Retired superintendent Joe Sawyer briefs committee on statewide induction program

Joe Sawyer, a recently retired superintendent from Shrewsbury who now serves as an executive coach in the statewide induction program, told the committee the program offers content and coaching intended to support new superintendents during their first three years.

"This year, 34 out of the 35 new superintendents across the Commonwealth are taking part in the program," Sawyer said, outlining NSIP's structure of workshops, regional consultancy, and individual coaching (he said he provides 60 hours of direct coaching in year one). Sawyer described the program's core objectives—entry process, alignment with district strategy, execution and monitoring—and said he will observe meetings and provide feedback to support Menard's transition.

Sawyer said the program is statewide and coordinated with the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents; he told the committee he would remain available to observe cabinet meetings, walk classrooms with Menard, and advise on communications and community engagement.