New Staff, Teachers for Schools

The first day of school, Wednesday, September 5, is just around the corner and several new staff members and teachers will greet students this fall.

According to Mayor Michael McGlynn, nearly thirty teachers retired and the hiring of new teachers has saved the city some money.  However, according to School Superintendent Roy Belson, to attract the best talent, Medford will have to pony up some extra cash for teachers in certain key areas, such as special education, science, math, and foreign language.

Belson said the hiring process is moving along well and the schools should be fully staffed come September 5.

Here’s a look at some of the major staff changes for the upcoming year:

– Tim Blake, Principal, Andrews Middle School.  Blake, a former teacher and coach, takes charge of the Andrews after serving as an assistant principal at Norton Middle School.  Watch a video interview with Blake.

– Paul D’Alleva, Assistant Principal, Andrews Middle School.  D’Alleva, a former gymnastics coach, taught chemistry and physics at Medford High before becoming Assistant Principal.  Watch a video interview with D’Alleva.

– Patricia Buker, McGlynn Elementary School Principal.  Buker served as the Assistant Principal and was selected to succeed Joe DiPersio when he retired last spring.

– Beverly Shea, Pupil Services Director.  Shea, former Assistant Special Education Director for Hudson, was hired last spring when Gail Bernstein stepped down.

– Bob Maloney, Athletic and Community School Director.  Maloney, a physical education teacher for fifteen years, takes over the position after it remained unfilled last year because of budget cuts.  Watch a video interview with Maloney.

– Bernadette Riccardelli, Social Studies Department Coordinator.  Riccardelli, a department veteran, will still teach part-time.

– Roger Young, part-time interim Business Manager.  Young is filling in after Jonathan Goldfield left for a position in Georgetown.  A permanent replacement is being selected.