Dear Yarmouth Community,

It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I write this letter of introduction to you as the new principal of Yarmouth High School. I am honored to become part of this community which has already given me a tremendous welcome! From my initial interview with students and the committee, it was immediately evident to me that our school is a unique learning community.

As you can imagine, this summer I have been spending much of my time getting to know the staff, the building, and the broader Yarmouth community.  I also cannot stress enough how valuable Assistant Principal Bongard has been for me both as a thinking partner and colleague.  We are going to make a great team! In all of my interactions this summer, I have been reaffirmed that YHS is a place of strong academics, strong relationships and a strong staff committed to fully developing empowered students.

Professionally, this is my 30th year in education. I began as a high school American Studies teacher then moved to an assistant principal position, followed by high school principal, assumed an assistant superintendent role and most recently even a professor of educational leadership.  I bring a wealth of experience to my leadership position for your children.  What I found was central to all of those roles was my strong connection with students and families and a desire to create positive and challenging learning opportunities.  Perhaps most relevant to you, I am also the parent of three children as well.  I know the joys and challenges that you all experience with your children.

As I begin this school year with you, I want you to know that I will be approaching my work guided by the following:

Visibility- I want students, families, and staff to know I will be present in our classrooms, events, and community.

Approachability- Even the best leadership intent can never be carried out if the staff, students, and families do not feel as though they can go to the principal and be heard, and their ideas and concerns received and considered.

Continuous Improvement- I will be taking in information from a number of sources with the intent to move an already excellent school to be an even better school.

There is already such impressive work happening here.  I look forward to collaborating with you and the larger Yarmouth community.  My intention is to ensure that YHS continues to be an inclusive, supportive, and appropriately challenging environment for your children.

I look forward to meeting you.

 Patrick S. Hartnett, Ph.D.

Yarmouth High School Principal