Dr. David A. Roman
Superintendent

We recently had an interview with the new Superintendent. The interview took place at the conference room in his office at the Barracks Street Administration Building. There were a couple of things that struck a chord with us in conversation.

Dr. Roman told us about his background and how he had dropped out of High School. Of course, his parents were upset, as any parents should be. He also mentioned that his mother was very educated while his father had very little formal education. Yet, he stated that his father was one of the most intelligent people he knew. Roman himself worked while he was out of school. After two years of hard work, he realized how important an education was, went back to school and received his GED. From there he went on to college, graduate school and earned various degrees including a Ed.D. He taught in various teaching positions with a culmination of being appointed Assistant Superintendent in the Hazlet School System.

Unfortunately, Perth Amboy has a high dropout rate.  Roman stated that he saw himself in these students. When Roman was talking about his father, I mentioned to him how my father, (Rockwell Maxwell) had to drop out of school. In that era that my father was growing up (1920’s – 1930’s) especially in the South, it was not uncommon to drop out of school to help out the family. In spite of this, my Dad had three successful businesses and supported his family. My mother was also a partner with him in these businesses and together they were a perfect team. This of course, was an entirely different era. Today, most companies won’t even let you through the door unless you posses at least a high school diploma.

Dr. Roman learned the hard way the importance of a good education. His story should inspire those who are thinking of dropping and out the importance of staying in school. Going back to school is a lot tougher after you’ve been away for a few years.

Dr. Roman emphasized that he would like to connect to the students. Perhaps by telling his story it would encourage those who were thinking of dropping out that it’s worth it for them to tough it out and stay in school. He was very approachable, a type of person that you would feel comfortable to give you encouragement.

That High School diploma is your ticket to success. It’s important that you have an education so that you can support yourself and be a contributing member of society. With a High School diploma you can further your education in a field of your choice.

We realize there are extenuating circumstances where a student may drop out before they complete High School. Each individual has their own story, but dropping out of school should not make you feel that there is no hope. This is why it’s important that Roman’s story is told. He can give you his perspective from both sides because he’s been there.

Roman emphasized how important it was for the students to know him. This is a good thing. He talked about how the community, the staff, the students and the Board of Education should come together. You can have disagreements, but respectful disagreements.

The bottom line: A quality education is the most important thing that a school should provide. Once one earns a  degree, nobody can take it away from you. C.M. & K.M.