Toms River Mayor Daniel Rodrick has taken an indefinite leave of absence from his teaching position in the Middletown Township school district. The leave was announced in a letter sent to parents of Thorne Middle School students, assuring them that the district is actively working to secure a qualified substitute to maintain a seamless educational experience for students.
Rodrick, who has served as both a public school teacher and mayor, has managed these dual roles despite the demanding responsibilities each position entails. While his predecessors in the mayor’s office transitioned to full-time roles following retirement from other professions, Rodrick has continued to balance his career in education with his public service.
As mayor, Rodrick earns an annual salary of $75,000, and his most recent recorded teaching salary was $106,200 as of 2021. The nature of his leave from Middletown schools has not been disclosed, and district officials have refrained from providing additional details about the circumstances.
The Middletown Township school district has emphasized its commitment to maintaining a stable learning environment for students during this transitional period. Further updates on the situation are expected as new developments arise.
