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Date: 2/19/2020
WEST SPRINGFIELD – With the exit of Superintendent Michael Richard, the West Springfield School Committee unanimously selected Curriculum Director Tim Connor to become the interim superintendent, effective Feb. 24.
“It’s quite the honor to be asked to do this,” said Connor. He said he was approached about the position because he already holds the certification to be a superintendent.
Connor has worked in the district for five years and was previously in the Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District for 16 years. Connor grew up and taught in West Springfield and was formerly the vice principal at West Springfield High School.
“It’s certainly much more responsibility for the entire district,” Connor said, but noted the biggest difference between his role as curriculum director and interim superintendent will be a life-work balance. He said there will be a lot more nights, but his wife and daughter are supportive of the move.
Connor is considering putting his name in for the permanent position. He said, “I’m still giving a lot of thought to it.” His job as interim superintendent ends June 30.
Mayor Will Reichelt announced that the district has set up a schedule for the selection of a permanent superintendent, which began when the job was officially posted on Feb. 14. Listening sessions will be conducted to allow the public to voice their concerns and let the school committee know what qualities the next superintendent should have. Residents can also email supersearch@wsps.org to share their thoughts on the topic.
A screening committee will select applicants between March 16 and March 20, with interviews to follow. The school committee will vote on the position after the interview wrap up on March 27.
“During the interim position, the goal is to continue the work that we’ve set out for ourselves, continuing to support our families and students,” Connor said.