School committee approves appointment of Christine Panarisi as executive director of student services

The committee voted March 10 to approve the appointment of Dr. Christine Panarisi as the district’s new executive director of student services, with a permanent appointment effective July 1.

Superintendent Katie (Superintendent) told the committee that a screening committee — which included family representatives, administrators, general and special educators — recommended Dr. Panarisi after an interview process and a site visit. The superintendent said Dr. Panarisi met with staff, administrators and a group of high‑school students during the visit and that attendees described the meetings as productive. Several staff who had previously been taught by Dr. Panarisi spoke positively of her background.

Dr. Panarisi currently serves as director of student services for Silver Lake Regional School District and formerly held leadership roles in Boston, Fall River and other districts. She holds a doctorate in education from Boston College and other degrees in special education and psychology. The committee moved and approved a motion to appoint and to authorize contract terms; the room voted in favor by voice vote.

Committee members said they appreciated interim director Dr. Cataldo’s leadership during the search and that the new director will undertake onboarding and community‑outreach meetings; administration said it will schedule additional public sessions (coffee talks and other opportunities) so constituents who were unable to join a recent Zoom Q&A (which had technical problems) can meet the new director before July.