Dear SBRSD Families,
“How lucky am I to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” – A.A. Milne
The quote captures the deep emotional connection that often forms in the world of public education, especially at the close of the school year. In schools, relationships are built over time—between students and teachers, among classmates, and within entire school communities. Saying goodbye at the end of a school year can be difficult not because it’s the end, but because of how meaningful the experience has been. That difficulty is a reflection of the growth, connection, and shared memories that have made the journey so impactful.
Public education is more than academic instruction; it’s a shared space where students are encouraged to discover their identities, develop their voice, and shape their own learning paths. When students are given choice in what and how they learn—and when their voices are heard and valued—they become co-creators of their educational experience. That sense of ownership makes school more personal and meaningful, and it’s that personal connection that makes the goodbye feel significant.
For educators and school leaders, this quote also serves as a reminder of why our work matters. Each year, we have the opportunity to witness students taking risks, make choices, express themselves, and grow into capable, confident individuals. When we foster environments that support student voice and choice, we help create experiences that students don’t want to leave behind—because they’ve mattered. And while parting is bittersweet, it’s also a sign that something powerful and lasting has taken place.
As I prepare to step away from my role as superintendent after eight incredible years, I find myself reflecting on just how lucky I have been to be part of this remarkable school community. I have accepted a wonderful personal and professional opportunity, but that doesn’t make this goodbye any easier. I will miss the students, families, faculty, staff, and community partners who have made this work so rewarding. I am deeply proud of all we have accomplished together—from lifting student voice and expanding choice to strengthening safety, equity, and opportunity across our schools. It has been the honor of a lifetime to lead and serve this district, and I leave with immense gratitude and confidence in the continued strength and spirit of this community.
I wish you all a safe and relaxing summer! My hope is that you have the opportunity to reflect and recharge with friends and family, and take every chance available to make new memories.
Staffing News!
Congratulations to the new Elementary Principal - Mrs. Kathryn Retzel!
Based on the recommendations of Search Committee and feedback from the school community after public meet and greets, I am pleased to share that Mrs. Kathryn Retzel has been appointed the new Elementary Principal as of July 1, 2025 pending successful contract negotiations.
Mrs. Retzel has been a public educator in Berkshire County for over 27 years. She has been an Elementary Teacher in Grades 4 -6 for 15 of those years including spending this past school year in 5th Grade at Undermountain Elementary School. Mrs. Retzel has been an Elementary Principal in Lee and at Berkshire Hills for the balance of her career to date and will bring her vast experience in the classroom and in administration to lead our Elementary Schools at SBRSD! In her words, “ As a school leader, I am committed to maximizing the impact of the compassionate, knowledgeable, and effective staff afforded for the task; cherishing the precious time teachers are allotted for instruction and professional development; as well as utilizing a fair amount of assessments, materials, and teaching strategies at our disposal and commit to exploration of those we may find we need. We are charged and value highly, the development of the “whole” child beyond only academic results.”
Please join me in congratulating Kate on her new role and look out for information coming soon from Principal Retzel to staff and families in the coming weeks.
Congratulations to Mrs. Julie Dolan on her Retirement!
It is with mixed emotions that I share that I have accepted the retirement letter from Mrs. Julie Dolan, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Development as of August 15th, 2025.
Mrs. Dolan has been with the District since October of 2020, first as the Assistant Principal in the Elementary and then in her current role as the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Development. She had worked tirelessly as part of the Administrative Team to secure grant funding for high quality instructional materials, professional development, and coaching. She has supported teaching and learning across the District and over her tenure our outcomes for students have increased dramatically as a result.
Please join me in thanking Julie for her dedication to our students and families here at SBRSD and wish her well in her retirement!
The Superintendent Advisory Councils met for the last time yesterday all together for a culminating experience and to reflect on their experience together this year. As always, I was so impressed by their commitment and dedication to acts of kindness and ensuring their schools are welcoming for all. They are passionate about being members of the SAC and want this work to continue going forward.
The Say Hello initiative of organizing a combined Middle School and High School Field Day happened today with the goal of building relationships and creating the opportunity for interaction school wide. Next year the Say Something initiative will be the year two focus as per the grant process.
