March 2, 2026 - Board Brief

Last night’s Board of Education meeting opened with the unanimous appointment of Ms. Lina M. Carolini-Cannavò as the next Principal of Farragut Middle School, effective July 1, 2026. 🎉 Selected following a highly competitive search process that drew more than 100 applicants and included multiple rounds of interviews, Advisory Committee engagement, and extensive reference checks, Ms. Carolini-Cannavò brings a strong record of instructional leadership, collaboration, and commitment to supporting students academically, socially, and emotionally. 📚

High School Principal Andy Clayman and Athletics Director Drew Wendol shared an update on the Wrestling Restorative Support Program (Jan 5–20, 2026), which focused on accountability, repairing harm, and supporting students through meetings, academic monitoring, counseling, and family communication. Most varsity wrestlers were reinstated by January 30, and the program has strengthened, fostering growth and a positive future for our student-athletes 💪✨.

Dr. McKersie shared highlights from across the District. Hillside students celebrated Kindness Week with spirit days, daily challenges, and thoughtful acts like greeting others and writing thank-you notes. At FMS, 37 students competed in the American Debate League Winter Classic, with several earning Top Speaker and Top Team awards—congratulations to Phoebe Gelfand and Mehrunissa Rao, who advance to Harvard! 🥇🎉 HHS welcomed back Academic Field Day, where students explored new interests through teacher-led workshops, building connections and community. 📚🎨

Dr. McKersie also provided an update on the search for the next Assistant Superintendent of Pupil Personnel Services, set to begin July 1, 2026. The process, launched February 10, includes broad community input, Listening Roundtables, Committee Orientation, and multiple interview stages, culminating in a Board vote on April 21. 🗓️ This structured search ensures a committed, long-term leader who will advance student support, equity, and well-being across the District.

Finally, Dr. McKersie provided a brief update on the upcoming search for an Interim Director of Student Belonging for 2026–27. This role will play a key part in fostering an inclusive, equitable, and welcoming school culture, supporting the academic, social, and emotional growth of all students. The position will be posted for both internal and external candidates in the coming week. 💛🤝

Maureen Caraballo provided the Board with an update on the progress of bond-related projects 🏫. She shared that the district has received State approvals for masonry restoration at Farragut Complex and MEP upgrades at Hillside School, and that field work is currently out to bid with strong contractor interest. Farragut additions are expected to be submitted to the State within the next month. She also highlighted that key design elements, including the elevator and additional bathrooms, remain intact, and that careful scheduling and budget adjustments are keeping projects on track and aligned with the approved bond ✅.

Melissa Szymanski, Ed.D., provided the Board with an update on middle school mathematics and high school course placement planning 📚. She shared that the district secured staffing for three sections of math enrichment, running twice weekly for ten weeks, with Schedule B alignment underway for students starting March 16. The team is also reviewing the possibility of 7th-grade double accelerated math and evaluating Algebra prerequisites for Geometry placement. In addition, Dr. Szymanski highlighted recent mid-winter student trips abroad: Latin students explored Italy’s culture, history, and cuisine, while Spanish students immersed in language and local traditions in Cartagena, Colombia 🌎. These experiences foster global awareness, cultural engagement, and hands-on learning.

📅 The next Board of Education meeting will take place on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Hillside Multi-Purpose Room. Maureen Caraballo will present the Proposed Instructional Budget 📚💰.

🎥 Missed the meeting? Watch the full recording, including all presentations and discussions HERE.