With Principal Mr. Ryan recently promoted to Superintendent, Mendham High School now looks to longtime Vice Principal Ms. Meagher, who will step into the role of Acting Principal for the remainder of the school year. Known for her commitment and tireless work behind the scenes, Ms. Meagher brings over 30 years of experience in education, as well as a heartfelt dedication to students, staff, and families alike.

“This is truly my dream job,” she says, reflecting on the transition. “I come from a long line of educators, and I’ve always felt called to this work.” That calling has translated into a career defined by passion, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. For her, the principalship is more than a title; rather, it is a responsibility she holds with deep respect. “I’m passionate about education, about this school, and about making sure we continue to provide the best experience possible for our students. Every decision made comes from a place of deep respect for this community and a desire to see every student succeed, feel supported, and be inspired. I will continue to work with the dedicated leadership team with this in mind.”

Looking ahead, Ms. Meagher outlines a clear and confident vision. “My vision is simple: strong, united, and proud.” To her, a school is a vibrant community built on shared values and mutual support. “I believe that a school is more than just a building; it’s a living, breathing community of students and educators working and growing together,” she explains. She wants each student to feel “welcome, respected, and successful—not only in the classroom, but in every part of their school experience.” Maintaining a “broad, purposeful, inclusive, and rigorous” curriculum is part of that vision, one that prepares students for the future while celebrating who they are today. “Let’s get to the finish line together!”

Her leadership style, she says, is rooted in collaboration. “I’d describe my leadership style as collaborative, collegial, and inclusive.” She emphasizes listening—to students, staff, and families—and sees her role as one that supports and uplifts others. “I strive to be approachable, organized, and deeply caring. Above all, I lead with kindness because I believe people do their best work when they feel valued and supported.”

Academic excellence remains front and center under her guidance, with a particular emphasis on empowering educators. “We’ll continue our tradition of hiring knowledgeable, passionate educators and giving them the support they need to grow professionally,” she says. She values the expertise of teachers and supervisors and believes in creating an environment where faculty feel heard and encouraged. “I believe in listening to our teachers, trusting our excellent supervisors, and working closely with our district leadership to ensure we’re providing a curriculum and classroom experience that is current, challenging, and meaningful.” She points to numbers that support her approach, explaining how “research consistently shows that when teachers feel supported by strong building leadership, student achievement improves significantly—schools with high levels of teacher-administrator collaboration see up to 20% higher student performance outcomes.” For her, supervisors are key to this mission. “Our supervisors play a key role in maintaining academic excellence, and I trust in their ability to guide and support our faculty every step of the way.”

Outside the classroom, she’s equally committed to expanding the school’s partnerships. “Our strength as a school comes from our partnerships,” she says, including families as well as the broader community. “I’ll continue to work closely with families and engage actively with our incredible PTTO,” she adds. She’s also focused on “maintaining and strengthening our relationships with community leaders, local businesses, and organizations,” noting that “together, we can ensure that our students have the support they need both inside and outside of school.”

As Mendham High School moves into its final stretch of the year, Ms. Meagher is embracing what she calls one of the busiest and exciting times on the calendar. “I’m looking forward to supporting our students through AP and IB testing next month and then celebrating all the amazing end-of-year events,” she says. She’s especially eager for the Blackwell Street Student Art Show, national competitions for both the Mock Trial and FBLA teams, and the full lineup of Spring Choral, Orchestra, and Band Honors Concerts. She is particularly excited about spring sports, including the new Unified Sports Flag Football team and its debut season.

She’s also looking ahead to hallmark traditions like the Senior Awards Assembly, Prom, Relay for Life, Mr. Mendham, and of course, the Commencement Ceremony for the Class of 2025. “It’s such a joyful season,” she says, “and I feel lucky to experience it alongside our students and families.”

Ms. Meagher steps into the role of Acting Principal not as a stranger to the community but as a steady and familiar leader. Her approach blends warmth, professionalism, and a deep sense of purpose, qualities that will carry Mendham High School through the remainder of the year and beyond.