Interim Superintendent

Dr. V. James Marini

I am very pleased to have started my work as Interim Superintendent in North Andover.  In the brief time that I have been here, I have had the opportunity to meet several members of the staff, members of the community, as well as town and school administrators.  It is evident from my discussions that there is much pride at being in North Andover and a deep sense of appreciation that the town voted to pass the override.  There is a strong sense of community and positive feelings of excitement for the coming school year. 

During my thirty-seven years of working in public education, I have had the opportunity to serve three districts in a number of different positions.  I began my career as a middle school mathematics teacher with a spirit of idealism and optimism that has guided me through my career and remains a driving force in my work today.  As a middle school assistant principal, then principal, in two school districts, I learned to appreciate the high energy, diverse interests, and wonderful sense of humor displayed by middle school students.  As principal of a high school, I had the opportunity to work closely with staff, students, and families on matters related to curriculum, social issues, and education reform and while very challenging to lead, it was always exciting.

Most recently I have been working as superintendent where I developed a system-wide perspective that enabled me to more clearly see how policy decisions directly impact teachers and students.  More important, being superintendent has affirmed my belief that central administration is there to serve the needs of the schools, and that communication and personal contact are critical to ensuring that the schools feel valued and supported. 

The core value of respecting human differences is at the heart of my work.  I believe this value is central to establishing a climate where all students feel safe and are free to learn and develop their strengths, skills, and talents.  North Andover is a school system where committed teachers and administrators give of themselves to enrich the lives of their students, where the focus is on teaching and learning, and where there is a culture of caring.  I am very happy to be here.

I have much to learn about the schools, the town, and the people who live and work here.  I am determined to spend my first few months meeting you by attending PTO meetings and learning about the schools and the community.  I am excited to be here and very much look forward to the beginning of school.

Sincerely,

V. James Marini