Beyond the Bell

Before the first bell rings each morning, the halls of Mountain Lakes High School are already coming to life—and Principal Richard Mangili is often there to see it happen. From managing the daily demands of running a school to addressing the evolving needs of students, families, and staff, his decisions extend beyond the classroom, shaping the experiences of students and influencing the future of the community itself. 

“Being a principal is about much more than schedules, meetings, and policies. It’s about creating a school where every student feels a part of the Laker family,” says Mangili. As Chromebooks are charged, school supplies purchased, and back-to-school clothes prepped, Mangili hopes students know that he has their backs.   

With an education philosophy deeply rooted in building relationships first, Mangili wants to be approachable and authentic to his students. “I enjoy talking with students about sports, college plans, their weekend, or whatever is happening in their lives,” he says. “Sometimes they need advice, encouragement, or simply need someone to listen. I’ve learned that students don’t expect you to be perfect—they just want to know that you’re real, that you care, and that you’re in their corner.” 

Early Beginnings   

Born and raised in Rhode Island, the University of Rhode Island grad moved to New Jersey in 1996. His career began as a Social Studies teacher in Brooklyn, New York. “Shortly afterward, I accepted a position in the New Providence School District, where I taught middle social studies from 1998 to 2004,” he says.  

He then returned to his home state of Rhode Island to serve as the Assistant Principal at Narragansett High School. “I spent five years there before New Jersey called me back once again.” Mangili became the Principal of East Hanover Middle School, then later Cedar Grove Middle School, and in 2013, principal of Cedar Grove High School, but he didn’t stop there.  

“In October 2020, I was given the opportunity to become the principal of Mountain Lakes High School, and it was an opportunity I didn’t hesitate to accept,” he says. As he embarks on his seventh year as principal at MLHS, Mangili is grateful. “I feel fortunate to be part of such an exceptional school community,” he says.  “Every stop along my career has helped shape the educator and leader I am today, and I couldn’t be happier with where that journey has led me.”   

Mangili credits an exceptional staff at MLHS for helping take on the team effort of educating teenagers. “No principal succeeds alone, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by such talented, caring professionals every day,” he says. “They are the heart of Mountain Lakes High School, and our students are better because of them.”  

Working with staff to create a safe learning environment where students feel supported and encouraged to reach their highest potential is most important to Mangili. “I truly believe our staff is one of MLHS’s greatest strengths. We have exceptional teachers, counselors, support staff, and administrators who genuinely care about our students and are constantly looking for ways to help them grow academically, socially, and emotionally,” he says.  

He credits his Assistant Principal, Lisa Cortes, as an exceptional educator and leader. “I couldn’t ask for a better partner,” says Mangili. The Director of School Counseling, Ray Searles, is another valued colleague. “Ray’s dedication to our students and families is invaluable, along with four incredible supervisors who work tirelessly to support our teachers, students, and school community,” he says.  

Director of Special Services Kerry DiGiacinto has an office in Mountain Lakes High School, and Superintendent Dr. Brad Siegel and Assistant Superintendent Dr. Ivonne Ciresi are close by. “Having district leadership so accessible creates a true team approach where everyone works together with one common goal,” says Mangili.   

Mission-Driven

Mangili describes his position as incredibly rewarding. “I truly enjoy getting to know our students, watching them grow over four years, cheering them on at athletic events, concerts, school performances, and celebrating all of their accomplishments along the way,” he says. “One of my favorite times of the year is seeing the excitement on our seniors’ faces when they are accepted into the colleges, universities, military, or career opportunities they’ve been dreaming about since they began their high school journey. Sharing in those moments with them is the best part of my job. After four years together, you can’t help but feel like a proud parent watching your own kids succeed.” 

Outside of school, Mangili enjoys spending time with his wife and three daughters. Like most parents, raising children goes by in a flash, and he appreciates every moment.  “Watching them grow into the people they are today has been one of the greatest joys of my life,” he says.  

In his spare time, Mangili stays active through CrossFit and running. Earlier this year, he completed his first Disney Half Marathon and enjoys challenging himself and making the most out of life with those he loves most.  

With September upon us, Mangili offers words of advice for students. “Don’t be afraid to get involved. Join a club, try out for a team, or attend school events. Some of the best memories and friendships you’ll make in high school happen outside of the classroom,” he says. “Remember that it’s okay not to have everything figured out on day one. Ask questions, work hard, be kind to others, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Those experiences often become your greatest lessons. These four years go by incredibly fast, so be present, enjoy the moments, and make memories you’ll remember long after graduation.”