Groton Appoints John Ramos Interim Superintendent

The Groton Board of Education on Monday appointed John Ramos, the former superintendent of Bridgeport Public Schools, as Groton’s interim superintendent.

Ramos is willing to stay through June 2013 if needed, the board said. The appointment is contingent upon the school board negotiating a contract with Ramos.

“As is apparent by reviewing Dr. Ramos’ professional accomplishments, there is no doubt he is well-qualified to lead our schools,” School Board Chairwoman Kirsten Hoyt read in a prepared statement. “And in conversations with his references, I was impressed with what former associates conveyed about his limitless passion and optimism, along with his relentless efforts on behalf of all students.”

Ramos was superintendent in Bridgeport from 2005 until December, 2011. In August, the state board of education took control of the Bridgeport Public Schools from the local school board. Ramos said he left in December by mutual agreement.

“His departure at the end of last year was based on nothing more than a difference in strategy with a new school board,” Hoyt said in the statement. “Even in the midst of disagreements, Dr. Ramos still received praise for the depth of his experience, the commitment he brought to his job, and the dignified manner in which he always conducted himself.”

Before working in Bridgeport, Ramos served as Connecticut's deputy commissioner of education from 2004 to 2005. He also served as superintendent in Watertown, principal of Norwalk High School and assistant superintendent in Norwalk.

Ramos said he was attracted to Groton because of the community's dedication to its schools.

“The adults in this community are committed to the education of the children and the young adults, and that commitment extends beyond scores on tests,” he said. “ And that resonated with me.”