3 Finalists For Hemenway Elementary Principal

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FRAMINGHAM – The Framingham Public Schools District announced this afternoon, April 11, three finalists for the principal position at Hemenway Elementary School.

Staff and community members are now invited to ‘Meet the Candidates’ at a virtual forum taking place tomorrow, April 12, 2022.

• Phanenca Babio is currently the Principal of the Putnam Avenue Upper School in Cambridge, MA. In addition, she was an Assistant Principal and an Inclusive Instruction Specialist at the Kennedy-Longfellow School in Cambridge, MA. Ms. Babio received her Bachelor of Arts in School Psychology from the University of Massachusetts, Boston. She also holds a Masters Degree from Wheelock College in Special Education with a specialization in Moderate Disabilities as well as a Ph.D. in Urban Education, Leadership, and Policy Studies from the University of Massachusetts, Boston.

• Marybeth O’Brien is currently a Principal at Gilmore Elementary School in Brockton Public Schools. Prior to her current role, Ms. O’Brien held the Principal and Assistant Principal roles at Huntington and Raymond Elementary Schools in Brockton. Having received a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Political Philosophy from Northeastern University, she has a Masters Degree from Simmons University in Urban Education and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Educational Leadership and Administration from American International College. Ms. O’Brien is currently enrolled in the Boston College Doctoral Program for Educational Leadership.

• Saundra Watson is currently the Assistant Principal at Angier Elementary School in Newton Public Schools. In addition, she was a Special Education Coordinator, Team Chair, and Special Educator in Needham Public Schools as well as the Assistant Principal of Needham’s Walker School. Having received a Bachelor of Science from Lesley University, she also has a Masters Degrees from Wheelock College in Special Education with a specialization in Moderate Disabilities and a Masters from Simmons University in Language and Literature. 

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The “Meet the Candidates” Forum for Staff and Community Members will take place virtually on Zoom on Tuesday, April 12, 5:50 to 8 p.m.

Community Members are encouraged to attend the webinar (Passcode: 651927); there will be live interpretation in Spanish and Portuguese. Attendees will be able to hear from the candidates, ask them questions, and will then be presented with a survey (that will be available in English, Spanish, and Portuguese) to offer feedback to the Superintendent of Schools regarding each candidate.

A Screening Committee established the key characteristics for the Principal of Hemenway Elementary School:

1. Has experience leading a diverse community, along with knowledge of all types of learners, including students on IEPs, English language learners, gifted and talented students, and students of all socio-economic levels to a high level of growth and achievement. 
2. Has a vision for the school and is able to clearly communicate it to all stakeholders; Is able to analyze data to establish attainable goals, action plan, utilize resources, problem-solve, and follow through. 
3. Prioritizes relationship building and establishing trust with students, staff, parents, the community, and the district in order to improve teaching and learning.
4. Inspires and empowers by seeing the possibilities of students and staff. Understands and uplifts each community member’s unique experience and perspective, being mindful of access, equity, race, gender, etc., and creates a community of inclusion, caring, and belonging.
5. Is committed and dedicated to being a building leader who is present (physically and emotionally), collaborative, open-minded, self-aware, reflective, leads by example, and advocates for children.
6. Understands the broad range of child development and prioritizes the social-emotional, behavioral, and academic needs of students using a trauma-sensitive approach.
7. Leverages technology and multi-modal, two-way communication to ensure transparency, clear expectations, and understanding and support throughout the district and school community.

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