Matthew D’Andrea, an elementary school principal in Mattapoisett, has been named the new assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction for the Martha’s Vineyard Public Schools (MVPS). He accepted a 22-month appointment from superintendent of schools James Weiss late Monday afternoon.
Due to contract obligations at his current job as the principal of Old Hammondtown School, Mr. D’Andrea will start work with the MVPS in late October or early November, Mr. Weiss told The Times in a phone conversation Tuesday. He will fill a position left vacant by Laurie Halt, who resigned in July. Mr. Weiss said Mr. D’Andrea’s salary is still under negotiation and he has not signed a contract yet.
Mr. D’Andrea has a doctorate in policy and law from Northeastern University and a master’s degree in elementary education. He is state certified as a superintendent/assistant superintendent, principal/assistant principal, and teacher. His certification as a school business administrator is pending.
Mr. D’Andrea was one of five candidates selected for interviews and chosen as one of two semi-finalists by a search committee that included school business administrator Amy Tierney, principals, teachers, and school committee members.
Mr. Weiss said they wrapped up Mr. D’Andrea’s final interview last week and invited him to spend the day last Friday visiting Island schools, where he met with teachers, school committee members, teachers, and union representatives. Asked what made Mr. D’Andrea rise to the top, Mr. Weiss said, “I would say two things were really important. I think he brings strong interpersonal skills to the job, and he’s got some good experience in terms of working with curriculum and working with teachers.”
