Congratulations are in order!

Congratulations are in order for one student and one administrator!

First, the student...

Every year, I get the distinct honor to present a graduating senior with the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents Certificate of Academic Excellence. These awards are given to high school students who have distinguished themselves in the pursuit of excellence during their high school careers.

The recommended criteria are:

                                                Three (3) year cumulative average,

                                                Rank in Class,

                                                Personal Selection by the Superintendent

                                                The Superintendent has leeway among the top

                                                5% for his/her personal selection.

Upon recommendation of Ms. Christine Vigneux, BHS Principal, this year's award recipient is Devyn Hebert. Devyn exceeds the criteria listed above and is very active in the life of the school in a variety of extra-curricular activities. I presented Devyn with her certificate at the School Committee meeting on Tuesday, January 22nd at Swift River Elementary School.

Devyn Hebert (center) and Ms. Vigneux (right) join me for  the award presentation.

Devyn has also been accepted at Williams College to pursue her interest in science. Congratulations, Devyn, on your achievements!

Now the administrator...

The School Committee voted unanimously at their January 22nd meeting to approve my recommendation for a newly created Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning. Mr. Brian Cameron, currently principal at Chestnut Hill Community School, will be assuming the position in the near future.

An interim principal will be appointed to fill the principal position at CHCS for the remainder of the school year. A full search for a permanent principal will be launched very soon, with a search committee of staff and parents leading the way by conducting the initial screening and interviews of applicants.

Mr. Cameron's eight years of experience in the district, his knowledge of our curriculum process, instructional and professional development needs, and of our staff will be an invaluable asset to our district as we continue to move forward in strengthening our curriculum and instruction. It is my pleasure to congratulate Mr. Cameron on his appointment and I look forward to working with him in his new role.

Any questions or comments? Contact me at 413.323.0423 or email superintendent@belchertown.org

Best regards, Dr. Judith Houle, Superintendent of Schools