It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Frank J. Gargiulo, former Superintendent of the Hudson County Schools of Technology.
Mr. Gargiulo's impact on our district and the field of education was profound. Through decades of dedicated service and visionary leadership, he transformed Hudson County Schools of Technology into one of the premier career and technical school districts in New Jersey, creating opportunities that changed the lives of countless students and families.
While Mr. Gargiulo's accomplishments in education and public service were remarkable, those who worked with him will remember him most for the personal connections he made every day. He knew students, staff, and families by name. He was a visible presence throughout our schools and the community, always taking the time to greet others, listen, and make people feel valued. One of his favorite parts of the day was having breakfast in the cafeteria, where he could connect with students and staff and learn firsthand what was happening in their lives and classrooms.
Mr. Gargiulo firmly believed that "Interest Drives Learning," a philosophy that became a cornerstone of our district's approach to career and technical education. He understood that when students are engaged in meaningful, relevant learning experiences, they can achieve extraordinary things. His commitment to that belief helped shape generations of graduates and continues to influence our work today.
In recognition of his extraordinary contributions, the High Tech High School campus in Secaucus was named the Frank J. Gargiulo Campus in 2018 while he was still serving as Superintendent - a fitting tribute to a leader whose legacy is woven into the fabric of our district.
On behalf of the entire Hudson County Schools of Technology community, we extend our deepest condolences to the Gargiulo family, his friends, former colleagues, students, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His influence will continue to be felt through the countless lives he touched and the generations of students whose futures were shaped by his vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to education.
Mr. Gargiulo's legacy reminds us that education is ultimately about people, relationships, and opportunities - and that interest truly does drive learning. Anyone who had the privilege of knowing Mr. Gargiulo was better for having known him.
