The Orange East Supervisory Union (OESU) hired Heather Lawler as its new superintendent on April 17th, 2025, after Randall Gawel’s resignation.
Gawel has been working as OESU’s superintendent for the past three years and has now accepted a position at Rivendell. Reflecting his time with OESU, he shared, “I met some amazing people and had a chance to learn a great deal from them” and has, “come to love the different characteristics of each of the schools and very much enjoyed seeing every age group–from pre-k through grade 12–learn and grow in the unique way that each of them do.” When asked to advise Lawler, Gawel stated that there are four key factors to success as a superintendent: being yourself, listening and learning from others, always keeping the students the main priority, and lastly–getting a dog. Additionally, Gawel is excited to flourish in his new role and wishes only the best for Heather Lawler.
The new superintendent, Lawler, brings an extensive background in education to OESU. She attended Southern New Hampshire University (BA in English literature), Montclair State University (MA in Educational Leadership), and New Jersey City University (MA in Educational Technology). For the past three years, Lawler has worked as the Assistant Superintendent for the Orange Southwest School District.
She accepted this new role because she wants to lead our district towards its continuing path of success and build “quality education, strong relationships, and community engagement.” She is also passionate about ensuring that in our current political climate, public schools remain strong. Lawler commented that it is important for future generations of students to receive equal opportunities to school programs, facilities, and educational experiences as those who have graduated in years past. She is particularly committed to this cause because she grew up in a single-parent, low-income household, and school was her refuge for meals, books, and “trusted adults.” She knows firsthand the impact that schools can have on students of all ages, beyond core curriculum.
When asked about what her first course of action would be when she comes to the OESU, she shared, “Listening and learning what the people value.” Rather than implementing significant changes in her first year, she wants to highlight the importance of leading a district toward its wants and needs and promoting student advocacy.
As the OESU district prepares for its new chapter under the guidance of Heather Lawler’s student-centered and relationship-building approach; BMU looks forward to new growth. Her leadership will reaffirm our values and strengthen our future vision.
Lawler officially becomes the OESU superintendent on July 1st, 2025.
