Newton South Taps New Vice Principal

NEWTON, MA — Newton Public Schools has tapped a new vice principal for Newton South, the school announced this weekend.

Last week the district narrowed the search to three candidates, and May 14, Newton South incoming Principal Tamara Stras announced that the district chose Jason Williams as vice principal, effective in July.

"Throughout the search, Jason impressed us with his passion and knowledge of high school education, his analytic and organizational skills, and his ability to connect with people in various settings," Stras said in a message to the communities.

Williams has taught math at Braintree High School for the past 10 years. Stras said the leaders at Braintree High School were complimentary of his record not just as a classroom teacher, but also as a teacher leader and administrative intern.

"Jason was described as a quick learner, a thoughtful and reflective leader, loyal, accepting of feedback and, above all, an extremely hard worker," Stras said.

At Braintree High School, Williams co-chaired an advisory committee where he created and managed a program that aligned with the district’s strategic plan for health and wellness. He has also co-chaired their Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee that investigated disparities in academic success of various student groups based on race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, special education identification.

Williams completed a CAGS in Educational Leadership from Curry College. He earned a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Teaching from Fitchburg State University, in addition to a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education from Boston University.

Stras will begin her position on July 1, taking over for interim principal Mark Aronson. Williams will be taking over for interim Vice Principal Chris Hardiman, who was a school councilor before stepping into the temporary role.

Principal Joel Stembridge resigned last May after 11 years at South. He took a job as principal of a high school in Charlestown.