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8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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1 Letter of pplication
Dr. Marco Rodrigues
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
2/28
Marco C. Rodrigues
Jll a;••u1cullliiif 81?II; ap MJ u sa2 « •
February 29 2016
Dr. Helen A Friel
Assistant to the Superintendent/
Clerk
o
the School Committee
Worcester Public Schools
20 Irving Street
Worcester MA 01609
Dear Dr. Friel
Please accept this letter as my official application for the position o Superintendent o Schools
currently open in the Worcester school district. I began my professional career in the Worcester
Public Schools twenty-three years ago as an Instructional Assistant. I taught became the
Director
o
the Woodward Day School the Executive Director o the Central Massachusetts
Special Education Collaborative the Manager o Special Education and Intervention Services
the Chief Academic Officer and am currently serving as the Interim Superintendent.
I am proud o my accomplishments and the evolution o my career within the Worcester Public
Schools. I grew personally and professionally and I believe that my educational preparation and
my professional experiences have prepared me for this position. My successful track record and
experience in successfully executing strategic plans and deploying necessary supports for
continuous improvement have prepared me to lead the district.
I appreciate the opportunity to participate in the selection process and look forward to sharing
my views through the interview process.
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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2
urrent Resume
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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Marco C Rodrigues
Attta:s••••M\ l lEt8tM
lltYHIJlli'Pl J
1m,w J a -'a1 u umlfllllll
~ R E E R
OBJECTIVE
To serve as the
hief
Executive Officer to an urban school district, with clear vision and direction focused on success for
all students.
Provide leadership based on deep experience in the design, integration, implementation
and
management
of
a
complex district wide system to improve student outcomes.
CORE COMPETENCIES
• School Turnaround
• Special Education
• English Language Learners
• Curriculum Alignment and Mapping
• Schools Climate and Culture
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
WORCESTER PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Interim Superintendent Dec 2015
-
present
• Strategic Planning
• Innovation Schools
• areerNocational/Technical Education
• Professional Leaming
• Financial and Fiscal Sound
• Provide leadership for the district s short and long term goals.
• Make recommendations to the School Committee regarding new policies or applicable revisions of existing policies.
• Provide the School Committee periodic progress reports and reports pertinent to the district operations and academic
functions.
• Manage and supervise the district s daily operations.
• Address the needs and concerns of all members of the district and community at large.
Provide leadership for the development and implementation of academic programming and support services to all Pre
K through grade 12 students.
• Provide leadership and manage the district s budget.
• Provide leadership to ensure that a healthy and safe school environment is maintained throughout the district.
hief
Academic Officer Jul 2012
-
Nov 2015
• Provided leadership, vision, and direction for the District s curriculum, instruction, assessment and school
improvement initiatives.
• Built and supported a high performance educational team - inspiring, integrating and aligning the academic work
of
the district.
• Developed and maintained clear and inclusive decision making processes to ensure integration of the teaching and
learning supports and services, as well as effective ongoing technical and operational management of the schools.
• Supervised a team that includes managers and directors
of
English Language Learners, special education, intervention
and supplemental services and programs, early education and care, Head Stait Program, career and technical
education, and quadrant managers who supervise principals.
• Implemented effective curriculum, instruction, and assessment policies and practices that maximize educational
options and lead to improved achievement for all students.
• Implemented State and District school reform initiatives such as district redesign, Level-4 Turnaround Plans,
Innovation schools, magnet schools, and alternative pathways.
• Supported district and school leaders to design and implement school accountability plans that employ instructional
visions and practical strategies to improve student achievement.
• Developed and oversaw a highly effective and aligned professional development program for teachers, principals, and
support personnel.
Oversaw the development
of
partnerships with educational and community organizations both locally and nationally
to support, complement and enhance district programs.
• Communicated effectively with internal and external stakeholders to ensure enhancement and sustainability of
partnerships.
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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Manager ofSpecial Education and Intervention Services Jul 2010 Jun 2012
• Restructured the instructional programming to improve the continuum
o
special education services available
in the district.
• Implemented systems to assess and improve the quality o curriculum and instruction in special education
classrooms.
• Developed and implemented three new special education programs to increase the enrollment o low
incidence disabilities within the district.
• Implemented quality control systems to decrease compliance issues with Department o Elementary and
Secondary Education.
• Improved two-way communication with parents and community relative to service accessibility and student
support services.
• Implemented on-going, targeted professional development for special education teachers and instruct ional
assistants.
