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SPENCER/EAST BROOKFIELD – Mary LaFreniere, the new principal of David Prouty High School, said she is most impressed by the pride all stakeholders demonstrate and the “rich diversity of experiences,” available to students.
“I love the idea of being part of something that can really impact the lives of students in a positive way,” she said. “David Prouty HS has a very important place in the community and that kind of generational pride is something I am very much attracted to and would love to be a contributor toward seeing continue.”
A native of Newton, LaFreniere moved to Gardner when she was entering junior high and still lives there today with her husband Steven.
Her degree from Fitchburg State College is in geophysical sciences and education. She taught health and earth science for two years at Gardner High School and spent more than a decade teaching earth and space sciences at Quaboag Regional Middle/High School.
At Quaboag, LaFreniere held a temporary dean of students position during a time of multiple transitions. This short-term role led to her interest in helping rebuild structures and systems in a school.
“I became excited about the changes that I could be part of in a positive direction,” she recalled.
By the end of that first summer, she obtained her administrative licenses and went on to serve as assistant principal for four years, followed by another four years as principal.
LaFreniere feels her many years in the classroom helps her understand the role of principal as a support for teachers.
“My job is to provide an environment where teachers have every possible tool needed in their efforts to reach their goal of providing the best for students,” LaFreniere said.
Most recently, she served as principal of Narragansett Middle School in Templeton, starting there in July 2018.
During the hiring process for DPHS, LaFreniere was struck by the presence of seven alumni on the interview panel.
“It says a lot that so many current faculty are alumni and there is an impressive contingent of long-term employees that have invested their careers here.”
The biggest challenges, she noted, are issues common to many school districts—including post-pandemic academics and social emotional needs that require ongoing investment.
LaFreniere said post-COVID, schools must provide “high-achieving levels of instruction” to best prepare students for the next stages of their lives.
“Those students at the most vulnerable stages of learning during COVID are now in middle and high school,” she said. “Our focus is on continuing to close any gaps that might still exist, strengthening skills and supporting students at all stages of achievement in pursuit of an education that today’s world needs them to have.”
Since coming on board this month, LaFreniere said her first impression is “There is a lot going on!”
She referred to the ongoing building project as “an absolute beehive of activity.” However, the new principal noted even with the bustle of activity near the office and learning spaces, she sees how excited personnel are while preparing for the coming year and welcoming students back.
Her short-term goals include getting to know the people at the school and “hitting the ground listening.”
“I believe my job is first and foremost creating a climate of trust and positivity that makes people want to come to school and work every day…That means strong, consistent support for faculty and staff as well as observable investment in the students’ experience,” LaFreniere said.
Her long-term priorities include the development of the Career Technical Education program and the Early College High School, which will be implemented following a recent official designation this summer.
“I am excited to be part of the continuation of the proud traditions that keep so many alumni on the faculty and active in the community while identifying, developing and implementing 21st century goals for the best possible education we can provide the students of Spencer/East Brookfield before launching them into their collective futures.”
LaFreniere added this is a “passionate proponent” of teachers and students and looks forward to working with families and other stakeholders to ensure DPHS students maximize and enjoy their high school experience.
