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SUPERINTENDENT’S WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
SUPERINTENDENT’S WEEKLY NEWSLETTER September 11, 2026 Dear Colleagues, Students, Families, and Laconia Community: The 25th anniversary of September 11th took place today in Laconia, thanks to the wonderful work of the leaders of the City of Laconia. Most of us remember where we were that day when the attack on the United States took place. I was a classroom teacher and was in the library preparing for my classes. I recall the sacrifices of the first responders and the countless families whose lives were changed forever. This day remains a profound marker in our history—a time of deep sorrow, but also a powerful reminder of human resilience, compassion, and unity. In the face of unimaginable tragedy, people came together across differences to support one another, demonstrating the strength of our shared humanity. As we reflect, let us carry forward the spirit of unity and service that emerged from the grief, renewing our commitment to kindness, mutual respect, and community support in our daily lives. I am thankful to the leaders of Laconia for having Sachem Nation participate. On another note, over the next few weeks, I will be hosting virtual and in-person meetings with families. The announcement will be coming out on Monday, September 14th. I will also be holding school-level meetings for faculty and staff during work hours. More information to come. On Tuesday, September 8th, we had two presentations on selflessness as educators. I am honored to note that I have already observed this. Yet, student achievement must become the core of our discussions and priorities. We must and will do better. At the core of my day-to-day operations will be student outcomes, student attendance, and student discipline. This WILL require parent/guardian support and leadership. More to come. Have a great weekend! In Appreciation, Dr. B Contact Information: Dr. Joseph F. Baeta, jbaeta@laconiaschools.org ______________________________________________ Laconia School Board Meeting Tuesday, September 15, 2026 6:00 PM at the SAU 30 office, 39 Harvard Street ITEM #01 CALL TO ORDER Notice of Posting Pledge of Allegiance ITEM #02 APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA ITEM #03 APPROVAL OF MINUTES September 1, 2026 Regular Board Meeting September 1, 2026 Nonpublic Board Meeting ITEM# 04 PRESENTATION Elementary Report Card (Elementary School Principals) ITEM #05 GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT Citizens who wish to provide public comment shall identify themselves clearly for the records and must give their name, address, and the group, if any, that is represented. Any individual desiring to speak must be a resident, employee, or parent/guardian of students in the district. (School Board Policy BEDH) ITEM #06 BOARD COMMITTEE REPORTS Budget & Personnel Facilities Policy Strategic Planning Board Member Input ITEM #07 BOARD CHAIR REPORT School Funding Presentation Opportunity ITEM #08 STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE REPORT I TEM #09 SUPERINTENDENT’S REPORT Opening of School School Board and Superintendent's Role/Expectations NHSBA Delegate Assembly Update ITEM #10 DISCUSSION Superintendent’s Smart Goals Field Trip, Laconia Middle School Grade 8 Students to New York City May 2027 Discovery Education Grants First Read AC-R(2): Nondiscrimination, Equal Opportunity Employment, and Anti-Discrimination Plan-Annual Notice of Contact Information First Read Policy JJA: Student Activities and Organizations First Read Policy JJA-R: Student Activities and Organizations Eligibility Standards First Read Policy JJIB: School Sponsored Athletic Programs First Read Policy JJIB-P: School Sponsored Athletic Program -Procedure Second Read Policy EBBB: Accident Reports Second Read Policy JJJ: Access to Public School Programs by Non Enrolled Resident Students Second Read Policy JJJ-R: Access to Public School Programs by Non Enrolled Resident Students - Administrative Regulations School Funding Presentation Opportunity ITEM #11 GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS ON THE AGENDA Citizens who wish to provide public comment shall identify themselves clearly for the records and must give their name, address, and the group, if any, that is represented. Any individual desiring to speak must be a resident, employee, or parent/guardian of students in the district. (School Board Policy BEDH) ITEM #12 ACTION Approval of the Superintendent’s Smart Goals Approval of the Field Trip for Laconia Middle School Grade 8 Students to Travel to New York City May 2027 Approval of the Discovery Education Grants Approval/Adoption Policy EBBB: Accident Reports Approval/Adoption Policy JJJ: Access to Public School Programs by Non Enrolled Resident Students Approval/Adoption Policy JJJ-R: Access to Public School Programs by Non Enrolled Resident Students - Administrative Regulations School Funding Presentation Opportunity ITEM #13 NON-PUBLIC SESSION PER RSA 91-A:3, II ( l ) Legal Matter IT EM #14 ADJOURNMENT Next Meeting: October 6, 2026 at 6:00 PM
