Dr. Joseph Erardi, Superintendent of Newtown Public Schools, was awarded the 2017 Connecticut’s Superintendent of the Year in late November. Erardi received the accolade at the convention of the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education and the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents in Groton.
Educators within the Newtown School System have admired Erardi since he took over as Superintendent two years ago; this award validates the tireless efforts he puts forth bettering our schools.
“Dr. Erardi is so deserving of this prestigious award, he is a fantastic superintendent for Newtown and has done so much for all of us,” NHS senior and Student Board of Education Representative Simran Chand said.
Erardi frequently involves himself in the activities of the elementary schools, Reed School, middle school and the high school alike. Many residents recognize the fact that he leaves his private cell phone number for all citizens, often during district announcements. Though it seems a simple act, it is a true display of his regard for all parents, students and members of the community.
“He listens to the concerns of both students and parents, consistently attends school events, runs his own TV channel, and even gives out his personal cell phone number to all Newtown residents,” Chand said.
Along with the immense responsibilities of Superintendent, Erardi hosts a television show on the local access cable channel called “Newtown Schools and You.” He invites guests onto his show- varying from young students, high schoolers, teachers and community members.
“Working with him on the Board of Ed these past few months, I have gotten the chance to see how much he has done for our schools. His number one priority is the overall betterment of Newtown schools, and it is admirable to see how invested he is in the district,” Chand stated.
Prior to Newtown, Erardi spent eight years as Superintendent in Southington. Throughout his career, fourteen years have been spent within Connecticut. In 2014, Erardi replaced Janet Robinson as Superintendent of Newtown. School and community leaders were thrilled with this selection, describing Erardi as a consummate educator and a man of integrity, compassion and collaboration. Erardi possesses a vested interest in the well-being of everyone; he has certainly made Newtown proud these last two years.
“Dr. Erardi is great guy; I have gotten to know him through the Board of Ed. meetings as well as through his participation in the Families United in Newtown events. He somehow creates a perfect balance of professionalism and approachability and is clearly dedicated to our entire community,” NHS Senior and Student Board of Ed Representative Dylan Lew said.
Families United in Newtown, a recreational organization dedicated to families with a special needs child, has notably been supported by Erardi.
“When I read that Dr. Erardi was named the Connecticut Superintendent of the year, I could not have been more excited. Dr. Erardi is a humble, thoughtful and intelligent administrator that has promoted Families United in Newtown and the National Honors Society students that support the recreational Newtown program with the utmost enthusiasm, attentiveness and kindness,” Founder of Families United in Newtown Linda Jones said. “All I can say – is “Thank You,” Dr. Erardi and you have my vote for the National Superintendent of the year!” Jones stated.
Jones’ comments encompass the feelings of Newtown residents across the board. Our community is extremely fortunate to have leader as invested, humble, and high-achieved as Erardi.
Image Courtesy of the News-Times