity, and trust allow educators to do their best work for students.

Dr. Ryder holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership, and a Bachelor’s degree in History with a minor in Cultural Anthropology. His doctoral research explored how teacher perceptions of student ability affect motivation and academic outcomes, reinforcing his commitment to equity, high expectations, and strong relationships in schools.

A lifelong New Jersey resident, Dr. Ryder is married and the proud parent of a teenage daughter, giving him both professional and personal insight into the importance of supportive, caring school communities and strong partnerships between families and schools.

The Bloomingdale Board of Education looks forward to welcoming Dr. Ryder and working together with staff, students, and families as the district continues to grow and thrive.

I am truly honored to join the Bloomingdale School District and to serve this community as Superintendent of Schools.

Transitions always come with both anticipation and questions. I want to assure Bloomingdale’s staff, families, and students that my first priority will be to listen, learn, and build relationships. I believe deeply that strong schools are built on trust, shared purpose, and the expertise of the people who do this work every day.

I come to Bloomingdale after leading a Pre-K–8 district where we focused on clarity in instruction, consistency across classrooms, and creating systems that support both students and educators. I am excited to learn what makes Bloomingdale special and to work alongside you to continue strengthening opportunities for every child.

In the weeks ahead, I look forward to meeting staff, visiting classrooms, and engaging with families and community members. Together, we will build on Bloomingdale’s strengths and move forward with a shared commitment to excellence, care, and high expectations for all.