by Leah Budson and Jacob Gurvis
Principal Jennifer Price announced that she has accepted the position of North Andover superintendent, and will start July 1, 2015. She said she withdrew her application for superintendent of Winchester last night.
According to Price, North Andover’s similarities to Newton as a district, both in demographics and values, played a part in her decision to accept. “They’re passionate about educating all kids. It felt like the right fit for me.”
When asked what she will miss most about North, she replied, “Hands down the people.”
“I have developed amazing relationships with the faculty, staff, parents, and students,” she said. “I’ve had the privilege of interacting with such great people on a daily basis.”
Math department head Nicole Conway is excited for Price but acknowledges that she will be missed. “She has been instrumental in my development as department head,” she said. “I am very confident she is going to do fabulous as superintendent.”
Conway said that Price’s commitment to students will be her legacy at this school. “I think she always put the students’ best interests at heart in all of her decision making. She really cares about reaching all students and giving them equal access to an excellent education,” she said.
“She doesn’t just say it. She works hard to make that a reality.”
Adams housemaster David Turcotte said Price’s work to close the achievement gap will definitely have a lasting impact on the school. “She’s really made sure that this is a place that works for kids, where in some schools they might be more marginalized and not be performing at the same levels.”
“She’s done wonderful things for the school,” he said. “I wish her and North Andover well.”