The Natick Public School district officially has a new permanent Superintendent! After a seven-month process, involving feedback and engagement from the Natick community, the School Committee voted to enter into contract negotiations with Dr. Melissa Spash, currently Deputy Superintendent of Lawrence Public Schools. At our February 5th meeting, the School Committee approved Dr. Spash’s contract. We are thrilled to welcome her to Natick!
Dr. Melissa Spash brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to educational excellence and equity. With a career spanning various roles including teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and deputy superintendent, Dr. Spash has demonstrated her dedication to student success at all levels. Her core values of equity, collaboration, data-based decision making, and an unwavering focus on student achievement align closely with our community's priorities.
In her most recent role as Deputy Superintendent of Lawrence Public Schools, Dr. Spash played a pivotal role in developing strategic plans and goals for the district; overseeing academic programs; and collaborating with district leadership to ensure financial transparency and resource allocation. She also showcased her commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, as she led initiatives to promote equitable access to education and implemented data-driven strategies to support student learning.
Prior to her district-level leadership roles, Dr. Spash served as a principal at both high school and middle school levels, where she spearheaded efforts to improve academic outcomes, close opportunity gaps, and create inclusive learning environments. Her experience as a mathematics teacher further underscores her passion for ensuring all students have access to high-quality education.
Dr. Spash holds a bachelor of business administration degree in Finance from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst; a master’s degree in Education Policy and Management from Harvard Graduate School of Education; and a Doctorate of Education from Northeastern University, where her dissertation focused on school autonomy and the potential of principal networks for increasing capacity and effectiveness.
“I look forward to embracing the Natick superintendency with enthusiasm and dedication and to collaborating with families, students, educators, and administrators to continue to grow and foster an environment where innovation, inclusivity, and student success are at the forefront of our collective vision,” Dr. Spash said.
Dr. Spash will assume the role of Superintendent of Natick Public Schools on July 1, 2024.
“Together, let us embark on a journey of growth, learning, and endless possibilities,” she said.
The School Committee wishes to thank everyone who volunteered their time and provided feedback throughout this process. Your engagement was critical to making the best decision for Natick Public Schools and our community. If you have any questions, please contact the School Committee at [email protected].