Meet Millburn's New Schools Security Coordinator

The Millburn School District hired on Monday a retiring police captain to handle district security — do you know him? Well you should he's been working in Millburn for 25 years.

Born and raised in West Orange and current resident of West Caldwell, Michael Palardy has been with the Millburn Police Department since 1988 where he moved up through the ranks to captain. 

According to Palardy, he will be leaving the Millburn Police Department on Aug. 30. He will use his acquired time off before officially retiring in February. 

So before he takes over his new role on Sept. 3, Patch sat down with Palardy so parents and resident could get to know him and what he will bring to the new position: 

What experience as a veteran police officer makes you a good fit for this position?

Palardy: Besides being an officer for 25 years in town, I currently oversee the juvenile bureau in the Millburn Police Department.

What will you personally bring to this position?

Palardy: I would bring a common sense approach. I would have to start off seeing what they have in place already but I know John Van Peechelenburgh, who's in charge of building and grounds has done a lot of the leg work already. 

What do your foresee as the hardest initial challenge in taking on this new role?

Palardy: Since its hard to really measure the effectiveness all aspects of security that becomes a challenge. Mainly, the goal is to minimize or eliminate any incidents of danger to the school environment so that everyone stays safe. 

Anything you would like to add or say to the parents in the school district?

Palardy: The Millburn school system is a very safe environment to send to your children and my goal is to keep it that way.