Chat With a Chairman: Rick Kraft

Rick Kraft was selected by the School Committee for the chairmanship, a position formerly held by Larry Beaupre, who did not seek re-election.

Questions for Chairman Kraft:


What will your priorities be?

• Facilitating smooth transitions and productive working relationships as our new Interim Superintendent and High School Principal start their tenures, our current Superintendent moves to responsibility for special projects, and two new members of the School Committee establish themselves, so our District will continue to improve in educating all of our children.  
• Providing our administrators and teachers the support, and space, they need to accomplish the goals the School Committee establishes for the District.  
• Fostering a sense of shared purpose among all constituencies of the schools, so everyone’s talents and abilities can be devoted to educating our children and not unnecessary distractions.
• Identifying the person to best lead our District as Superintendent after our current period of transition.
  
  
  

What do you think your leadership style will be, more of a take charge chairman or more of a laid back chairman?

I am more of a facilitator and mediator than one who imposes my will on others.  In most cases, drawing on multiple perspectives produces a better result than relying on any one person’s viewpoint.  I build consensus and look for common ground to bring people together.  I lead by empowering others and providing direction, not mandating how they must accomplish their goal.  I want people to take action because they understand it’s the right thing to do, not because they are forced into it.  This approach may appear laid back, but usually requires being more engaged than would simply dictating what to do.


Based on what you have seen or experienced as a chairman in the past, what’s the toughest part of the job?

 Maintaining a positive, productive learning environment when people who don’t agree with, or don’t understand, some aspect of the schools resort to rumor, innuendo or unfounded anonymous criticism, rather than open dissent or questioning.  Open debate and constructive criticism lead to positive change and help everyone improve.  Anonymously undercutting the system or its people is just destructive, and hurts our students either directly or indirectly.