BArT Board Announces Executive Director

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Igoe will continue his leadership at BArT after an international search.
ADAMS, Mass. — Berkshire Arts and Technology (BArT) Charter Public School's Board of Trustees announced the appointment of Jonathan Igoe as BArT's next Executive Director. 
 
His appointment follows a recommendation from the Executive Director Search Committee and a unanimous vote by the Board of Trustees. 
 
Igoe will continue his leadership at BArT after an international search. Igoe came to the Berkshires to serve as Executive Director of the Williamstown Youth Center in 2003. He then worked at Overland, an adventure travel program for students, for 14 years as Director and Managing Director, overseeing leader recruitment and training, risk management, and communications. 
 
Igoe earned a Bachelor's degree in History from Yale University and a Master's in Education from MCLA. He has taught history and math in public and private schools in New England. He loves spending time exploring the outdoors with his wife and children.
 
"As a board member, it has been a privilege to work with Jonathan over the past several years," said Tom Bernard, chair of the BArT Board of Trustees. "My appreciation, confidence, and trust in him have only increased during my time as chair. He is a dedicated educator and thoughtful leader who is committed to continuous improvement for himself and most especially for the students, staff, faculty, families, and partners who make up the BArT community. Jonathan blends this inclusive approach to leadership with an impressive record of accomplishments that includes leading a successful charter renewal process; engaging the school community to develop and draft the school's 2025-2030 strategic plan; appointing dynamic new staff; and securing funding to support civics education, STEM equipment, restorative practices, student supports, and other strategic initiatives. The Board of Trustees looks forward to our continued and productive partnership with Jonathan as he steps fully into the role of Executive Director of BArT."
 
Bernard expressed gratitude for the work done by the search committee: Gina Puc, Trustee (Chair of the Executive Director Search Committee); George Ambriz, Trustee; Alison Bost, Trustee (Vice Chair of the Board); Kelli Kozak, Trustee (and past BART parent); Tim Herrmann, Teacher-Mathematics; Stephanie Maselli, Director of Counseling Services, in collaboration with search consultants from Carney Sandoe and Associates, John Faubert Heather Flewelling. 
 
Countless hours were spent connecting with potential candidates and then selecting six semifinalists, then three finalists from a robust pool.
 
Igoe will hit the ground running and build upon the strong foundation of the current BArT strategic plan to lead the school in its next exciting chapter.
 
"I am honored to lead BArT Charter Public School into its next chapter. I am grateful to the Board and the search committee for their dedication throughout this process and for their trust in me as the leader of this school. My vision is to ensure we remain an outstanding option for families. BART is a school of choice for families where all students can gain the skills and knowledge necessary for success in college. I am thrilled to continue this work," said Igoe.

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Cheshire Hires Adams Officer as New Police Chief

By Sabrina DammsiBerkshires Staff

Matthew Wright shakes hands with board members and Town Administrator Jennifer Morse on Friday after being offered the post. 
CHESHIRE, Mass. — Adams Police Sgt. Matthew Wright has been tapped as Cheshire's next police chief. 
 
The four present board members unanimously voted to hire him after an interview on Friday afternoon held during a special Selectmen's meeting. 
 
Wright was the only finalist for a police chief search that lasted several months. The only public who attended, other than iBerkshires, was interim Police Chief Timothy Garner and Wright's wife. 
 
The board will meet in executive session with Wright for contract negotiations then set an open session to establish a start date. 
 
Board member Scott McWhirt recused himself from the interview as he had worked with Wright in the Adams Police Department prior to his retirement in 2016.
 
Wright highlighted his deep roots in Cheshire, where he was born and raised, being a Hoosac Valley High School graduate and earning an associate degree in criminal justice from Berkshire Community College and later a bachelor's from Westfield State University.
 
Now, he is raising his own family in town, following in his father's footsteps by giving back to the community by being a volunteer coach and participates in local festivities.
 
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