Organization Overview
Pawtucket School Department is a prominent educational authority located at _286 Main St, Pawtucket, RI 02860_. The department emphasizes equitable education for all students with a commitment embodied in its slogan, _“Together: Every Student, Every Day.”_ Operating hours are _Monday to Friday, 8:00am to 4:00pm_, with contact available at _(401) 729-6300_.
Key Resources and Initiatives
- Website: The official [website](https://www.psdri.net/) provides resources such as staff quicklinks, guides for parents, human resources information, district insights, and student transportation details.
- STEM Focus: Initiatives like the _Project Lead the Way Showcase_ highlight the department’s commitment to enhancing K-12 STEM education through collaborative and problem-solving student activities.
Leadership
Randy A. Buck
_Randy Buck_ serves as the Interim Superintendent, with significant experience in urban school leadership from his tenure in the Allentown School District. His strategic focus includes culturally responsive practices and data-driven strategies to drive educational equity. Holding certifications from _Harvard University_ and the _University of South Florida Muma College of Business_, Buck spearheads initiatives to bolster school culture and elevate student expectations.
Dr. Mark Andrade
As the Chief of Operations, _Dr. Mark Andrade_ has over 28 years in urban public education, specializing in strategic leadership. His expertise lies in enhancing student outcomes through research-based practices. Andrade holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.
Hersh Cristino
Leading as the Chief Information and Innovations Officer, _Hersh Cristino_ focuses on instructional technology integration to advance educational methodologies. His career began as a middle school science teacher, and he now champions tech-based instructional support throughout the district.
Dale McGhee
_Dale McGhee_, the Chief Financial Officer, manages budget and fiscal oversight to maintain the district’s financial health, aligning resources to improve educational facilities and experiences.
Lee Rabbit
With over 35 years of educational experience, _Lee Rabbit_, the Assistant Superintendent, is committed to improving educational outcomes through engagement in national educational committees.
Dr. Lahna Tate
As the Chief of Assessment, Accountability, and Research, _Dr. Lahna Tate_ leverages her Doctorate in Organizational Leadership to drive data-informed decision-making in curriculum and assessment programs.
Organizational Structure
The Pawtucket School Department employs a robust team led by Acting Superintendent _Randy A. Buck_. The staff includes 164 total employees, with roles such as 4 VP-level executives, 12 directors, and 6 managers. _John Haidemenos_ serves as principal, while _Robin Sweezy_ is the assistant principal, both integral to the department's administration.
Community and Collaborative Outreach
The department fosters community engagement by offering family resources and maintaining transparency in district operations. The _Pawtucket School Committee_ ensures community representation through elected two-year terms, supporting academic achievement and personal student growth.
Educational and Technical Programs
The department is noted for its extensive Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, which equip students with academic and practical skills for future success. These programs reflect the department’s holistic educational approach.
Competitor Profiling
The Pawtucket School Department competes with districts like the West Windsor-Plainsboro Regional School District and Fullerton School District, both known for high-performing schools and innovative programs.
Recent Challenges and Performance
Challenges include proficiency score declines, prompting a strategic improvement plan unveiled in November 2024, despite being criticized for low state accountability results. Emphasizing the need for targeted interventions, the department aims to improve student performance and overall school ratings.
Financial and Technological Infrastructure
Supported by substantial revenue between $501 million and $1 billion, and employing between 1,001 and 5,000 individuals, the department maintains expansive educational programs. It utilizes technology such as Microsoft Office for scheduling, financial management, and collaboration to ensure efficient operations.
