SHREWSBURY – Superintendent Joe Sawyer has received an “exemplary” performance review from the School Committee.
On April 26, the School Committee unanimously approved a composite performance evaluation of Sawyer that was prepared by Chair Lynsey Heffernan. The report included feedback from all committee members.
The report commended Sawyer’s performance in several areas. The committee said Sawyer had made “significant progress” in dealing with learning loss from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“[Dr. Sawyer has collaborated] with staff, parents, students, and the community to better understand the effects of the pandemic on student learning and to identify gaps,” Heffernan said. “Dr. Sawyer’s reports are thorough, data-driven and provide a comprehensive view of the progress towards student performance.”
Heffernan also noted how Sawyer had “exceeded” the committee’s expectations regarding the student health and well-being goal, mentioning how Sawyer had worked diligently to improve students’ sleep health.
The School Committee said that Sawyer’s management of the school district is “exemplary.”
“The management of a school district as large as Shrewsbury is complex, [and] Dr. Sawyer leads with a firm understanding of our schools’ financial guardrails while balancing the operational needs of our district in a collaborative fashion,” Heffernan said.
“The superintendent’s response to a variety of challenges or crises has instilled confidence in our schools throughout the community,” she continued.
Sawyer received “exemplary” grades for his community engagement and demonstrated interest in receiving public feedback and involving town members in decisions. Sawyer was also commended for his professionalism.
“[Dr. Sawyer’s] vision and his leadership are assets to the town,” Heffernan said.
Additionally, on April 25, the Select Board unanimously voted to reappoint Town Manage Kevin Mizikar to a three-year term set to expire on June 30, 2026.
