Supt. of Schools Adams scores high on one-year evaluation

June 27, 2023 By Carol Britton Meyer

Supt. of Schools Margaret Adams was rated “proficient” overall during an evaluation this week by the School Committee following her first year on the job.

“This is considered to be an excellent rating based on the Massachusetts Department of Elementary & Secondary Education framework,” Chair Nes Correnti told the Hingham Anchor after the meeting. “It’s especially noteworthy given that Dr. Adams is a first-year superintendent and came into a district with much to be done in the first year.”

During Monday’s meeting, Correnti said that based on Committee members’ feedback, “It’s evident that Dr. Adams is regarded as an intelligent, thoughtful, and effective leader who prioritizes the needs of students. She has displayed several attributes of a successful leader, including being a diligent worker, demonstrating commitment to the staff and community, and introducing improved processes and communication within the Hingham Public Schools system.”

Among Adams’ notable achievements, Correnti said, is her ability to assemble a strong Central Office team “that has provided stable leadership during challenging times — such as the aftermath of the global pandemic and previous leadership changes. She has also emphasized the importance of innovation and data-driven approaches to education, benefitting both students and staff.”

In addition, Adams has actively sought feedback from the community, educators, and students through surveys, focus groups, and presentations to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the district’s needs. “Her regular updates, such as weekly emails and improved communication from principals to each school, have been appreciated by stakeholders and have helped keep everyone informed,” according to Correnti.

It was also noted that Adams’ entry process into her role as superintendent was commendable, considering the challenges the district was facing. “Dr. Adams successfully navigated through obstacles such as a special town meeting for a building project, working with a new leadership team, and addressing substantial budget needs that resulted in a tax override. These achievements demonstrate her exemplary leadership skills,” Correnti said.

Furthermore, “Dr. Adams has shown proficiency in leadership by maintaining momentum, promoting professional development, fostering relationships with stakeholders, and addressing areas in need of improvement identified through the HPS Strategic Plan,” Correnti continued. “Her proactive approach, commitment to equity, and focus on collaboration set a positive path for the continued progress of the district.”

Overall, the evaluation highlights Adams’ “remarkable first year as superintendent” and the positive impact she has made on the HPS system. “Her leadership skills, dedication to the community, and ability to overcome challenges make her a valuable asset to the district,” Correnti said.

Adams scored high in the areas of professional practice, student learning, district improvement, instructional leadership, management and operations, family and community engagement, and professional culture, earning her an overall “proficient” rating.

Following her evaluation, Adams thanked members of the HPS leadership team, who she said are “all committed and who overcame quite a few challenges this year with grace and a lot of hard work”; educators who welcomed her into their classrooms; students with “big smiles”; and the warm welcome she received from members of the community.

“I have been successful due to the success of others, and I’m grateful for their hard work,” she said. “We’ve made great strides.”