Cheers erupted across the School Committee chambers Wednesday night as the seven-person panel chose Brenda Cassellius as the next superintendent of Boston Public Schools, based on her work with achievement gaps and equity, her desire to work with families and teachers, and her experience working with the state.
“We need to move beyond the bitter feelings in our district,” said member Michael O’Neill. “I think Dr. Cassellius is the superintendent we need now in Boston.”
Cassellius was the fan favorite, with many believing she would be best to incorporate the needs of students and families in the district.
“We are really pleased with the selection. We hope it indicates a new willingness by the School Committee and the mayor to listen to the community,” said Lisa Green, a member of the Boston Coalition for Education Equity.
Cassellius was the Minnesota Commissioner of Education from 2011 to this year, previously working as a paraprofessional, teacher and superintendent in districts in Minnesota and Tennessee. Her accomplishments include new funding for schools, enactment of all-day kindergarten, state-funded preschool, and high graduation rates.