Dear St. Mary’s School of Piscataway Community,

I am pleased to announce that Mr. Jack Schaefer will join St. Mary’s School of Piscataway as the interim principal beginning on October 7, 2024. We are grateful to have Mr. Schaefer’s expertise and dedication during this transitional period. I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to Father Plummer for his ongoing support throughout this process.

Mr. Schaefer is a product of Catholic education having attended Catholic schools from kindergarten through high school. He graduated from Michigan State University and was part of the 26th cohort of the Alliance for Catholic Education (ACE) Teaching Fellows through the University of Notre Dame.

Professionally, Mr. Schaefer has worked with the ACE Academies in Indianapolis where he spent time in the classroom as a math teacher and served as the director of scholar life focusing on the academic and social-emotional needs of scholars. For the past two years, Mr. Schaefer has worked at Our Lady of Victory in Washington, D.C. as the elementary coordinator. He led professional learning communities for elementary teachers, supporting them in instructional methods, classroom management, and data analysis. Mr. Schaefer also completed the Archdiocese of Washington Leadership Academy where he developed a professional growth project focused on creating a culture of thinking across the school community. He is currently a member of the 16th cohort of the Reformed Leader Summit through the University of Notre Dame, examining education policies and reforms nationwide.

On a personal level, Mr. Schaefer enjoys hiking, camping, and playing sports like football, basketball, and baseball. He also loves reading science fiction and fantasy novels.

Mr. Schaefer shared his enthusiasm for his new role, stating, "I am excited to partner with the St. Mary's Piscataway community to empower our scholars and school so we may continue to grow in faith, knowledge, and love."

I am very grateful for the support and assistance provided by the entire community in this process, and I have every confidence that Mr. Schaefer will lead St. Mary’s well through this interim period. Please join me in welcoming Mr. Schaefer to St. Mary’s School of Piscataway.

May God’s blessings be with you and your families.

Peace of Christ,

Kelly Branaman
Secretary for Catholic Schools and Superintendent of Schools