Hutchinson Elementary School Principal Dr. Trisha Nugent Fitzgerald was appointed by the school board Wednesday to be the district’s new executive director for human resources and leadership, replacing Dr. Steven Garcia, who is leaving the district for a similar post in another district, according to an email from Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Champ. The board’s vote came during a special meeting called to make the appointment.
Champ said the school system will begin an immediate search for a new principal to ensure “a smooth transition and start” for the school year.
In the job for eight years, Fitzgerald served as principal before and during the construction of the new Hutchison School next to the old building, as well as for the years of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Through this tumultuous time, she demonstrated professionalism, strong communications skills and was instrumental in orchestrating a successful bond campaign and throughout the planning and construction phase,” said Champ.
Fitzgerald has experience hiring and retaining staff, creating professional learning opportunities for teachers and conducting evaluations, said Champ. Fitzgerald completed her doctorate during her time in Pelham and earned a certification in human resources for K-12 administrators in 2022.
“I truly believe that as a district, we achieve greatness when working collectively, and so I am excited to continue my efforts of working together in such a supportive environment,” said Fitzgerald.
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