Vineland Superintendent Alfonso Llano to Take Over Camden City Schools
Photo courtesy of Vineland Public Schools
BY CLYDE HUGHES | AC JosepH Media
TRENTON — The New Jersey State Board of Education approved the recommendation last week of Vineland Schools Superintendent Alfonso Q. Llano Jr. to be appointed as State Superintendent of the Camden City School District.
Llano, who had led Vineland schools since 2021, becomes the first Latino ever named to the post.
“Mr. Llano knows that strong schools are built on collaboration, trust, and a shared commitment to student success,” outgoing New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement. “His leadership will strengthen partnerships across Camden and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive while we work together to build a brighter future for Camden’s students.”
Llano will have his work cut out for him. The state has been in control of Camden schools since 2013. A large budget deficit this year has led to school closures, staff reductions, and lost of resources counted on by parents and community members.
Camden City Schools lost more than 300 employees before the start of the current school year to close a $91 million deficit in its budget.
He will have to win over the trust of the parents who have been calling for the state to return control of schools to local residents. The job losses included family operations coordinators, or FOC, described as the liaison between families and schools.
READ: Pressing Forward – Camden Parents Want a Say in its Schools
“I am honored to serve the incredible Camden community and remain deeply committed to transparent, collaborative leadership,” Llano said in a statement released by the State Board of Education.
“I am eager to begin this work with a clear focus on ensuring every student has access to the high-quality opportunities they deserve, and I look forward to building strong partnerships that will help us achieve this shared vision.”
State Education Department Commissioner Kevin Dehmer said that Llano’s career and proven leadership made him the right choice to guide Camden.
“For more than 27 years, he has advanced academic performance, expanded opportunities for all learners, and built systems that support students, families, and educators,” Dehmer said. “His approach aligns with our priorities across New Jersey—putting students first, ensuring schools are safe and supportive, and providing every learner with the conditions they need to succeed.”
In Vineland, Llano implemented a Strategic Plan and a community-driven Portrait of a Graduate, expanded Career and Technical Education pathways, and secured a dual enrollment grant to increase college access.
He also invested in safety infrastructure and championed equitable early childhood and
bilingual programs.
Previously, he served as acting superintendent of Trenton Public Schools, overseeing 14,000 students and a $340 million budget during the pandemic, ensuring access to technology and instructional continuity. Earlier roles include Chief Academic Officer, Assistant Superintendent, principal, and teacher—each marked by a commitment to equity and student success.
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