• Developed and implemented in-district ABA services for students within the Autism spectrum.
CENTR L M SS CHUSETTS SPECI L EDUC TION COLL BOR TIVE
Executive Director Jul 2007 Jun 2010
• Managed the institution's
1
million-dollar budget, including the employment o
165
staff members, management and
supervision
o
6 school directors and 1 business manager.
• Authored the CMSEC Policies and Procedures Handbook to comply with the Massachusetts Department
o
Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) special education regulations.
• Instituted annual professional development plan devised to target school' s individual areas o need.
• Negotiated group health insurance benefit plan and cost with health care provider.
• Re-organized internal K-12 structure to generate coherence among existing schools and programs and to create an
effective vertical alignment between sister schools .
Jirector - Woodward Day School Jul 2001 Jun 2007
• Managed 3 sites and provided leadership to create and support a non-traditional alternative school setting that
prioritized academic achievement.
• Supervised and evaluated all staf f members.
• Recruited, screened, hired, discharged, and trained personnel.
• Organized in-service professional development training for staff members to embed strategies to motivate and engage
students.
• Authored Student Handbook.
• Authored Teachers' Manual.
Assistant Director - Woodward Day School Satellite Jul 1995 - Jun 2001
• Managed and provided leadership to support students and staff at a non-traditional alternative school setting that
prioritized academic achievement.
• Supervised and evaluated all staff members at the Satellite site.
Teacher Woodward Day School Jul
1992 Jun
1995
• Taught mathematics and science course to grade 7-12 students.
Instructional Assistant - Woodward Day School Jun 1991 - Jul 1992
• Provided support to students in grades 7-12 under the supervision
o
the classroom teacher.
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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EDUCATION
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY Miami FL
Doctor ofEducation in Educational Leadership
anuary 2 5
ASSUMPTION COLLEGE Worcester M
Master ofArts in Special Education
May 1997
WORCESTER STATE COLLEGE Worcester MA
Bachelor ofArts in Spanish
Augus t 1995
CERTIFICATIONS
Massachusetts Department
of
Elementary nd Secondary Education
Certificate 328715
• Superintendent/Assistant Superintendent - All Levels
• Supervisor/Director All Levels
• Special Education Administrator - All Levels
• Principal/Assistant Principal - Grades 5 - 9
• Principal/Assistant Principal - Grades 9 -
2
• Teacher
of
Moderate Special
Needs
Grades 5 -12
• Teacher
of
Foreign Language
Grades
5 - 12
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
• Language fluency
• Portuguese
• Spanish
• Board Member
• United Way
of
Central Massachusetts
• EcoTarium
• Worcester Investment Board
• Central Massachusetts Special Education Collaborative
• Affiliations
• Massachusetts Association
of
School Superintendents
• Urban Superintendents' Network
• Worcester County Superintendents' Roundtable
•
Consultative Work
• Jobs for the Future, Spring 2006 - Provided consultant work, design ofleadership modules and curriculum, in the
area
of
Alternative School Leadership
• Jobs for the Future, Spring 2006 - Presented at two national leadership conferences on student engagement and
motivation
•
Higher Education
• Interim Professor, Clark University, Fall 2005 - Hiatt Center for Urban Studies
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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4 Four Letters o Reference
(One
o
the four shall be written by
a former student of the applicant,
or
o
the applicant s school or
school district, as applicable)
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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orfolkPublic Schools
The cornerstone of a proudly diverse community
February 24, 2016
I
am
pleased to offer this letter o reference for Dr. Marco Rodrigues who is applying for Superintendent
with Worcester Public Schools. Dr. Rodrigues is a strong, proven educational leader who possesses both
deep instructional knowledge and business acumen.
Dr. Rodrigues brings an extremely unique perspective to the role
o
Superintendent. Having progressed
from the ranks
o
an instructional assistant to teacher, director o a Special Education Collaborative to Chief
Academic Officer, and now Interim Superintendent, he has the total perspective on the full scope necessary
to lead the third largest school district in Massachusetts. In addition to his experience, he has the associated
positive results linked to his administrative leadership. Dr. Rodrigues was highly effective in restructuring
the Worcester Public Schools' Special Education Department from one where complaints were received
almost daily from parents and DESE to one
o
better customer service, cost containment, and recognition
byDESE.
As Chief Academic Officer, he led the school redesign implementation for Burncoat Prep Elementary
resulting in that school's exit from Level 4 status after three years. He was also successful in creating a
turnaround plan for Elm Park Community School that was approved by the Commissioner o Elementary
and Secondary Education.
