School committee endorses Elizabeth Hassonin as district director of nursing

The North Andover School Committee on March 26 endorsed Elizabeth Hassonin as the district’s director of nursing, approving the superintendent’s recommendation during the consent portion of the meeting.

The committee’s search committee — Kristen Ando, Greg Landry, Lynn O’Neil and Michelle O’Leary — presented Hassonin as their choice after a competitive search. Committee members cited Hassonin’s clinical background and 14 years of experience providing direct care and leading health initiatives in North Andover Public Schools. Hassonin told the committee she has worked at all grade levels in the district and said she looks forward to mentoring staff and continuing district health programs.

“The superintendent and I brought her forward for your stamp of approval,” the committee chair said before a motion to endorse the recommendation was made and seconded. The motion was approved by voice vote; the chair announced the motion carried with all members voting yes.

Hassonin replaces Cheryl Barzak, who is retiring. Committee members invited Hassonin to report back after her first year so the board could hear what health services look like under new leadership.

The endorsement was not a formal personnel appointment vote requiring a separate hiring process; committee members characterized the action as the customary board endorsement of the superintendent’s candidate and noted the district will complete any remaining hiring steps.

Next steps: Committee members said they expect an announcement to the community and to invite Hassonin to a future meeting to report on the first year in the role.