New Bedford Locks In School Leadership Through 2031

NEW BEDFORD (WBSM) — New Bedford Public Schools will continue under its current leadership for another five years, as the School Committee recently voted to approve multi-year contract extensions for both the superintendent and the deputy superintendent.

New Bedford School Committee Extends Leadership Contracts

Both Superintendent Andrew O’Leary and Deputy Superintendent Darcie Aungst had their contracts extended through 2031, according to a New Bedford Public Schools release.

How Andrew O’Leary Became Superintendent

O’Leary was named Interim Superintendent in April 2023 following the departure of Thomas Anderson and was appointed permanently in January 2024. At the same time, Aungst was named Deputy Superintendent.

“Superintendent O’Leary and Deputy Superintendent Aungst have established clear expectations for academic performance and have heightened accountability,” Mayor Jon Mitchell said. “New Bedford Public Schools are on a pathway toward sustained improvement under their leadership.”

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In the release, School Committee Vice Chair Melissa Costa praised O’Leary and Aungst for “their proven commitment to academic growth, equity, and opportunity. I look forward to continuing to work alongside them as we move our city’s youth and future forward.”

Academic Gains and Reduced Absenteeism

Over the past two years, the two have seen success increasing academic performance, reducing chronic absenteeism, and completing initiatives such as the NBPS Central Kitchen.

READ MORE: New Bedford Public Schools Open Central Kitchen

They have followed their Strategic Plan for NBPS 2025-2030, which focuses on four core principles: ignite learning, empower educators, unite families and community, and navigate the future.

New Bedford School Leaders React to Contract Extensions

“I am very appreciative of the School Committee’s support and confident that, together, we’ll work as hard as possible to match the promise of our city’s young people – this school year and beyond,” O’Leary said.

“It is a tremendous honor to continue serving New Bedford Public Schools as Deputy Superintendent,” Aungst said. “I’m very grateful for the School Committee’s confidence and for the opportunity to keep working alongside our staff, leaders, and families in service of our incredible students.”