Statement on Announcement of New Superintendent for Boston Public Schools from BTU President Jessica Tang
“The Boston Teachers Union looks forward to partnering with the newly selected Superintendent, Mary Skipper, along with the broader Boston school community, in pursuit of creating the schools our students deserve. Superintendent Skipper has the experience, knowledge and qualities that will be integral to addressing the pressing needs facing our school district.
Now that a Superintendent has been named and we have an agreement between the city of Boston, Boston Public Schools district and the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education on a systemic improvement plan, a key next step is for the Boston Public Schools to agree to a contract with frontline educators that advances many of the local solutions long advocated for by students, families and educators. Working with the new BPS leadership, our educators will continue to bring their enthusiasm, creativity, and passion for teaching students as well as commitment to equity and inclusion to the table as we welcome Superintendent Skipper back to the Boston Public Schools and work together to build the schools our students — and our communities — deserve.
We also look forward to our continued partnership with Dr. Tommy Welch, and we thank him for his leadership and commitment to our students and schools. Our district is lucky to have his expertise and experience, as well. Lastly, we congratulate Dr. Drew Echelson on his appointment as interim superintendent and look forward to working with him to help ensure a smooth and successful transition.
As we welcome the new Superintendent, the Boston Teachers Union wants to thank Dr. Brenda Cassellius for her contributions to our public schools during what have been incredibly trying and unprecedented times. Dr. Cassellius made important contributions to the district, particularly around issues of equity and social-emotional wellness, and through her efforts to begin addressing decades of deferred maintenance on facilities. We wish her the very best in her future endeavors.”