Dr. Rodrigues is well-known and respected in the Worcester community. Those strong relationships , paired
with his highly effective leadership, resulted in the successful grant application to the Community Health
Foundation providing funds to address the needs
o
students impacted by trauma.
Worcester Public Schools has seen great systematic improvement and results over the past several years,
including drop-out reduction and four-year graduation rates moving to 80 for the first time. Instructional
knowledge, fiscal responsibility, and deep community connections are the skills necessary to support all
students in Worcester to college and career readiness. Worcester Public Schools and the Worcester
community would be served extremely well by Dr. Marco Rodrigues serving at its helm.
Please feel free to contact me should you desire additional information.
Sincerely,
Melinda J Boone, Ed.D.
Superintendent
o
Schools
s•••l ill r
UA-gl iJ .531
M § O C t ; ; a
. . . . _ .
- o
·
ai•ill jDl1Jlltttw
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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PENTUCKET REGIONAL SCHOOL DISTRICT
OFFICE
OF
TH
E S
UPERIN
T
END
E
NT
22
MAIN
STR
EET
G
ROV
EL
AN
D
MERRI
MAC
WEST NEW
B
URY
l l l l [ j
TJ ldlSill
lM
M
BldMUJl••s
Jeffrey
J
Mulqueen d.
D
Superintendent
Greg A Labrecque
Business Manager
Michael A Jarvis Ed.D.
Director
of
Supplemental and
Intensive Services
February 3, 2016
To Whom This May Concern:
Reference Letter - Dr. Marco Rodrigues
I am writing to support the candidacy
of
Dr. Marco Rodrigues for a leadership position in your
school district. Dr. Rodrigues served on my leadership team in the capacity
of
Director of Special
Education
in
Worcester during my tenure
as
Chief Academic Officer.
He
became Worcester s Chief
Academic Officer in 2012 when I was hired
as
Superintendent
of
Schools for Pentucket Regional
School District. Dr. Rodrigues currently serves as Worcester s Interim Superintendent of Schools.
He is an extraordinary educational leader whose talents make a difference for students, staff, and the
community every day.
Dr. Rodrigues promotes the learning and growth of all students and the success of all staff by
cultivating a shared vision that makes powerful teaching and learning the central focus
of
schooling. He reinforces a strong link between professional practice and student learning.
Accountability and continuous improvement support high student attendance and graduation
rates, trending improvements in student outcomes, and reduced gaps between the achievement
of
high needs students and their peers. Dr. Rodrigues has high expectations for every student and
uses his insight as a resource to ensure every student has a bright future
of
his or her choosing.
His leadership has been integral to strengthening Worcester s innovation school initiative,
Advanced Placement (AP) enrollment, and early-college/career partnerships.
Effective learning environments provide cognitive and emotional safety for students and staff.
Dr. Rodrigues ensures each school is a safe, efficient, and effective learning environment, using
resources to implement appropriate curriculum, staffing, and scheduling. Moreover, his
leadership resulted in a successful Statement Of Interest (SOI) and partnership with the
Massachusetts School Building Authority (MSBA) for one of Worcester s elementary schools.
To that end, Dr. Rodrigues articulated the clear connection between intended outcomes, high
quality educational programming, and the required needs of the school facility. The MSBA
approves only a small fraction
of
the many SOi s received each year. Results
of
this magnitude
can be attributed to Dr. Rodrigues s educational expertise.
Accomplishing bold goals requires the contributions
of
the school, family and community. Dr.
Rodrigues promotes the learning and growth of all students and the success
of
all staff through
effective partnerships with families , community organizations, and other stakeholders that
support the mission
of
the school and district. The Special Education Parent Advisory Council
serves as a good example
of
Dr. Rodrigues s successful partnership in support of student success.
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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February 3, 2016
Reference Letter Dr. Marco Rodrigues
His highly refined interpersonal skills were instrumental in reaching consensus with this highly
diverse group. Dr. Rodrigues is able to bridge differences related to culture, language, and
thinking. While he has a strong preference for face-to-face communication, he successfully
employs a variety of strategies to gather and use feedback, inform parents community, or work
through conflict.
Dr. Rodrigues promotes success for all students by nurturing and sustaining a school culture of
reflective practice, high expectations, and continuous learning for staff. He meets regularly with
district leadership to plan and implement strategies important to guiding the organization. Dr.
