Executive Director Transition

Dear Abby Kelley Staff and Families,

Following the Board of Trustees meeting on June 24, we would like to share an important leadership update with our school community.

The Board of Trustees has appointed Grace Howard-Donlin to serve as Acting Executive Director, effective upon the conclusion of Heidi Paluk’s service on July 2, 2026.

This appointment is intended to provide immediate leadership, continuity and stability as the School transitions into the summer months and prepares for the opening of the 2026-2027 school year. The Board believes that maintaining steady day-to-day leadership is in the best interests of our students, families, faculty, and staff.

To support a successful transition, the Board has established an Ad Hoc Transition Committee that will work closely with the Acting Executive Director over the coming months. The committee will establish transition goals, provide guidance and support, and regularly review progress to help ensure the School continues to operate effectively during this period. As the transition progresses, the Board will continue to evaluate the School’s long-term leadership needs and determine the appropriate path forward.

The Board is confident in Mrs. Howard-Donlin’s ability to lead the School during this transition and appreciates the continued professionalism and dedication of our faculty and staff. We ask our entire school community to support her as we work together to ensure a successful beginning to the upcoming school year.

As we look ahead, we also want to recognize and thank Executive Director Heidi Paluk for more than fifteen years of dedicated service to Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School.

Mrs. Paluk first served the School as a parent, then as a member and Chair of the Board of Trustees, and ultimately as Executive Director. Throughout her tenure, she played a significant role in advancing the School’s mission and strengthening the organization. Her leadership helped guide Abby Kelley through numerous challenges, most notably the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under her leadership, the School also maintained strong financial stewardship, positioning Abby Kelley with significant financial stability to support its future. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, we thank Heidi for her many years of commitment and service to Abby Kelley Foster Charter Public School and wish her every success in the future.Following the Board of Trustees meeting on June 24, we would like to share an important leadership update with our school community.

If you have any questions, please contact Nardella Thomas.

Patrick Royce

Chair, Board of Trustees

Shelly Yarnie

Incoming Chair, Board of Trustees