Friday, Sep 11 2026
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SUPERINTENDENT’S WEEKLY NEWSLETTER
SUPERINTENDENT’S WEEKLY NEWSLETTER September 4, 2026 Dear Colleagues, Students, Families, and Laconia Community: Welcome Back from what I hope was a great summer. This is my first Superintendent’s Weekly Newsletter for Sachem Nation employees, students, families and community members. It is my pleasure to join the Laconia community as your Superintendent of Schools. I have been impressed with the pride residents of Laconia have for its schools and community. One targeted area for the upcoming year will be to focus on student achievement and outcomes. We will do so by working to continuously strengthen teaching and learning, expanding opportunities, strengthening school, family and community support for public education, and preparing students for the future. Starting in October, we will be providing concrete updates on student achievement. With the Strategic Plan already in place, I will be working on the plan every day. It is imperative that you provide feedback. Over the course of September and October I will be holding both in-person and virtual Superintendent Coffee Hours. These are an opportunity to ask questions, provide ideas, and work collaboratively for our scholars. It will also be an opportunity to have you provide me feedback as I create my Transitional Entry Plan . The dates will be sent out separately from the newsletter. I also believe in transparency and will be adding the School Board agenda to this newsletter. The newsletter will be distributed each Friday, with Board agendas included in the first and third issues of each month. In Appreciation, Dr. B Contact Information: Dr. Joseph F. Baeta, jbaeta@laconiaschools.org
Friday, Sep 04 2026
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Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year!
LACONIA SCHOOL DISTRICT School Administrative Unit 30 "Ensuring success with every student, every day in every way" Joseph F. Baeta, Superintendent Amy N. Hinds, Assistant Superintendent Dawn Cilley, Business Administrator Dear Laconia School District Parents/Guardians and Students: Welcome to the 2026-2027 school year. It’s my pleasure to be your new Superintendent of Schools and I am looking forward to working with you. As a visible and collaborative leader, it’s important that we engage in finding solutions to issues that are in the best interest of our students. I use the following phrase, “ALL MEANS ALL.” It’s important that we focus on each individual student and provide the very best we can. Student achievement will be at the core of our goals for Laconia Public School students and educators. Rigor, relevance and relationships will be a daily focus. Engaging and motivating students for learning will be a priority. This is my 18th year as a Superintendent and my work remains centered on students and supporting educators. Ensuring that every student reaches graduation is a must. It starts with reading, writing and arithmetic, supported by social development and meaningful support. I’m excited to be a member of Sachem Nation and I look forward to being a visible and engaging leader who will support “All Means All.” We are ready for Day 1 on August 31st. Please look for my first Superintendent’s Weekly Newsletter starting in September 2026. Go Sachems! With Regards, Joseph F. Baeta, Ed.D Superintendent of Schools 39 Harvard Street . Laconia, New Hampshire . 03246 . Tel. (603) 524-5710 . FAX (603) 528-8442 Equal Opportunity Employer
Friday, Aug 28 2026
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Letter from Superintendent of Schools
Good day, I hope you're doing well. Please see the attached letter from Dr. Baeta, Superintendent of Schools. Kind regards, Regina Sargent Administrative Assistant School Administrative Unit #30 Laconia School District
Wednesday, Jul 08 2026
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Superintendent Announcement