Rodrigues convenes regular professional development sessions with school leaders to build
cohesion and a positive team culture. His participation with teachers in instructional rounds
helps him maintain a clear view of teaching and learning. Interacting with teachers helps to
frame his thinking about next steps
on
the path
of
continuous improvement.
I would be pleased to speak with you directly to lend additional details about Dr. Rodrigues s
many outstanding technical and adaptive attributes. Your students, staff members, and
community would be fortunate to be supported by Dr. Rodrigues.
Sincerely yours,
effrey J. Mulqueen, Ed. D.
Superintendent of Schools
2
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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PAUL M. ROSEN Ph.D.
CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST
~ t
-
Oi ftn@SCl ep=
::::::: :rl:
February 24, 2016
To
Whom It
May
Concern:
It is my pleasure to write in full
support
of
Dr.
Marco Rodrigues who is applying for
the position of Superintendent of Worcester Public Schools. I have known Marco for
many years during
the
period of time
th t
I was the Clinical Director of the Central
Massachusetts Spedal EducatiCffiToilabdrative. I have had a ringside seat watching
Marco s remarkable progression from the classroom, to the Director of Woodward
Day
School, to
the
Executive Director of
CMSEC
to the Manager of Special Education,
and then to the job
of
Chief Academic Officer of Worcester Public Schools. I can say
with great confidence that Marco is an exceptionally strong educator and
administrator who has unique qualities th t will enable him to be an extraordinary
leader of the School District.
Marco has been highly successful in a broad array of educational and administrative
endeavors.
His
success begins with his disciplined
work
ethic. He has a prodigious
work capacity and is the hardest working person I know. He
is
extremely organized
both in his work habits and in his approach to leadership. While Marco is very
capable in dealing with the details of administration, he is also a man of
gre t
vision.
He has th t unusual capability to focus on the critical details th t allow a large
organization to function smoothly while simultaneously seeing the big picture th t
allows for continuous growth. Marco insists on excellence of himself and for those
who work for him. He inspires others to perform
t
their highest capabilities and
does not settle for anything less. As Superintendent, he will always be committed to
ensuring th t WPS is t the forefront of high achieving urban school districts.
Marco forges strong professional relationships and is outstanding in developing
teams
th t
work cohesively. He is fair but firm. He leads by example and commands
respect through his own exemplary performance and his willingness to roll up his
sleeves and tackle any problem. He is a relentless problem solver. He does not avoid
or shy away from any challenge but r ther seeks creative solutions.
He
stays current
on the best practices in education and is consistently out front in bringing those
ideas into the District.
Due
to his extensive background in working with very challenging special education
populations, Marco has developed a deep understanding of the needs of students
who are most t risk He has a sophisticated awareness
of
how to help these
students including those who have histories of aggression and violence. I recall
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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Rodrigues Marco
ic:rom:
ent:
To:
Subject:
Rodrigues Marco
Monday February 29 2016 10:03 AM
Rodrigues Marco
·RE:
Ryan
Mullen Letter
of
Recommedation
From:
Ryan
Mullen
b T
Lim
I 152. 1 ]
Sent: Friday
February 26
2016
8:34 AM
To:
Sivazlian JoAnn M
Subject: Ryan Mullen Letter
of
Recommedation
To whom it may Concern,
Worcester Public School System
2/25/16
I am writing on
behalf
of Dr. Marco Rodrigues, acting Superintendent of the Worcester Public Schools. I
had the pleasure of knowing Dr. Rodrigues when I attended school during my freshman and sophomore year in
high school in Worcester. Dr. Rodrigues was the most caring teacher and mentor I had ever crossed paths with
and believe it was him who inspired
me
to be the person I am today.
When I first met Dr. Rodrigues, I was going through a very difficult time being on my own without any
structure due to my parents divorce. During that time period, divorce was not common where I had grown up
and had a large negative impact on
my
life which affected all areas
of my
life. He helped me through many
struggles and helped me become a man with coping and learning strategies. These necessary tools helped save
my
life, as
I
was prone to hanging out with the wrong crowd.
Dr. Rodrigues has a great heart and cares for children s education and safety. This was proven to
me
as
I
lay
very
ill
in the hospital suffering from infected lymph node glands.
He
came to visit
me
and was concerned with
my well being, as well as making sure I did not fall back on my studies. That to me was the
most
selfless act
anybody had ever done for me .
