Dr. Thomas McCann Named Interim Superintendent of Vineland Public Schools

Thirty years after he first walked the halls of Landis Middle School as a teacher, Dr. Thomas P. McCann is now running the entire district. The Vineland Board of Education approved the retired Vineland High School principal as interim superintendent through June 30, 2026, at a rate of $650 per day, filling the vacancy left when Alfonso Q. Llano departed to become the state-appointed superintendent in Camden.

"This is a proud moment for me," McCann said. "I know it's not an easy job."

McCann retired as principal of Vineland High School in 2018 after more than three decades working across two district schools, Landis Middle School and the high school. His interim term runs from March 1 through the end of the academic year, placing him at the helm during the final months of the 2025-26 school year.

The transition carried an emotional charge at the February 4 Board of Education meeting, where members formally said goodbye to Llano. The outgoing superintendent fought back tears as he reflected on his tenure and the people who made it possible. "The work mattered," Llano said. "It was grounded in the belief that all students can achieve greatness." He credited several initiatives with driving student outcomes: expanding career and technical programs, reducing chronic absenteeism, launching the Ninth Grade Academy, and restructuring leadership at the high school.

McCann, stepping into the role, framed his interim assignment in terms of continuity. He pointed to Vineland graduates who have gone on to successful careers and civic roles, noting that four current members of the school board are among the alumni he is proud to see. "It shows how successful Vineland is," he said. "It's a fine running machine and I hope to keep it that way."

Since taking over, McCann has been visible inside district classrooms, engaging directly with students during school visits. With the academic year winding down, the board has not publicly announced a timeline for a permanent superintendent search.