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Date: 8/17/2021
CHICOPEE – Chicopee native Michelle Pete is entering her first year as Principal of Fairview Veterans Memorial Elementary.
Pete was born and raised in Chicopee, graduating through the public school system before beginning her education career. She assumes the principal role after spending over 25 years in education. Pete began as a teacher in Litwin Elementary Schools, teaching third, fourth and fifth graders during her 16-year tenure. Her teaching experiences led her to pursue her master’s in educational leadership from Framingham State in 2011. “After being in the classroom, I wanted to make a difference in more than one classroom," said Pete.
Once she received her degree, Pete became the Vice Principal of Streiber Elementary for four years. She then became the Vice Principal of Bowe Elementary for two years. After briefly taking a job outside the district, the newly named principal finds herself returning to her hometown.
“I knew Chicopee is where I wanted to be and its where I want to retire," said Pete. Pete shared her firm belief in the community’s shared goals across the diverse populous. As principal of Fairview, Pete is entering the position at a time where schools are looking to transition back to semi-normal operations. The last year was dominated by continual changes as schools jockeyed between in-person, online and hybrid models during the prime of COVID-19.
During this crucial year, Pete said she intends to offer the utmost support for her school “I want to make sure that our students are supported socially, emotionally and academically,” said Pete. One way she said she hopes to accomplish that is with the Social Thinking program. Originated by famed pathologist and author Michelle Garcia Winner, this program would positively reward her young students as they evolve in their critical thinking skills. Pete also stressed the significance of supporting the teachers, who have inherited a new slate of responsibilities during COVID-19.
As education continues to grow, Pete said she welcomes the positive steps Chicopee is making. The district further established its use of technology last year, with every student now possessing a supplemental device for their educational experience, according to Pete. She also acknowledges the importance in offering equitable education for students rather than one conforming standard.
“[In the past] we really focused on equality. Now, we're looking at equity. Every child needs something a little different in order to be successful,” said Pete. She noted that education continues to become more differentiated, with intimate group settings giving children a better opportunity to learn at their own pace. Pete said she hopes these changes will continue Chicopee’s high educational standards.