Dr. Rodrigues had a way of dealing with severe and challenging issues in a gently and caring way. He a
cares about children not well being and helping them beat the life struggles inner city along with upper class
troubled children.
t
has been many years he worked hard to help the underprivileged and privileged students
become better members of our small community.
I
know have become successful and owe a lot
of my
success to Dr. Rodrigues. He is not politically influenced
but one to help the community through his kindness, caring knowledgeable caring of students
of
the city
through his dedication and hard work.
Please make the right choice for the greater education of our great city.
Thank You
Ryan Mullen
1
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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5
Verification
of
Eligibility for
Certification as a Superintendent
of Schools
in
Massachusetts
if
any
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
15/28
;
he ommonwealth
o
Massachusetts
Department o Education
Educator s
License
O CE
RTIFYTHAT TH
E
PERSON
NM lED H
ER
E
ON
IS
QUALIFIED UNDER
THE
PROVIS
I
ON
OF GE
NERAL
lAWS,
C.
15, SI
G,
c.7
1,
S38G,
C.7
1
A,
71BAND
OR
C.74 AS AMEN
DE
D
AND
UNDER
THE
RG
UIATIONS
PRE
SCR
I
BED
OF EDUCATION, AND ISEllGIBlf
FOR
APPOINTMENT IN THEPUBLIC SCHOOlS OF MASSA
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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UNOFFICIAL LICENSE INFORMATION
Page of
;
UNOFFICI L LICENSE INFORM TION
Marco Rodrigues
Wevdl
-
FJPll 2±533
Educator: Marco C Rodrigues
MEPID: 50785537
FIELD
LEVEL
Foreign Language -
[Spanish] (5-12)
*Special Needs (5-12)
Special Education
Administrator (All Levels)
Principal/Assistant Principal
(5-9)
Principal/Assistant Principal
(9-12)
Supervisor/Director (All
Levels)
Superintendent/
Assistant
Superintendent (All Levels)
CATEGORY
ACADEMIC
ACADEMIC
ACADEMIC
ACADEMIC
ACADEMIC
ACADEMIC
ACADEMIC
This license
information
was generated by
the educator
from
the
Department's
electronic licensure file,
ELAR
I t
should
not
be taken as proof
of
current licensure
or
as an official record. The
Department
advises
that
verification of this information
via ELAR is always necessary.
License :
**,
n
J
Original Certification Date:
11/24/1995
APPLICATION
ISSUE
EXPIRATION
TYPE
DATE DATE
Preliminary
11/24/95
Professional
07/07/97
08/12/12
Initial
04/19/07
Initial
05/04/00
Initial
05/04/00
Initial
09/13/00
Professional
09/08/15
09/06/20
*
Primary
Area
**
Valid
for
five
5) years of
employment.
Please contact
the
Department
of
Elementary and Secondary Education customer service at 781-338-6600, if your license information
above is incorrect
or
incomplete.
E L R
d u c ~ t o r I . l c e n . . u r ~ :
mt Rt Cnutmcnt
ELEMENT RY SECOND RY
EDUC TION
,
https://gateway.edu.state.ma.us/elar/viewlicenseNiewLicensePageControl.ser 2/29/2016
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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6 A Completed Application form
with typed responses to a c
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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APPLICATION FORM FOR
SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS
WORCESTER MASSACHUSETTS
Please re d before completing the following application: The Worcester Public Schools does not
discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis
of
race, color, religious creed, national origin, gender,
sexual orientation, ancestry, age, disability, genetic information, military status or status as a disabled
Vietnam era veteran, except where age or sex is a bona fide occupational qualification as allowed by the
Civil Rights Act
of
1964. No question on this employment application is intended to secure information
to be used for such discrimination. This employment application will be given every consideration, but its
receipt does not imply that the applicant will be employed.