Laconia School Board 39 Harvard Street Laconia NH 03246 www.sau30.org FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - February 26, 2026 The Laconia School Board is proud to announce the appointment of Dr. Joseph Baeta as the next Superintendent of Schools for SAU 30, effective July 1, 2026. Dr. Baeta brings seventeen years of superintendent experience, having led three Massachusetts school districts: Holbrook, Norton, and most recently Stoughton. He is widely recognized as a visible and trusted community leader who fosters strong school cultures grounded in high expectations, shared goals, and meaningful collaboration. Throughout his career, Dr. Baeta has demonstrated a consistent commitment to improving student outcomes and implementing programs that support student success. The Laconia School District serves as the heart of the community’s commitment to its future. With three elementary schools, preschool opportunities, a middle school, a high school, and the Huot Career and Technical Center, the district provides a comprehensive education for learners from early childhood through adulthood. Dr. Baeta’s leadership philosophy closely aligns with the district’s mission: “Learning transfers to life beyond the Laconia School District experience, so students have the confidence to lead, to follow, and to grow in order to be responsible citizens who own their future.” The district’s vision, “Ensuring success with every student, every day, in every way” , along with its Portrait of a Graduate skills, will guide Dr. Baeta’s work. The six core attributes identified by the Laconia community, Communicate, Collaborate, Create, Persevere, Problem-Solve, and Self-Direct , remain central to preparing students for life beyond graduation. Dr. Baeta has expressed strong enthusiasm for advancing these priorities while supporting the district’s five-year Strategic Plan goals in Academics, Student and Staff Wellness, and Community Engagement . The search process began in the spring of 2025 when the Laconia School Board entered into a contract with The Bryan Group. A representative search committee composed of parents, teachers, staff, district administrators, school board members, and community members invested hundreds of hours in a transparent, thoughtful and thorough process. Out of eight applicants, three highly qualified finalists were recommended to the Board. Following careful deliberation and with appreciation for the committee’s work, the Board confirmed its offer to Dr. Baeta, who proudly accepted and is excited to join Sachem Nation. Dr. Baeta is currently completing the New Hampshire certification process (he is presently certified in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts). The Board has every confidence that certification will be finalized shortly and that a formal contract will follow. A resident of the Lakes Region, Dr. Baeta looks forward to bringing his collaborative leadership style and strong advocacy for public education to Laconia as he continues his distinguished career in New Hampshire. He recognizes that Laconia’s schools are poised for continued growth and innovation, supported by engaged families, dedicated staff, and a clear strategic direction. The Laconia School Board extends its deepest gratitude to all members of the search committee, and a special thank you to committee chair Jen Sottak, who continued to support the process after the finalists were identified. The Board also thanks each candidate who participated for their professionalism and dedication to public education. The Laconia School Board would also like to formally recognize and thank Interim Superintendent Amy Hinds and Interim Assistant Superintendent Lisa Hinds for their steady leadership over the past year. Both stepped into new and expanded roles during a period of transition, demonstrating professionalism, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to students and staff. Interim roles come with unique challenges, balancing continuity with progress while serving the immediate needs of the district. Interim Superintendent Amy Hinds and Interim Assistant Superintendent Lisa Hinds embraced those challenges with grace and dedication, ensuring stability across our schools while continuing to advance the district’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities. The Board is grateful for their willingness to lead during this critical time and is proud of the work accomplished under their guidance. Additionally, sincere appreciation is extended to the Laconia High School administrative team for stepping up during this period while their principal served as Interim Assistant Superintendent. Their collaborative leadership, flexibility, and steadfast commitment to students and staff ensured the continued success and smooth operation of the high school throughout the year. The Laconia School Board is excited to welcome Dr. Baeta into the proud and spirited Laconia community. As he begins his leadership on July 1, 2026, the district looks forward to working together to strengthen its foundation, advance its goals, and continue ensuring success with every student, every day, in every way.
