I officially took the helm as Superintendent of the Lexington Public Schools on July 1, 2015.  First and foremost, let me take this opportunity to thank the School Committee, Town Manager Carl Valente, the Board of Selectmen, administrators, staff, and parents for their warm welcome and hospitality.  It is a privilege for me to serve as this district’s Superintendent of Schools and to have the support of such a wonderful and caring community.

 

In this brief amount of time, I have already been fortunate to visit our schools, to meet with staff, and connect with parent organizations.  This experience has been incredibly invigorating, inspiring, and valuable.  The transition has begun, and as we start our work together, I believe that each of us can and will play a significant role in the continuous growth and improvement of our school system.

 

Since day one, I have begun the process of understanding the composition and character of Lexington by engaging in three fundamental activities: Listening, Learning, and Leading.  The process began with the development of two surveys: one for parents and one for the district leadership team.  The feedback gathered from the surveys is a way for me to learn about the goals, successes, challenges, and concerns of our school community and will be used to inform my entry plan.

 

The aforementioned activities also form the foundation of my leadership style.  I will be visible in our schools and community and will meet with staff, parents/guardians, students, and community members.  Developing partnerships is vital to our collaborative work.  Working in concert with parent organizations and town government officials is essential to the success of our mission.  Of equal importance is building positive, professional relationships with district leadership and staff members throughout our school system.  I also believe that decisions should always be made based upon what is in the best interest of our students.  We may not always agree, but our primary mission must always be to ensure the safety and academic and social-emotional well-being of our students.  In conjunction with our School Committee, those partnerships, collaborative efforts, and beliefs form the substance of who I am as an educator and leader.

 

During this summer, the School Committee and I will engage in a workshop that will focus on School Committee norms, goal setting, and a review of the district goals for the 2015-2016 school year.  This workshop will help provide the foundation for my goals during the next academic year, as well as help to shape the work of our schools. 

 

I encourage you to read my 90 Day Transition Plan  (Click on link in blue to download the full plan) which is guiding my efforts for the next few months.  I welcome your feedback. 

 

I look forward to our work together in providing a high quality education for ALL students in the Lexington Public Schools.