PERSONAL DATA
Date
of
Application 2-29-16
Rodrigues Marco
Cesar
Last Name
B ie 3 1 J i 3 I
ti
bk t 8
First Name
Mi 11e Name
.
llJ 2 e
Present Home Address (street, city, state zip)
20
Irving Street Worcester, M
01609
Tele_phone
(508) 799-3115 (508) 799-3119
Present Business Address (street, city, state zip)
Telephone
Fax
Regarding current position:
Number
of
employees district/school _,9_0_o istrict/school enrollment _5_,_oo_o
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
(beginning with present)
Title From/To Dates
Interim Superintenden 12-1-15 to Present
Chief Academic Office Jul/12 to Nov/15
Manager Special Educ Jul/1Oto Jun/12
Executive Director
Jul/07 to Jun/10
Director Jul/01 to Jun/07
Assistant Director Jul/95 to Jun/01
District/State
Worcester School District, MA
Worcester School District, MA
Worcester School District, MA
Central MA Collaborative, Worcester, M
Woodward Day School, Worcester, M
Woodward Day School, Worcester, M
PROFESSIONAL PREPARATION
(beginning with earliest degree)
Institution
Nova Southeastern University
Assumption College
Worcester State College
Concentration
Educational Leadership
Special Education
Spanish
Enrollmen
25,000
25,000
25,000
450
120
40
e g r e ~
Doctorate
Master of Ar
Bachelor Art
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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RELATED CERTIFICATION
Field
Superintendent
REFERENCES
·
State
Massachusetts
Certificate Number
il IOTll
Please list three people whom we might call who are knowledgeable about your professional competence a
who have
NOT
written letters
of
reference for your file.
Name
Position
Address
Telephone
Margaret landoli-Cole
Assist. Director
i
Mary Jo
Marion Director
i l I
Jennifer Davis Carey Executive Director
1 11
ADDITIONAL WORK EXPERIENCE
From/To Dates Position
Employer Location
Jul/92 to Jun/95
Teacher Worcester Public Schools Worcester
Jun/91 to Jul/92
Instructional Assistant Worcester Public
Schools
Worcester
APPLICATION PROCESS
The following material should be submitted by
FEBRUARY 29 2016.
1
A letter of application indicating suitability for the position.
2. A current resume.
3. College/university placement papers and academic transcripts indicating degrees.
4.
Four letters of reference, one
of
which shall be written by a former student
of
the applicant, or
of the
applicant s school or school district, as applicable.
5 Verification
of
eligibility for certification as a Superintendent
of
Schools in Massachusetts (if any).
6 A completed application form with a typed response to
each
of the following:
a. How do your experiences and education best qualify you to serve as Superintendent
of
the
Worcester Public Schools?
b What is your philosophy
of
education, and how do you envision carrying out that philosophy
as Superintendent
of
the Worcester Public Schools?
c. What do you anticipate your preliminary or initial goals will be as Superintendent
of
the
Worcester Public Schools?
PLEASE NOTE:
Candidates are advised not to contact individual School Committee members unless
requested to do so
Materials should be mailed
to:
Helen A. Friel, Ed.D.
ssistant
to the Superintendent/
Clerk of the School
Committee
Worcester
Public Schools
2 Irving Street - Room
1 8
Worcester,
M
01609-2467
508-799-3032 TELEPHONE; 508-799-3190 FAX
ma us
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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As a candidate, I understand that at some point in the selection process the law may require that the
information contained in this application be made available to the public, nd that the facts set forth
herein will be subject to verification.
I certify under the pains and penalty of perjury that ll statements made by me on this application and
accompanying resume, and other documents, if any) are true and complete to the best of my knowledge nd
that I have withheld nothing, which, if disclosed, would affect application unfavorably. I understand that any
false statements or material omission of fact
on
the application and accompanying resume and other
documents, if any) shall be grounds for rejection of this application or for immediate discharge if I m
employed, regardless of the time elapsed before discovery.
~ - d - P / - / p
Date
Equal Opportunity Employer.
8/20/2019 Application materials of Dr. Marco Rodrigues for the position of Worcester Public Schools Superintendent
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6a How do your experiences and
education best qualify you to
serve as Superintendent o the
Worcester Public Schools?
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Question 1
How
do
your experiences and education best qualify you
to
serve as the uperintendent
o
he
Worcester Public
Schools
I was born and raised in Brazil and, after working in accounting and human resources for 1
years, I relocated to the United States. My first full time
job in
Brazil was at the age
of 15
while
attending high school during evening hours. My sister and I were the first generation in our
family to complete a college degree. Raised in a modest family oflt li n immigrants, we were
fortunate to have parents who believed in the power
of
education, and whose own education did
not exceed the middle school level.
Upon arrival to the United States, I held jobs at McDonalds, Domino s Pizza, and cleaning
services at local supermarkets during the night shift while attending morning ESL classes at the
Adult Leaming Center.
