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Community and school staff urge Malden School Committee to reconsider non-renewal of principal
Summary
Dozens of students, teachers, parents and community members told the Malden School Committee on Dec. 8 that removing Malden High School Principal Christopher Mastrangelo without explanation undermines trust; speakers asked for a one-year extension to allow for a dignified retirement and a thoughtful leadership transition.
Dozens of students, teachers, parents and community leaders urged the Malden School Committee on Dec. 8 to reverse its decision not to renew Malden High School Principal Christopher Mastrangelo’s contract, saying the move was abrupt and undermines trust in school leadership.
Thomas Conti, a Malden High School graduate and community youth leader, said the non-renewal was inconsistent with district values of inclusion and collaboration and warned it would damage trust among students and future leaders. Student Julius Scott said continuity in leadership is “critical during a period of significant policy and state-level changes” and urged the committee to consider student voices when making leadership decisions.
Several educators echoed that concern. Chris Giordano, a math teacher and department leader at Malden High School, described disappointment with the lack of explanation around the decision and said it risks signaling instability to current and prospective staff. Social studies teacher Rick Tivnan presented a petition he said contains more than 700 signatures and asked the committee to grant Mastrangelo a one-year extension so he may retire with dignity and allow for a thoughtful transition.
Multiple students described Mastrangelo as a visible, supportive presence. Juninho Victor, a Malden High student, quoted the principal’s message to students — “start here, finish anywhere” — and asked that he be allowed to complete the 2026–2027 school year. Student speakers described recent walkouts and broad student engagement on the issue.
Those opposing the non-renewal stressed transparency. Teacher Rebecca Griffith Allen, vice president of the Malden Education Association, and others said the decision lacked a public explanation and requested that the committee re-engage with staff, families and students to allow for a more transparent leadership search and transition.
No representative from the Administration offered a reversal or a formal response to requests for extension during the public comment period. The committee did not make a public decision on the matter during the meeting and proceeded with other agenda items.
The public comment period concluded before the committee took up the consent agenda and subsequent business. Community members said they will continue advocacy outside the meeting and asked the committee to provide a clear public account of its process and next steps.
