The principal of Bergenfield High School in Bergen County died on Thursday, a week after graduation and after serving 30 years with the district, officials said Friday.
James Fasano, 59, led the high school through “a remarkable transformation” that included a spot in U.S. News & World Report’s Best High School rankings for eight consecutive years, according to Superintendent Christopher Tully.
“James Fasano grew up in Bergenfield, graduated from our school district and served our school district as a coach, teacher, assistant principal and principal over the last 30 years,” Tully said Thursday in a letter to students, parents and staff.
“Principal Fasano’s unwavering commitment to student success and his passion for education have left an indelible mark on Bergenfield High School,” Tully said. “Our high school will never be the same without him.”
No cause of death was given, and a borough spokesman said Fasano’s death was sudden and unexpected.
“On behalf of our borough, we extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. Fasano,” borough officials wrote on Facebook. “Mr. Fasano was not just an educator but a beacon of positivity and inspiration for our community.”
Borough and district officials said Fasano helped equip countless graduates with the tools necessary to succeed in the years following high school.
“During his tenure in 2010, the school soared over 100 spots in the high school academic rankings, setting a trajectory of excellence that continued to ascend,” Tully said.
The progress helped the high school to achieve a spot in U.S. News and World Report’s best rankings, Tully said.
Bergenfield Mayor Arvin Amatorio said Fasano was “a pillar of our community” for nearly six decades.
“His leadership at Bergenfield High School not only elevated academic standards but also fostered a sense of belonging and unity among students, staff, and families,” Amatorio said in a statement.
“His passing leaves a void that will be felt deeply by generations of students whose lives he touched and by all who had the privilege of working alongside him,” the mayor said.
“Principal Fasano was not just an educator; he was a great partner in our efforts to strengthen our community, always willing to collaborate and innovate for the betterment of our schools and town,” Amatorio said.
Tully said grief counselors would be available for anyone wishing to speak about Fasano’s sudden passing.
The Fasano family has asked that memorials not be placed anywhere on the Bergenfield campus.
As of late Friday morning, services for Fasano had not been announced. Information about a public memorial will be posted in the coming days on the district website, Tully said.
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Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on X @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