Then, in 1991, I was hired by the Worcester Public Schools as an Instructional Assistant and was
assigned to the Alternative School. At the time I was attending Worcester State College and
earning a bachelor s degree, with a major in Spanish language. Upon completion
of my
degree, I
immediately enrolled at Assumption College where I earned a master of arts in Special
Education. With my degree, I became a teacher in the Worcester Public Schools assigned to the
Woodward Day School (WDS), an alternative setting for students who had a long-term
suspension from school.
In 2001, I became the Director of the Woodward Day School (WDS). While at the WDS, I
reformed the belief that academic practices were secondary to student discipline. I initiated
systems that were put into place to support teachers instructional practices, along with strategies
to address disciplinary issues. Professional Learning Community practices emerged as a result of
targeted professional learning and collegial work focused on student achievement.
In 2007, I became the Executive Director
of
the Central Massachusetts Special Education
Collaborative (CMSEC), a Kindergarten through grade 12 organization that provides specialized
special education services to students with disabilities referred by Worcester and surrounding
towns. While at CMSEC, I improved the organization s coherence and instructional capacity,
created additional programming to address the needs
of
member districts, and transformed the
organization s fiscal practices. ·
In 2010, I joined the Worcester Public Schools administrative team as the Manager
of
Special
Education and Intervention Services. While in this capacity, I eliminated most artificial barriers
that existed toward parent engagement. I developed a culture
of
partnership and trust with
individual parents and the Special Education Parent Advisory Council. I restructured and created
new in-district programs to accommodate the needs of our student population. During my tenure,
I also streamlined costs associated with out-of-district placements and began creating in-district
capacity to service students with Autism.
In 2012, I became the Chief Academic Officer (CAO) of the Worcester Public Schools. In this
role, I managed all aspects of teaching, learning, and student support for the district while
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supervising the Quadrant Managers for Curriculum, Instruction, and School Leadership, the
Manager
of
Special Education and Intervention Services, the Manager
of
English Language
Learners and Supplemental Support Services, the Manager
of
Professional Learning, the Director
of
Career and Technical Education, the Director
of
Head Start, and the district s Safety Liaison.
Featured aspects
of
my tenure as CAO included successful implementation, supervision, and
evaluation
of
the Turnaround process for the level 4 schools, evaluated and supported the
Innovation Schools practices, evaluated district programs and services, developed structures and
frameworks to support the district s improvement strategy, restructured the Dual Language
Program, created structures to improve student graduation, decrease drop-out rates,
and
fully
implemented the new Educator Evaluation system.
As the Chief Academic Officer, I was a member
of
the Superintendent s Senior
taff
Cabinet
and fully participated in all aspects
of
the district s leadership and operations.
Effective December 1 2015, I was appointed by the School Committee to serve as Interim
Superintendent
of
schools. On December
3rd
I presented an Entry Plan to the School Committee
delineating my overarching vision and goals to support the district during the interim period.
Since December 1
5
\
I have been diligently working on the contents
of
my Entry Plan and have
been fully engaged with and leading all district operations.
My educational and professional trajectories clearly demonstrate that I am a motivated, focused
individual who possesses leadership qualities that enable me to be responsive to the needs
of
the
Worcester Public Schools. My vast knowledge
of
the district s overall operational status,
including its successes, challenges, and optimistic future status, positions me as a strong
candidate for the position.
For every leadership position I have held, I successfully expanded the institution s
or
department s organizational effectiveness by developing internal capacity and aligning program
and services to meet the needs
of
students and families. My global view
of
educational issues
allows me to direct my attention to the current needs
of
the organization while strategically
planning for its future expansion.
Worcester has been my home for the past 27 years. Through my personal and professional life, I
have developed strong relationships and partnerships throughout the community and I firmly
believe that I can continue to strengthen and forge additional partnerships as the Superintendent
of
schools. My ability to speak Portuguese and Spanish
is
a great asset and facilitates my
interactions and relationship with these two major ethnic subgroups in our rich and diverse
community.
For these reasons, I believe I am well qualified and poised to lead the Worcester Public Schools
for the next
7
years.
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6b. What is your philosophy of
education and how do y ~
envision carrying out that
philosophy as Superintendent o
the Worcester Public Schools?
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Question 2
What is your philosophy o education and how do you envision carrying out that philosophy as
Superintendent o
he Worcester
ublic
Schools?
My philosophy of education encompasses a series of strong values and beliefs which drive my
voice, attitude, behaviors and actions and has resulted in my successful performance as a leader.
For this particular question, I will contextualize my answer and will synthesize it into one word
Equity.
