Waterbury Public Schools hosts candidate forum for next superintendent selection

The Waterbury Board of Education held a candidate forum on April 28, 2025, to discuss the search for the next superintendent of Waterbury Public Schools. The event, facilitated by James Guerra of JG Consulting, featured three candidates: Dr. Davion Lewis, Dr. Paul Schwartz, and Dr. John White. Each candidate presented their backgrounds and visions for the district, responding to questions sourced from community members.

Dr. Lewis, currently the assistant superintendent of student services in South Bend, Indiana, emphasized his diverse educational experience and commitment to equity. He highlighted the challenges faced by Waterbury, including poverty and unemployment, and expressed a desire to leverage education as a means to uplift the community. He stated, "Education is the great equalizer," and called for a bold vision to unite stakeholders in improving the district.

Dr. Schwartz, who has served in various roles within Waterbury Public Schools for over a decade, shared his optimism for the district's potential. He discussed the importance of addressing core issues rather than pursuing initiatives that do not meet the community's needs. Schwartz underscored the necessity of enhancing preschool education and multilingual services to better prepare students for success.

Dr. White, a former principal and assistant superintendent, spoke about his belief in the transformative power of education. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among the board, teachers, and families to create a supportive environment for students. White expressed his commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of families in Waterbury.

The forum allowed candidates to articulate their priorities and visions for the district, with a focus on improving educational outcomes and fostering community engagement. The discussions underscored the critical role of leadership in navigating the challenges facing Waterbury Public Schools. The board will now consider the candidates' responses as they move forward in the selection process for the new superintendent.