Seekonk Public Schools are Losing Three Exceptional Leaders

At the end of this school year, three leaders in the Seekonk Public School system are stepping down. Superintendent Arlene Bosco, Finance Director Barbara Hamel, and Aitken Principal Nancy Gagliardi are all retiring. Each performed a different role within the school district, but each had one thing in common: they always did what they thought were in the best interests of the students of Seekonk.

Working in the school district for many years, each was instrumental in helping the district advance programs that will help children be more successful and be better able to make their way as adults in an ever more competitive world. Seekonk Public Schools were able to remain administratively lean because of their institutional knowledge and willingness to always do more than what was in the job description. On their way out the door, they fought to add in the administrative positions that they knew would be necessary for the school department and its new administrators to succeed.

They often worked their regular days and then were at one school or another for school committee meetings, budget meetings, curriculum meetings, strategic plan meetings, etc. They were all three very dedicated to their work, and all three had to at times make difficult decisions. They always kept their focus, and a sense of humor, all while always doing their best to keep in mind what was best for the students of Seekonk.

As a school committee member for 3.5 years, it was my honor and privilege to work alongside them. They have all three left big shoes to fill. Mrs. Bosco has done a good job at finding incoming administrators who she believes will carry on the legacy of doing what is best for students, and she is to be commended for that. I would also like to commend the current school committee for their incoming Superintendent election, Mr. Droley. I wish him and his incoming staff the best of luck in maintaining Seekonk’s high academic standards, while never losing sight of our children’s overall well-being.

John Dietel