Mr. Gregory Van Nest Named Acting Superintendent
Please see the below letter sent out by BOE President, Dr. Damali Robinson, on Nov. 11, 2025.
Dear Glen Rock Public Schools Community,
At our November 10, 2025 meeting, the Board of Education voted to appoint Mr. Gregory Van Nest as Acting Superintendent of the Glen Rock Public School District. On November 3, 2025, the Board approved an agreement with Dr. Brett Charleston whereby his employment with the District will end on August 31, 2026 instead of on June 30, 2027. Dr. Charleston will remain on leave of absence for personal reasons until his employment end-date.
During this transition, Mr. Van Nest will provide steady leadership and support for our schools, as he has done capably in the past.
Glen Rock Public Schools remain strong, stable, and focused on what matters most–our students. The Board is deeply proud of our teachers, administrators, and support staff for their continued commitment to delivering high-quality education and maintaining a caring, supportive environment for all. We expect to begin the process of undertaking a search for a permanent Superintendent of Schools shortly after the new year.
This agreement allows the district to move forward with clarity and focus. Together, we will continue to prioritize learning, growth, and the next chapter of progress for Glen Rock. To support transparency, we’ve prepared a summary document answering anticipated questions about the agreement with Dr. Charleston, which is attached to this message.
With Appreciation,
Dr. Damali Robinson
President
Glen Rock Board of Education
Understanding the Mutual Settlement Agreement
The Glen Rock Board of Education and Superintendent, Dr. Brett Charleston, mutually entered into a formal agreement to end his employment with the Board on August 31, 2026, which is ten (10) months earlier than his contractual end date of June 30, 2027. The agreement was formally approved by the Board at its meeting on November 3, 2025. We are pleased to announce Mr. Gregory Van Nest as our Acting Superintendent.
What is a settlement agreement and why is it necessary now?
A settlement agreement is a legal contract between an employer and an employee that outlines mutually agreed upon terms for ending the employment relationship. Under New Jersey statute, superintendent contracts are multi-year agreements that may only be ended early by mutual consent or for specific legal cause.
Negotiating an agreement like this is often the most practical option when the Board and superintendent agree that a leadership transition is in the district’s interest. This approach provides predictable financial terms, avoids potential litigation costs, and allows the community to move forward without disruption. Similar agreements have been used by other districts across the state when changes in leadership direction or priorities have made an early transition appropriate.
What are the terms of the mutual settlement agreement?
Under the approved arrangement, Dr. Charleston began a leave of absence on November 3, 2025, and will resign from Glen Rock Public Schools effective August 31, 2026. During the leave period, he will not perform superintendent duties or accrue additional leave time. The terms include salary and benefits that are already accounted for in the district’s public budget. There is no additional lump-sum payment.
Both the Board and Dr. Charleston have agreed to release any pending claims, providing closure and allowing district operations to proceed without further legal or financial uncertainty. There is no litigation pending or filed between the Board of Education and Dr. Charleston. The settlement agreement represents a mutually agreed-upon resolution in accordance with New Jersey statute.
Who will lead the district?
Assistant Superintendent, Mr. Gregory Van Nest, will serve as Acting Superintendent effective November 11, 2025. During this period, his annual salary will be temporarily adjusted from $195,000 to $245,000 on a pro-rated basis for performing the duties of both positions.
How much is the agreement costing the district?
The agreement will cost the district approximately $40,833 in additional expenses. Structured within existing budget resources, the agreement will not result in any additional cost to taxpayers or reductions to educational programs.
The terms include salary and benefits that are already accounted for in the district’s public budget. There is no additional lump-sum payment or “buyout.” The incremental cost to the district consists of the Acting Superintendent’s pay adjustment for his additional duties.
How was the decision made for this agreement?
The Board reached its decision after careful discussion and consensus, recognizing that this transition allows the district to move forward with renewed focus and collaboration. All actions were conducted in accordance with state law and Board policy governing personnel and contractual matters.
How does this impact the students?
Glen Rock Public Schools remain strong and well-managed. The Board is proud of our administrators, teachers, and support staff. They continue to focus on delivering high-quality instruction and maintaining the supportive environment our students deserve. This agreement allows the district to move forward with clarity and continuity, focusing our collective energy on students, learning, and the next chapter of progress for Glen Rock.
What will the search for a new Superintendent look like?
The Board recognizes the importance of having a visionary leader to move the district forward and will initiate a comprehensive search for the next superintendent during this school year. We expect that the process will include opportunities for staff, families, and residents to provide input on district priorities and desired qualifications. Updates will be shared publicly as the search progresses. Our goal is to have the next superintendent in place for the start of the 2026-27 student school year. At the same time, the Board will not rush this important decision and is committed to taking the time to find the right leader for our school district and for our community.
Further questions?
Please contact the Glen Rock Board of Education at g[email protected].