Thursday, Feb 26 2026
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Superintendent Search Committee Announces Finalists
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Laconia Superintendent Search Committee Announces Finalists Laconia, NH — The Laconia Superintendent Search Committee has announced three finalists for the position of Superintendent of Schools. The committee, which has been meeting since September, devoted extensive time to soliciting community input and identifying the roles, competencies, and leadership qualities most important to the Laconia School District. Based on this comprehensive process, the committee believes each finalist is well-qualified to serve the district. The three finalists in alphabetical order are: Dr. Joseph Baeta , Stoughton, Massachusetts Ms. Lisa Hinds , Laconia, New Hampshire Ms. Wendy Kohler , Goffstown, New Hampshire Dr. Joseph Baeta has served as a superintendent for seventeen years in three Massachusetts districts—Holbrook, Norton, and currently Stoughton. He is known for being a visible and trusted community leader, focused on building a strong culture grounded in high expectations, shared goals, and collaboration. With a history of improving student outcomes and implementing numerous programs to support student success, as well as a residence in the region, Dr. Baeta hopes to bring his extensive experience as a strong advocate for public education and his collaborative leadership style to Laconia as he completes his career in New Hampshire. Ms. Lisa Hinds has supported the Laconia School District in multiple leadership roles since 2015, including Academic Coordinator for Teaching and Learning, High School Principal, and, most recently, Interim Assistant Superintendent. An active member of district-wide planning, she demonstrates a capacity for engagement and collaborative leadership. She has a rich background in instructional quality and improving student achievement, future-ready learning, student support systems, and a deep understanding of Laconia’s schools, families, and community, and in building strong community relationships needed to support them. Ms. Wendy Kohler has served as Assistant Superintendent in Goffstown since 2022. Previously, she was Principal of Goffstown Middle School for nine years and Assistant Principal of Londonderry Middle School for four years. Ms. Kohler brings a history of building supportive, student-centered systems, empowering educators, and strengthening opportunities for all learners. She is recognized for building trusting relationships, partnering with communities, and leading with integrity and transparency. She hopes to relocate to a family home in Laconia, where she has long-standing ties. The Laconia School Board will interview the finalists this week and anticipates making a selection within the next week. A "candidate meet & greet” for district staff and community members will be held at the Huot Technical Center Dining Room on Monday, February 16 th from 5:30 to 6:30 PM. [Thursday, Feb 12 at 3:05 PM] UPDATE: February 12, 2026. The meet and greet planned for Monday, February 16 is canceled. It will be rescheduled for a later date.
Tuesday, Feb 10 2026
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Extended Learning Opportunities
Office of Extended Learning Laconia School District School Administrative Unit 30 "Ensuring success with every student, every day in every way" Kerri Howe, Director ~ (603) 524-5710 ext. 1006 November 21, 2025 Good Afternoon Parents, We ask that you please take a moment to watch the attached Extended Learning Opportunities (ELO) video. ELO is a program available to all Laconia High School students that empowers them to take ownership of their education; learning by doing, connecting with mentors, and preparing for the future. Encourage your child to start their ELO by completing the ELO Interest form which is located on the Laconia High School website. If you have any questions, please reach out to Ken Martin, ELO Coordinator kmartin@laconiaschools.org or you may contact me. Have a wonderful weekend. Kerri Howe, Director khowe@laconiaschools.org
Friday, Nov 21 2025
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Superintendent Search Committee Survey
Laconia School District SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH COMMITTEE Please Participate in the Laconia School District Superintendent Community Survey ! (Link will be active until November 19) The Laconia Superintendent Search Committee is reviewing the role of the Superintendent and will be searching for the best person to support the needs of students, staff, and the community. As membership on the committee was limited, the search committee is reaching out to the Laconia community to gather thoughts on the strengths of the district, areas of need, and the actions you feel should be the focus of the new Superintendent. This survey is available November 6-19, and can be accessed on the District website or by clicking on the following link. [ https://forms.gle/nrPv73kvkuzHZJ8BA ] “Ensuring success with every student, every day, in every way” 11/6/2025
