Next Superintendent Announcement

April 17, 2020

Dear MSAD 60 Students, Parents, and Staff,

As you may be aware, I announced my retirement from the position of MSAD #60 Superintendent of Schools in late November 2019. Since that time, the district, led by Board Chair Astrida Schaefer, Board members Denise Mallett and Joanne Potter, and Assistant Superintendent Sue Austin have created, implemented, and resolved a superintendent search. Kudos to this group for countless hours of work, attention to detail, assembling a stellar plan, and opportunity for significant stakeholder inclusion!

Last night, the Board undertook the momentous task of approving a new superintendent. While I stayed out of the process and watched from the sidelines, I was so pleased to see that the Board of Directors showed strong support for the final candidate, Ms. Audra Beauvais. Does that name sound familiar to you? To many, it should! Ms. Beauvais has been principal of Hussey School and - until recently - Knowlton School in Berwick for more than two decades. She has also served the district and colleagues in a wide number of other capacities, such as: district literacy teamwork, stalwart Kindergarten JumpStart supporter, Data-Driven Dialogue coach, Facilities and Finance chairperson, Board /Teacher negotiations team member, Administrative Association President… the list is endless!

I believe Ms. Beauvais will be approachable, visible, and will keep our momentum on several key initiatives moving forward. Her firsthand knowledge of the district, coupled with her incredible work ethic, problem-solving skills, and ethical practice is unrivaled. Ms. Beauvais has displayed the ability to see the big picture, break it down into manageable targets, and operationalize those smaller pieces into a cohesive whole.

Do you believe in coincidences? Ms. Beauvais’ father was a highly respected New Hampshire district superintendent, and my father was a highly respected, long-term Cumberland County superintendent. I guess we both began training for superintendencies at very young ages!

It has been my honor to serve the Berwick, Lebanon, and North Berwick communities for the last eight years. As I close out a 40+ year career in public education, I am so thankful MSAD #60 was my last professional home. Ms. Beauvias will officially transition into the role on July 1, 2020. I know she already bleeds maroon and loves our district. Please join me in welcoming her to her new role as MSAD #60 Superintendent of Schools. Congratulations Audra!

Best wishes to all,

Steve Connolly