We as parents of Thoreau School students would like to congratulate Concord School Superintendent Diana Rigby on her choice of Chris Mahoney as Interim Principal for Thoreau Elementary School. He has provided a mature, stabilizing presence at a school that has seen its share of challenges in the past 3 years. He appears to be a very thoughtful, experienced educator who would be an excellent permanent Principal. In the short time that he has been at Thoreau, he has clearly demonstrated his strong support for the school, it's students and it's faculty through his regular e-mail newsletters to parents and his attendance at multiple extra-curricular events. We feel he has done an excellent job of being highly approachable and of keeping us informed of news and events related to the school. Through his communications he has also demonstrated his understanding of issues relevant to grade school education (math in particular). Through his letters, he has informed us that he grew up in Concord and has demonstrated sensitivity to issues facing Concord residents. We appreciate the perspective that Chris brings to our school community through his experience of travelling and working in other states and overseas.

We truly hope we will be able to offer him the position of Principal on a permanent basis. It would be tragic for Thoreau and our community if we had to change principals for the 4th time in 4 years when we have an excellent Principal in place.

Sincerely

Parents of Thoreau Students