Superintendent Michael S. Nelson announces that Old Hammondtown School Principal Kevin Tavares will retire at the conclusion of the 2023-2024 school year.
Principal Tavares has served as the Old Hammondtown Principal since July 2022. He served as Associate Principal of the Old Hammondtown and Center Schools since July 2014.
“Principal Tavares’ superpower is his ability to connect with children on their level — which he always makes time to do,” Superintendent Nelson said. “He has the special ability to build relationships with his students by getting to know their personalities, their interests, and what they care about by truly listening to their viewpoints and perspectives.”
Tavares began as a classroom teacher at Old Hammondtown School in 1994, teaching in the fourth, fifth and sixth grades and as a science lab instructor from 1994 to 2014.
In his time with the Old Rochester Regional School District and MA Superintendency Union #55, Tavares has served on many committees, including curriculum and planning committees, interview and candidate search committees. He also served as the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) School Accreditation Chairman and Steering Committee Coordinator, among other positions.
“On behalf of the entire School Committee, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Principal Tavares on his well-deserved retirement announcement,” said Mattapoisett School Committee Chairperson Carly Lavin. “His dedication and commitment to our schools has left an indelible mark that will be remembered for generations to come. His tenure as an administrator in the Mattapoisett School District has been marked by unwavering dedication, tireless commitment, and an unending passion for education.”
She added, “Over the years, he has overseen the growth and development of countless young minds and has been a constant beacon of wisdom and guidance. He has nurtured an environment of growth and learning, while his selfless leadership has been a source of inspiration to the entire school community. While he will be greatly missed, his legacy will continue to shape the future of the Old Hammondtown School and the Mattapoisett School District long after he has retired. We thank him for all his service to the students and families of Mattapoisett.”
“For decades now, Kevin Tavares has been an integral part of what makes Old Hammondtown School a joyful place to teach and to learn,” said Sara Jacobsen, sixth grade teacher and Co-President of Mattapoisett Educators Association. “The school community is more connected and more successful because of his work as a teacher, union leader, and administrator. His impact will endure long after his retirement, but his warmth and commitment to our school are irreplaceable.”
“Mr. T. is a quiet leader who valued and appreciated the students, the staff and the community,” said Marissa Hughes, first grade teacher and Co-President of Mattapoisett Educators Association. “He has been an essential individual in the Mattapoisett Public Schools for many years, and will be greatly missed.”
The superintendent’s office will begin the search for a principal for the Old Hammondtown School. A search committee will be established to give input on the process and candidates. Information regarding the search and opportunities for community participation will be shared as it becomes available.