VP, athletic director to retire

Hardyston - Alex Roney, vice principal of the Hardyston Township Middle School, will retire as of July 1. Roney, who has been with the district for 38 years, is also the district’s athletic director. “It’s the end of an era,” said Christine Clavin, school board president. District Superintendent Martin J. Supman said it will be difficult to find a replacement for Roney. “I know Alex has a great love for this school, the students, the teachers and the district, and this was a very hard decision for him to make. I think it’s going to be a real loss to Hardyston Township. He’s put his heart and soul into this district. Those are some big shoes to be filled.” Roney started in the district as a physical education teacher and coach, “coaching every sport there is,” according to Sumpman. He then served as assistant principal of the elementary school before becoming the first vice principal at the new middle school. According to Sumpman, part of Roney’s decision to retire now was based on pension changes introduced by Gov. Christie. Teachers who retire by Aug. 1 of this year will receive full benefits and pension as they have in the past, while teachers who retire after that deadline will receive a reduced package.