School committee appoints Dr. Lisa Gelalpis Tumi interim superintendent for 2026–27

The Methuen School Committee on April 13 voted to appoint acting superintendent Dr. Lisa Gelalpis Tumi to serve as interim superintendent for the 2026–27 school year.

The vote followed more than an hour of public discussion about timing, executive-session contract procedures and the need for leadership stability ahead of budget season. Member Donovan Grassi said the district needed speed: “I think it's time for this district to have a real sense of urgency.” Member Ken Willett moved to table the appointment until the next meeting, citing deference to the absent vice chair and a preference to avoid non-emergency agenda amendments; that motion failed.

Committee members who supported the appointment cited staffing needs and upcoming MCAS and budget work that, they said, require steady leadership. Several members clarified that the vote on the appointment is separate from any contract terms, which will be finalized after an executive-session negotiation with counsel present. Committee counsel advised that contract language would be discussed in executive session and then returned to open session as required.

The roll-call vote recorded in open session approved the appointment; members voting yes included Jonathan Grassi, Alejandro Baez, Member Keegan, Mr. Royce and Donovan Grassi; Member Willett voted no. Following the vote, the committee moved into executive session to discuss contract details and collective-bargaining strategy.

The appointment makes Dr. Gelalpis the district’s interim leader while the newly approved search firm, Zeal, prepares to begin a superintendent search. The committee also noted personnel decisions already made on an interim basis and said the interim appointment aims to provide operational stability during budget finalization and the spring testing period.