Reflecting on my roots and upbringing in Brazil, I was a product of public education which was
free but not for all. I had many friends in elementary school who did not continue to middle and
high school because life circumstances had them joining the workforce to help support their
families. Poor families in Brazil are not supported by governmental assistance, therefore
everyone must work to ensure food and housing. Teachers were underpaid and a teacher
typically worked in multiple schools throughout the day. They had very little classroom
resources and some teachers were less skilled than others.
In our community, public education is free for all school age children and attendance is
compulsory. Yet, equity in education continues to be a strong but silent variable. Equity is
described as a variety of educational models, programs and strategies that may be considered
fair, but not necessarily equal. Equity is the process - equality is the outcome.
The accountability system for public districts and schools in Massachusetts clearly identifies the
performance of student sub-groups and also identifies how districts fair in educating the high
needs group, which
s
composed of students whose families are identified as economically
disadvantaged, students with disabilities, and English language learners.
Inequities in public education is present on many different levels: staffing, instructional
practices, cultural/linguistic background, and socio-economic and familial status.
Staffing inequities begin with an inadequate funding formula that places urban districts at a
significant disadvantage in their ability to hire additional personnel with competitive
compensation to match the candidate's skill and experience. n addition, diverse urban districts
have minimal minority representation in the workforce and large gaps in cultural competence.
Instructional inequities exist in public education. These inequities are more likely to surface in
specialized programs (i.e. sub-separate classrooms, alternative education) where the course
content, the rigor
of
instructional practices, and less-skilled teachers may adversely affect student
achievement. The lack
of
cultural competence described above also promotes conscious and
unconscious favoritism, bias, and prejudice by some teachers, directly affecting instructional
delivery and support.
Inequities for families and students with cultural and linguistic diverse backgrounds are evident
in urban cities and districts. Some immigrant or refugee families are at a disadvantage when
navigating the process of accessing services or making educational choices to serve their best
3
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interest. As an immigrant I experienced first hand some barriers that made it difficult for me to
access specific services. Linguistic inequities also exist and in public education
th y
can
manifest as lower academic expectations for English language learners which adversely affect
student success aspirations and post-secondary opportunities.
Finally socio-economic inequities are widely discussed but generate the least traction when it
comes to addressing the issues inherent
in
the sub-group identified as economically
disadvantaged. Children in this sub-group are likely to underperform academically have access
to fewer resources and less funding to pursue post-secondary opportunities. Some families also
experience a high level of household dysfunction with abuse neglect and little to no
encouragement and support from the adults to children. Some families are also likely to have
adults with limited to no education including earning a high school diploma.
My background as an immigrant as an English language learner and my experience
in
special
education empower me to view the needs of our schools families and students in a more defined
and realistic way. Having had the experience and having lived through some of the challenges
that many of our families experience every day I approach these challenges with a refreshed
perspective not only to lift the existing barriers but to create systems that will prevent them from
forming again.
I appreciate the cultural richness of the Worcester Community and I embrace the challenges in a
manner to ensure that all students attending the Worcester Public Schools are afforded the
opportunity to access services and to excel academically. Equity in education is not a public
school district issue it is a community issue. As a first generation in my family to go to college I
will embrace with the same enthusiasm and drive the mission to ensure that all students will
receive a world-class education and will graduate college and career ready.
Equity and access must start with us
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6c What do you anticipate your
preliminary or initial goals will be
as Superintendent
o
the
Worcester Public Schools?
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Question 3
What do y u anticipate your preliminary or initial goals will be as Superintendent
o
he
Worcester Public Schools
As the Superintendent o the Worcester Public Schools, my initial goals would be:
1
To establish and promote a highly effective leadership governance by building a
trusting, productive, and collaborative relationship with the Worcester School
Committee.
2 To develop a culture o collaborative partnership with families and to engage them as
active partners in their children s education.
3
To establish an open, fluid, and honest communication protocol that builds trust,
positive relationships, and productive collaborations with all stakeholder groups.
4
To promote high quality teaching, learning, and support services to close the
achievement gap and to ensure that all students graduate college and career ready.
5
To build on School Safety practices that encourage a respectful, positive climate and
culture that is centered on teaching and learning.
6 To reform the role o the central office by re-aligning staffing levels and developing
sound organizational effectiveness to ensure higher performance and support for
schools.
7 To ensure that the budget process
is
student-centered and is aligned with the Seven
Point Financial Plan for Advancing Student Achievement and Program Sustainability.