Superintendent Michael S. Nelson announces that Old Hammondtown School and Center School Principal Rose Bowman will retire at the conclusion of the 2021-2022 school year.
“Principal Bowman has been a wonderful leader of our Mattapoisett Elementary Schools for the past 20-plus years,” Superintendent Nelson said. “She has been a staple in our district and will be very much missed by students, staff and families alike. We appreciate her contributions and unwavering dedication to our district and wish her all the best in her retirement.”
Added Mattapoisett School Committee Chair Jim Muse, “I have had the honor and privilege to know and work with Rose Bowman for 30 years. She is the ultimate educator that, by her example, teaches all those around her to conduct themselves in a thoughtful manner and to treat everyone with respect, compassion and dignity. When I face difficult or contentious situations, I look to find my inner Rose Bowman, and what I see is a compass for equity, integrity and professionalism.”
Principal Bowman began her career as a second grade teacher with the New Bedford Public Schools in 1971. In 1986, she became a preschool teacher at The Music Room in Mattapoisett.
She joined the Mattapoisett School District in 1990, serving as a kindergarten teacher from 1990-1993 and a kindergarten and reading recovery teacher from 1993-1998. She was then principal of Old Hammondtown School from 1998-2008 and principal of Center School from 2008-2014. She has led both elementary schools since 2014.
“Principal Bowman is an extraordinary educator and leader. She has always been willing to share advice and wisdom, and has been a wonderful role model for our team of elementary administrators,” Rochester Memorial School Principal Derek Medeiros said.
Added Center School first grade teacher and Union Co-President Marissa Hughes, “Principal Bowman has always shown the highest level of support for teachers, students and families, and a commitment to ensuring a positive and welcoming learning environment for everyone.”
Principal Bowman will officially retire on June 30, 2022.
“Principal Bowman has been a wonderful partner and I have enjoyed working with her and learning from her,” said Old Hammondtown School/Center School Associate Principal Kevin Tavares. “She cares greatly for our students and educators, and she will be very much missed. I hope that she enjoys her well-deserved retirement.”
In light of her retirement, the Old Rochester Regional School District and MA Superintendency Union #55 will begin the search for a new principal and a screening committee will be established to participate in the initial round of interviews with candidates. Information regarding the search and opportunities for community participation will be shared as it becomes available.