The Hopkinton School Committee voted unanimously Thursday to appoint Jessica Beatty as the district’s next director of student services, contingent on successful contract negotiations.

Superintendent Dr. Kavanaugh and interim leadership described a multi‑step hiring process that included resume screening, central‑office screening interviews, a subcommittee panel interview, and a public forum attended by parents, staff and community members. Three finalists participated in the public forum; committee members also met individually with finalists and submitted written feedback to the hiring team.

Dr. Kavanaugh said all three finalists would have served the district well but that Beatty’s experience and demonstrated readiness to lead the department stood out in the committee’s review. Committee members who participated in the screening and panel interviews described Beatty’s answers as thorough, focused and responsive during both the formal interview and the public forum.

Jamie moved to approve the appointment, Kyla seconded and the vote was unanimous. The appointment is contingent on successful contract negotiations with the district; the committee recorded no other conditions in the motion.

Committee materials and the superintendent’s remarks note that central office and building‑level teams will work together during the transition, and that the district will continue to involve stakeholders as the new director begins work.