Thursday, Nov 06 2025
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Superintendent Search Committee Membership
“Ensuring success with every student, every day, in every way” August 12, 2025 Subject: Call for Applications – Superintendent Search Committee Membership Dear Laconia School District Community, The Laconia School Board is initiating the search for our next Superintendent, a decision of great significance for our district’s future. As part of this process, we are forming a Superintendent Search Committee composed of representatives from across our school community to provide input and guidance throughout the search. The outcome of the search committee will be to recommend qualified candidates to the full school board for final selection. We are seeking interested individuals to apply for a position on this important committee. Parents, staff, and community members are encouraged to apply. Participation on this committee is a unique opportunity to represent your stakeholder group and contribute meaningfully to the leadership of our district. Time Commitment: Committee members will be expected to attend and participate in the following scheduled meetings: 9/11, 5-7pm 9/25, 5-7pm 10/2, 5-7pm 10/16, 5-7pm 10/30, 5-7pm 11/6, 5-7pm (optional) Please ensure you are available for all listed dates before applying. Committee Charter: A draft Committee Charter outlining the purpose, scope, responsibilities, and representation categories of the committee will be provided upon being selected. We encourage all search committee members to review the draft charter prior to the first meeting. Selection Process: Applicants will be grouped by stakeholder category as defined in the Committee Charter (e.g., parent, teacher, admin, community member, etc.). Only one submission will be accepted per person based and must designate an applicable role being submitted for. From each category, members will be selected at random from the submitted pool of qualified applicants to ensure fairness and broad representation during the school board meeting on 9/2. Selected individuals will be notified within 48 hours of the selection and asked to confirm their participation promptly. If you are interested in applying, please complete the [attached/application link] form and submit it by 9/1 either to superintendentsearch@laconiaschools.org or drop it off at the SAU building at 39 Harvard Street, Laconia NH, 03246. If you have any questions regarding this process please reach out to Michele Munson (Bryan Group Consultant) at mmunson1024@gmail.com . We appreciate your interest in serving our school community during this pivotal moment. Thank you for your continued partnership and support of the Laconia School District. Sincerely, Laconia School Board LaToya Beck-Brown LaToya Beck-Brown, Chair Ward #4 Jennifer Anderson Jennifer Anderson, Vice Chair Ward At Large Zachary Dea Zachary Dea, Member Ward #1 Laura Dunn Laura Dunn, Member Ward #2 Karin Salome Karin Salome, Member Ward #3 Nancy Simoneau Nancy Simoneau, Member Ward #6 LSD Superintendent Search Committee Application Thank you for your interest in serving on the Superintendent Search Committee. Your participation is vital to this important process. Please complete the following application to be considered for a role on the committee. Either print and return completed form to the SAU Office, email the form to superintendentsearch@laconiaschools.org , or complete via our Google Form . Applicant Information Full Name: _____________________________________ Email: _________________________________________ Phone Number: _________________________________ Address: ______________________________________ Are you an employee or resident of Laconia ( Y / N ) Role Selection Please select the role that best represents your affiliation. Please select only one as each applicant will only be considered for one role: ⬜ Elementary Admin ⬜ Elementary Staff ⬜ Elementary Parent ⬜ LMS/LHS Admin ⬜ LMS Staff ⬜ LHS Staff ⬜ LMS Parent ⬜ LHS Parent ⬜ SAU ⬜ Community at large ⬜ City Representative Statement of Availability Please confirm your availability for the scheduled committee meetings. ⬜ I confirm that, as of this time, I am available for the scheduled dates of the Superintendent Search Committee meetings and am a resident or employee of Laconia NH. I understand that my availability is a crucial component of my ability to serve effectively on the committee.
Tuesday, Aug 12 2025