SWAMPSCOTT — Jessica Minter, a special education teacher who has been with Swampscott Middle School since 2017, has been named the new principal effective July 1.
Minter will be the successor to previous principal Jason Calichman, who will be taking over as superintendent the same day.
She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Salem State University before entering the Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies program, and completed her studies last month.
“It’s a huge honor and a great responsibility,” Minter said. “The staff is rock-solid and so supportive. That played a crucial part in my decision… From the time I made the decision to go back to school for my master’s, getting into leadership and administration were always part of the plan.”
Minter continued, “It’s a responsibility and an honor to build relationships with students, staff and families. That’s the foundation that helps the school run. If you have student learning and student happiness, you’re going to have a successful school. The administration is there to lift everybody up.”
Calichman expressed his support for Minter, who feels confident about her ability to lead the school.
“Jessica has worked very hard on acquiring the knowledge and skills it takes to be a successful administrator,” Calichman said. “She has built strong relationships with students, families and teachers, and earned their respect. I know she will be an excellent leader.”
Minter added that she summarizes the role of principal in one simple goal: “To make people want to come to school and work.”
