Plainfield Public Schools

PLAINFIELD, NJ – September 26, 2024 – Plainfield Public Schools announces Danielle Mastrogiovanni, Ed. D., as the Chief of Equity and School Improvement, effective September 25, 2024.

Superintendent of Schools Rashon K. Hasan, Ed. S., stated. “Dr. Mastrogiovanni’s extensive experience and commitment to educational equity will be invaluable as we strive to create an inclusive environment that meets the diverse needs of all our students. Her innovative approach will enhance academic outcomes and strengthen a culture of group effort and support among staff, students, and the community. We are confident that our initiatives will drive meaningful change under her leadership.”

Danielle Mastrogiovanni is a dedicated educator who views education as a vehicle for social justice. Prior to her appointment as Chief of Equity and School Improvement, she held various roles, including teacher, literacy coach, Supervisor of Humanities, and most recently, Director of Early Childhood Education for the Plainfield Public School District.

Her research interests have long centered on culturally responsive practices. In 2001, she conducted graduate-level action research at Brooklyn College on the impact of culturally relevant literature, laying the groundwork for her ongoing exploration of equity in education. In 2021, she defended her doctoral dissertation at Seton Hall University, which examined the understanding and applications of culturally responsive leadership among equity-focused superintendents in New Jersey. This influential research was published in The Journal of Research on Leadership Education, where her article, “Deeper Than a Lesson:” New Jersey School Superintendents’ Approaches to Culturally Relevant Education, highlights strategies that district leaders employ to create equitable educational experiences. She has presented locally, nationally, and internationally on best practices in literacy, culturally responsive pedagogy, and equity-focused leadership.

In September 2022, Dr. Mastrogiovanni became the Director of the Division of Early Childhood for Plainfield Public Schools, which serves over 1,600 students. During her tenure, she prioritized quality academic and social-emotional learning experiences, recognizing the critical role these elements play in fostering a supportive and equitable educational environment. Dr. Mastrogiovanni implemented improvements to the curriculum that emphasized culturally responsive pedagogy and inclusive teaching practices, ensuring that all students feel valued and understood. Her commitment to enhancing both academic and social-emotional outcomes has significantly advanced the district's equity goals, providing every child with the opportunity to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

Through her diverse roles and passionate advocacy, Dr. Mastrogiovanni has been unwavering in her commitment to creating learning environments that honor the diverse backgrounds of all students and their families. In her new position as Chief of Equity and School Improvement, she will work to ensure that Plainfield Schools prioritize social justice in their practices, so that every student has access to an inclusive and supportive learning environment

Dr. Mastrogiovanni earned her bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Naropa University in Boulder, Colorado through a study course that emphasized mindfulness's importance in education. Although she is proud of her professional achievements, raising three sons, including a set of twins, now 20 and 16, respectively, has been her most challenging job and greatest accomplishment.

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For more information on the Plainfield Public School District or this story, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communications at information@plainfield.k12.nj.us or by phone at, (908) 731-4442.