Submitted by RSD#17 BOE.
The Regional School District #17 Board of Education has begun a search for a new Superintendent of Haddam and Killingworth schools after the resignation of Dr. Holly Hageman.
Board Chair, Suzanne Sack, says, “the District is stable at its core, largely due to Holly’s leadership, and poised to plan for and execute an exciting future. As much as we wish for Holly to be a part of that future, we are grateful for her extraordinary dedication to the District.”
Over the past few years, RSD #17 put into place a strong leadership team, launched a new Intermediate School, advanced to Chromebooks for all students, enhanced communication and trust with staff and the community and advanced a multitude of operational projects and building renovations. Most importantly, RSD #17 was one of the school districts in Connecticut that remained open, safely operating school in-person this year during the pandemic.
The Board has already begun the search process by appointing itself as a “Committee of the Whole.” It will consider hiring an Interim Superintendent, using a search firm, and communicating its plans with the community and staff. Sack says, “the Board of Education will act judiciously and move expeditiously in finding a talented, caring, and inspirational Superintendent of Schools for RSD17.”
Dr. Hageman served the District first as a science teacher, returned to the District as Assistant Superintendent, and then was promoted to RSD17 Superintendent of Schools. Sack observes that, “at each level, she served with distinction and dedicated herself to putting student interests first and foremost.” Her resignation is effective June 30, 2021.
On May 7th, Sack announced “Holly has accepted a position as a part-time Superintendent of Schools, working a schedule that will allow her to have more time with her family. This was a deeply personal decision for her.” Dr. Hageman disclosed, “my decision to leave is wholly centered upon my need and desire to devote more time to my family – my young teenage sons, my husband, as well as my aging parents.”
Sack adds, “in the meantime, we thank our staff and community for their partnership and support and trust that our team of dedicated professionals will continue to keep our students at the forefront of their care and work and we will continue to support them in any way possible.”
