MANCHESTER, NH — Two new principals have been hired by the school district to fill openings at Webster and Beech Street elementary schools.
Nicole Doherty will take over at Webster Elementary School, appointed by the Manchester School Board on May 28, 2019.
Doherty is a graduate of Plymouth State University with a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education and a Master’s Degree in Education. In addition, she holds a curriculum administrator certification and principal certification.
Doherty comes to Webster with 13 years of classroom teaching experience and 10 years of administrative experience as a curriculum coordinator. During her tenure with the Goffstown School District, she also served as substitute principal and co-principal. Teamwork and collaboration are an important part of Doherty’s leadership style. Working collaboratively with staff and honoring the integrity that emerges from open and authentic communication is her strength. Her commitment to student success, understanding how to support teachers, and willingness to build traditions of success were all illustrated throughout the application process.
“With a strong background in math, science, literacy and best practices in student achievement, Ms. Doherty brings a wealth of knowledge to Webster School,” said Co-Interim Superintendent, Jennifer Gillis.
“I am extremely excited to be joining the students, families, and staff at Webster School! I believe the heart of Webster School is focusing on what is best for all students. I am honored to be part of this dedicated and talented team,” Doherty said.
Katrina Esparza was selected to lead Beech Street School, effective July 1, 2019. The Board of School Committee approved Esparza for the position on May 28, 2019.
Esparza has been a resident of the Merrimack Valley all her life and graduated from Billerica High School. She holds a doctorate in education from Northeastern University in K-12 Educational Leadership. She also earned a master’s in education from Salem State University and her undergraduate degree at Fitchburg State University in English.
For the past seven years, Esparza has served as an Assistant Principal, most recently at Danvers High School. She began her career in education as a high school English teacher, a choice driven by her love of literacy. Esparza believes community and school relationships are a key to creating successful teachers and students. She knows that all students can achieve and grow, and all teachers can create safe environments for children to learn academics and social-emotional skills.
“I am excited to join the Beech Street School Community,” said Esparza. “Working with parents, students and staff, I am confident that we can build on the good work already underway and create new opportunities for our students.”
“We believe Ms. Esparza will be an excellent fit for Beech St. school,” said Co-Interim Superintendent Amy Allen. “We were particularly impressed by her many years of experience at an assistant principal and the excitement she has expressed at being part of the Beech Street community.”
