| Dear NPS Families, It is hard to believe that I have served as superintendent in Newton for 12 years. At times it feels like yesterday that I returned to Massachusetts to take on the challenge of leading one of the larger districts in the state. At other times, especially given the pandemic, it seems like a lifetime ago. I have cherished every moment in this role, working in partnership with you to support your children and our schools. However, as so many of you know, there comes a time in one’s professional life when an opportunity presents itself that is the right next move and a natural next step. And so, it is with very mixed feelings that I share with you that I am leaving the Newton Public Schools at the end of this year to become the President/Chief Executive Officer of JVS Boston, one of the largest providers of adult education and workforce development services in New England. While very different from a school district, the core mission of JVS aligns with my personal and professional commitment to advancing issues of economic and social justice through the lens of education, skill development, and support. Over the past 12 years, with the support of the Newton community, we have achieved so many important goals. I am particularly proud that we have embraced diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as social-emotional development, and made them part of the fabric of our district. At the same time, NPS students continue to thrive academically by engaging with dynamic educators committed to providing both challenge and support. It has also been wonderful to have played a role in lasting improvements such as full day kindergarten, 1:1 technology, and our new and renovated school buildings. While the last few weeks have indeed been challenging, I am very pleased with the mayor’s announcement last night that additional funding will now be available for our schools. This added funding will help to preserve many of the outstanding initiatives and supports we have created in recent years. Although the work ahead will not be easy, I am confident that the talented and dedicated faculty and staff in our district will continue to meet the needs of our students. I leave you with a strong and highly skilled district leadership team in place. It is a team that knows this district well and will steer it safely and smoothly through this transition. I also feel privileged to have hired a majority of our principals, who continue to lead their communities with thoughtfulness, care, and compassion during stressful and challenging times. I know the School Committee will be in touch in the coming days regarding next steps for district leadership. Newton has shown perseverance and resilience through tough times, and I am confident that the future is bright for this special district. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to work on behalf of our students, staff, and families and I am truly grateful for the experience. Sincerely, David Fleishman |