| Dear Peirce Community, It has been a great pleasure working with the Peirce community on the principal search process. The Selection Advisory Committee did a terrific job throughout the search and I am grateful for their commitment to finding a highly capable leader for the school. I am also appreciative of all of the Peirce staff and parents who participated in the finalist interviews both in person and over Zoom. I am delighted to announce that Andrea Vargas, currently the assistant principal at the Newman Elementary School in Needham, will be the next principal at Peirce. Throughout the search process, Andrea impressed us with her passion for excellent teaching, her commitment to developing a positive school culture, and her track record of supporting both the academic and social emotional needs of students. Her years as a teacher and leader in Needham have been characterized by innovation, positive engagement and collaboration. During her finalist interview and throughout the search process, we were most impressed by both her thoughtfulness about important educational issues and her very strong interpersonal skills. One of her references noted, “I am constantly amazed at her motivation and compassion”. In observing Andrea, it is clear to us that she demonstrates these characteristics with both adults and students. She is eager to join a district that shares her values around equity and inclusion and is excited to lead a school with a districtwide therapeutic program. Andrea feels privileged to have the opportunity to work with a highly skilled and dedicated faculty and staff. Prior to her current position, Andrea served as a classroom teacher, reading teacher and literacy coach in Needham. Andrea is a graduate of the Harvard University Extension School and has master’s degrees from Lesley University and Endicott College. I want to recognize Elaine Harold and thank her for her calm and steady leadership over the course of the year. I know the transition with Andrea will be seamless. Andrea will officially join our district on July 1. Sincerely, David Fleishman |