What is a quality or characteristic of John Reed’s that you find helps you as a principal?

(Superintendent of Schools John Reed retires after 20 years of service to Newtown. His last day is June 30).

William Bircher, Head O’ Meadow principal: “One quality I have admired in John is one of self reflection. It’s one of the things he has always modeled. The first person he looks at is himself. He’s not a blamer. Another is his profound belief in continuous improvement.”

Diane Sherlock, Newtown Middle School principal: “John’s ability to see all sides of a situation.”

Jo-Ann Peters, Hawley School principal: “His integrity and compassion.”

William Manfredonia, Newtown High School principal: “One is his vision for where education should be heading and, two, is his ability to view what is best for students as the primary goal in every one of his decisions.”

Judy Gallo, Middle Gate School principal: “As a principal what he has done is empowered me and allowed me to make decisions. He believed in me. He believes in his leadership team. He backs you and let’s you get out there, but he also supports you.”

Donna Pagé, Sandy Hook School principal: “John’s honesty and belief in the goodness of the human spirit are two of his many wonderful characteristics.”