To the editor:
An open letter to Marblehead and its educational community, Thank you!
For the past 14 years I have had the privilege and pleasure of leading Marblehead Veterans Middle School. While I am leaving for a new challenge, I wanted to thank so many within this great community for their support, guidance, and hard work.
To two community members we have lost who were so influential to me: Libby Moore and Judy Jacolbi. Libby is the reason I applied for this job so long ago. Facing retirement, she sought me out and sold me on how great the school and community was to work within, she was so correct.
Judy was on our School Council for 10 years, and as a former educator, she loved staying involved with the middle school.
To all the superintendents, assistant superintendents, principals, directors, assistant principals and central office staff…thank you for your guidance and help to make me a better leader.
To the various town departments and leaders I have worked with over the years, including Chief Gilliland and Chief King and their fire and police departments…thank you for your support of MVMS and your efforts to keep our students safe.
To my colleagues at other schools that I have worked with through committees, meetings, events and even a short stint as an elementary principal…thank you for working as a true community of teachers and learners.
To our families…I have worked with so many of you over the last 14 years and the involvement and investment in your students’ education is truly impressive. Your students succeed because of your efforts. To the 3,000+ students I have worked with…thank you for making me a better person. As I have worked with you to teach you responsibility, accountability, and kindness, you have done the same for me. I have only wished the best for all our students.
Finally, I would like to recognize and thank the faculty and staff at MVMS. Marblehead Veterans Middle School is a truly special place. For those families who have been fortunate enough to have students go through Vets, you know that everyone in the building is full of energy and passion for what they do every day. I have been so fortunate to work with such an outstanding group of people.
I wish everyone the best as you all move on to your next grade, school or life adventure. Thank you for your support and confidence over the last 14 years.
Matt Fox
(Former) principal of Marblehead Veterans Middle School
