Smithfield School Committee appoints Lisa Odumpelelo as superintendent

The Smithfield School Committee voted April 16 to appoint Lisa Odumpelelo as superintendent and approved her employment contract, the committee announced during its public meeting.

Chair described a multi‑stakeholder subcommittee that conducted initial interviews — including two school‑committee members, two principals, two parents and several union representatives — and said the full committee’s final interviews of five members produced a unanimous recommendation for Odumpelelo. Chair said Odumpelelo has served as interim superintendent and has “carried out the core responsibilities of superintendent,” overseeing curriculum, fiscal management, personnel, operations and community engagement, and praised her leadership during a “tricky time.”

A motion to appoint and approve the employment contract was made and seconded; the committee voted in favor and the Chair called the result unanimous. During the public meeting Odumpelelo responded to the appointment, saying it was “truly my honor” and expressing appreciation for the community’s trust.

The committee also thanked members of the subcommittee and staff who supported the hiring process, and noted a prior interim role and several administrative duties Odumpelelo has carried out since July 1. The Chair said the committee expects Odumpelelo to focus on strengthening systems, improving student outcomes and fostering integrity across the district.

Votes at a glance: motion to appoint the superintendent and approve the employment contract — motion made by a committee member, seconded, and approved with the ayes called by roll; the Chair characterized the decision as unanimous among members present.

The committee moved on to other business after the appointment vote.