Scituate Appoints Dr. Thomas Raab as Interim Superintendent Following Burkhead's Retirement
SCITUATE - September 16 - The Scituate School Committee unanimously voted to appoint Director of Business and Finance Dr. Thomas Raab as interim superintendent Monday evening, following the retirement of Superintendent Bill Burkhead, who is also taking planned medical leave for surgery.
The Full Story
The committee opened the September 16 meeting by reading a statement thanking Superintendent Burkhead for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and his work on capital and operational improvements. Committee Chair Nicole Brandolini, emphasized that Burkhead's retirement coincides with planned medical leave, allowing for what they described as "a smooth leadership transition."
The committee had two highly qualified internal candidates to consider: Ryan Lynch, the Assistant Superintendent, and Tom Raab, the Director of Business and Finance. Committee member Maria Fenwick opened the discussion by acknowledging both candidates' qualifications and noting the relatively short timeline for the interim role, as the formal hiring process for a permanent superintendent typically begins in winter.
The decision ultimately came down to operational continuity and which role could more easily be backfilled during the interim period. Fenwick explained her reasoning: "It feels to me as though Tom is a little bit more replaceable in that... bringing in somebody on a short term... to do the budget and finance stuff is a little bit more clear cut than bringing in somebody who is going to step into the work Ryan has just started, which is a lot of the curriculum work."
Committee members expressed concern about disrupting the curriculum and instruction work that Lynch has been leading, which they described as "fragile" and foundational to the district's academic progress. The committee noted that Lynch has been working intensively with department chairs and principals on curriculum development that began last year.
Brandolini praised Raab’s management of the school building project, calling him "exemplary" in that role. "In that project is at such a crucial point right now... when we've needed leadership there, he's really been someone who's been able to direct the district in a very clear and concise way," shesaid, noting Raab's construction project experience and hands-on work at Hatherly Elementary.
The committee also considered the overlap between Raab's current responsibilities and superintendent duties, with one member suggesting "Tom has the better ability to be able to manage two roles." The discussion touched on whether the Interim Superintendent would maintain their existing duties or focus solely on the superintendent role.
Before the vote, Brandolini noted that an absent committee member had also supported the appointment and agreed with the points made during discussion. The motion to appoint Raab as Interim Superintendent passed unanimously.
The committee then moved into executive session to discuss compensation for the interim position, citing the need for strategy sessions regarding non-union personnel negotiations.
Why It Matters
This appointment ensures continuity in district leadership during a critical period that includes ongoing construction at Hatherly Elementary, curriculum implementation work, and the launch of new district technology systems. Parents and staff can expect minimal disruption to daily operations as Raab transitions from his business and finance role to overseeing the entire district through the end of the fiscal year.
Meeting Minutes
Key Motions & Votes
Motion: Approve Thomas Raab as Interim Superintendent. Outcome: Approved. Vote: Unanimous. (Timestamp: 13:45)
Motion: Enter executive session for reason number two - to conduct strategy session in preparation for negotiations for non-union personnel. Outcome: Approved. Vote: Unanimous. (Timestamp: 14:52)
What's Next
The interim superintendent appointment takes effect September 17th and runs through June 30th. The committee will begin the formal search process for a permanent superintendent in the coming months, with the goal of having a new contract start July 1st. The committee also noted they may revisit and refine the district's strategic plan, which is nearing the end of its current cycle.