Superintendent Spotlight with Dr. Michael Portas

Dr. Michael Portas is joined by Alyssa Bellardino, Supervisor of ELA and Media PK-12, and Melissa Barcadepone, NB Reading Specialist, for an informative discussion about our new K-3 Universal screening tool, DIBELS 8.

Resources: Results Letter- https://bit.ly/dibelsresultletter DIBELS Q&A- https://bit.ly/dibelsqa DIBELS 8 Tips for Families- https://bit.ly/dibelstips Parent Reflection Form- https://bit.ly/dibelsparentreflection

On the latest podcast, PTHS seniors Bella and Sophia update Dr. Portas on the District promotional video they are creating for their Marketing Capstone class. Stay tuned for the finished product!

The 2026-2027 school year calendar is here! In true NFL schedule release fashion, Dr. Portas takes a look at the newly approved 26-27 calendar with Mr. Hayzler and Miss Blau. They discuss how the calendar is created and point out many important upcoming dates. Mr. Hayzler and Miss Blau also touch on events to look forward to during the upcoming school year.

In this episode, Dr. Portas discusses the educational use of AI with 6 students who are serving on the Pequannock AI Committee. Posted April 8th, 2025.

Dr. Michael Portas and Coach Michael Moschella are joined by Henry Struble, PTHS senior and recipient of the 2025 Super Football Conference Steve DiGregorio Young Man of the Year Award. Henry is an accomplished student, athlete and entrepreneur. His company, Bikes By Hank, has donated over $25,000 to local, state and national charities. A total of 114 players were nominated from the 2024 season. Congratulations, Henry!

In this episode, Dr. Portas introduces Mr. David Raffo, the new Assistant Principal of Pequannock Valley Middle School. Mr. Raffo chronicles his background as an educator and how his journey has brought him to Pequannock. He outlines his future aspirations as assistant principal for PV. Welcome, Mr. Raffo! 

Mr. Matt Shea, Chief Technology Officer, is back for an informative podcast with Dr. Portas on AI in education. Mr. Shea shares his involvement in AI not only for our district but at a state level. He outlines major concerns as well as the many benefits this new technology can provide to our school community. A parent university night is forthcoming.

In this episode, Dr. Michael Portas sits down with Mr. Christopher Foglio, Director of Student Services 6-12+, and Mrs. Caitlin Fitzpatrick, School Counselor. They discuss the college application process and share strategies to make the process less overwhelming and more enjoyable for families. They share tips on how students can better prepare themselves for the process and how to ultimately make the best decision. Stay tuned for a follow up podcast focusing on the college application essay! 

Dr. Michael Portas and Dr. Elissa Scillieri hone in on our elementary standards based report cards ahead of the completion of the first trimester. Dr. Scillieri speaks about her role in the development of the standards based report cards, the benefits they provide and how to interpret them.

In this episode, Dr. Portas is joined by the Superintendent of Butler Schools, Dr. Daniel Johnson. Dr. Portas and Dr. Johnson discuss chronic absenteeism, a growing concern which is not only on the rise in New Jersey but around the country. They exchange strategies for districts and families alike to address common barriers that lead to students missing school and ultimately improve attendance.