In recognition of retiring Old Hammondtown School Principal Kevin Tavares, Mattapoisett School Committee Chairperson Carly Lavin prepared the following remarks publicly read during the June 13 meeting of the committee:
“As you approach the culmination of what can only be described as an illustrious, three-decade journey in the Mattapoisett School District, I find myself reflecting on the impact that you had on our academic community, it’s with a mixture of joy for you and (loss) for us as I write to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering dedication and your exceptional leadership.
“Over 30 years, you’ve been a staple of Mattapoisett Schools, guiding both Center and OHS with both wisdom and integrity and a visionary outlook. Your commitment to excellence in education, your passion for nurturing young minds, and your tireless efforts to foster an environment where everyone can thrive are truly incredible.
“Under your leadership, Mattapoisett not only has achieved academic excellence but has also cultivated a culture of kindness, inclusivity and a resilience … Through the years, your guidance has shaped the futures of countless students, inspiring them to reach their fullest potential.”
Lavin went on to describe Tavares’ influence as “inspirational to all of us” and the mark he leaves on the committee as “indelible.”
Visibly affected by Lavin’s comments and the passionate applause at the conclusion of her words, Tavares alluded to the old saying that, “You don’t choose education, education chooses you.”
With that, he confessed that he had done all he could not to be a teacher after seeing his father put in 33 years.
“I’ve worked with some amazing people, but it’s all about the kids,” said Tavares, emotionally expressing his appreciation for the support he received over the years, especially from committee member Jim Muse.
Muse publicly identified Tavares with the Town of Mattapoisett and assured him he has a home in Mattapoisett.
Old Rochester Regional Superintendent of Schools Mike Nelson added his appreciation of Tavares and other retirees.
Later in the meeting, Nelson would note that Stephanie Wells will be joining the ORR District as Old Hammondtown’s new principal.
As explained by Center School Principal Laura Ashley, changes to the Student Handbook for the 2024-25 School Year will include changes to the section addressing Bullying Intervention and Prevention and a Discipline triangle chart in order to better align the individual school districts within the ORR District. The committee voted its approval.
The committee’s approval of meeting dates for the 2024-25 school year was preceded by Lavin’s public appreciation to secretary Melissa Wilcox for her work. The dates: September 12, October 17, November 21, February 6, 2025, March 13, 2025, April 10, 2025 and June 5, 2025.
The committee approved the leases of SMEC and Countryside Childcare for the 2024-25 school year. The committee approved a list of library materials to be disposed of and in a separate vote, the disposal of technology materials.
Upon the completion of Year 1 of the School Improvement Plan, Nelson said it’s time to begin reflection work and prepare for Year 2.
“We really accomplished a lot across the district,” said Ashley, referencing the plan’s emphasis on literacy.
Lavin thanked Ashley and Tavares for the presentation and said it represented a lot of work.
Nelson said the Strategic Plan’s ability to align the individual “sister districts” helps the overall health of the school system.
Assistant Superintendent of Teaching & Learning Dr. Shari Fedorowicz thanked the stakeholders for the teamwork it took to make Year 1 of ORR’s literacy initiative successful.
Amanda Hastings volunteered to represent Mattapoisett on the union side of the Joint School Committee, and Muse will continue his service on the ORR District side.
The Mattapoisett School Committee approved the following grants: a Vacation Acceleration Academies Grant of $30,500 (a grant Nelson said the district did not receive last year), High-Quality Instructional Materials Purchase Grant of $27,992 (support for sciences, especially STEM), from the Tri-Town Education Foundation Fund, $2,000 to Carolyn Pawlishen for Empowering, Engaging and Motivating Students with Learning Differences, $2,000 from The Feinstein Foundation to principal’s secretary Jennifer Janicki for a Japanese Silk Lilac tree and two wooden benches on school grounds, one in honor of the late Jenny Rusinoski and one in honor of the retiring Tavares.
The committee entered executive session for bargaining and litigation preparation purposes.
The next meeting of the Mattapoisett School Committee is scheduled for Thursday, September 12 at 6:30 pm.
Mattapoisett School Committee
By Mick Colageo