At a time when all eyes are on our schools following the tragedy in Uvalde, Texas, Newburgh has named a new superintendent to take charge of the district’s children and future. 

Dr. Jackielyn Manning Campbell will begin her role as superintendent July 1. 

She’s taught and led for two and half decades in schools in Mount Vernon, New York City, White Plains and New Rochelle. 

“Safety is the most important thing we have to do as educators,” said Manning Campbell. “One of the first things I’ll be doing is really taking a look at the safety plan.” 

The Newburgh school district has faced criticism earlier this year for a security breach that resulted in several students being attacked inside NFA Main. 

The rise in student violence seen nationwide has also become a growing concern. 

“As an administrative body, as a city, as a community – we really have to bridge the gap,” said Manning Campbell. “We really have to partner with the community because we truly cannot do this alone.” 

Dr. Manning Campbell’s leadership comes at a crucial time for educators and the district – after a highly scrutinized sexual harassment scandal against her predecessor, Dr. Roberto Padilla, and a recently filed civil lawsuit. 

“This new leadership is going to be inclusive,” said Manning Campbell. “We are going to be transparent. We are about the business of educating all children and we are doing this together.” 

Manning Campbell says moving forward she hopes to highlight students setting an example by making a difference in their schools to “put Newburgh on the map” for its successes, rather than negativity.