The Superintendent Effect
The Superintendent Effect
The Superintendent Effect
What It Really Takes to Lead a School District with Dr. Melissa Stager
16 minutes Posted May 12, 2026 at 1:00 pm.
0:00
16:27
Download MP3
Show notes

Dr. Melissa Stager, Superintendent of Clinton Township School District and former educator at the New Jersey Department of Education, joins Chief Strategy Officer Mark Welling on The Superintendent Effect to discuss her lifelong commitment to strengthening public education and expanding opportunity for every student.


In this special episode, Dr. Stager shares the story behind her district's ambitious "80 Percent in 3" literacy initiative, her approach to empowering teachers through grassroots leadership, and why protecting student mental health resources remains a non-negotiable priority.


She also opens up about the mentors who shaped her career, what it truly means to lead with purpose, and her belief that every child — regardless of zip code — deserves access to a quality public education.


Don't miss her story.