Superintendent Dr. Kwame Morton sent an email to parents of Cherry Hill High School East students on Friday, Feb. 20, at 12 p.m., announcing his recommendation for Dr. John Cafagna — who has been in the district for 27 years — to serve as East’s principal effective July 1, 2026. On Feb. 24, the Cherry Hill Board of Education will vote on whether to appoint him to the role.
A committee consisting of East faculty members and Central Administrators presented Morton with two finalists for the role, who both underwent a series of interviews with East students, faculty, and parents, before Cafagna was ultimately selected.
Cafagna’s appointment follows a tumultuous period for East administration that began with Dr. Dennis Perry’s retirement in September 2024. After which, Mr. Daniel Finkle served as East’s principal from September 2024 to November 2025, before resigning from his position. As a result of Finkle’s abrupt departure, Mrs. Leslie Walker was appointed to the role of East’s interim principal in October 2025, while the search for East’s next permanent principal ensued.
Cafagna has an extensive history in the district, serving as principal of the Coles Alternative Program, Bret Harte Elementary School, Carusi Middle School, Horace Mann Elementary School, and currently, Rosa International Middle School across 21 years. Prior to his numerous experiences in a principal position, Cafagna served for six years in varying positions as an educational technologist, teacher, basketball coach, and assistant principal at Rosa International Middle School.
In his email to East parents, Morton praised Cafagna’s leadership track record and expressed confidence in his ability to lead East.
“Throughout his career, Dr. Cafagna has consistently demonstrated his dedication to fostering collaboration, amplifying student voices, and achieving academic excellence,” Morton wrote. “He is deeply committed to creating a supportive and inspiring environment, and approaches every leadership role with enthusiasm, optimism, and a people-centered philosophy. His deep familiarity with our community will provide inspiration and positive direction for both our students and staff.”
As the fourth principal of East in just two years, Cafagna is expected to bring a renewed sense of stability to the school’s administration. While his exact goals for East’s future still remain unclear, Morton’s recommendation signals the district’s confidence in Cafagna’s ability to guide East into a new chapter of success and achievement.
This is an ongoing story; Eastside will publish updates as more information becomes available.
