ROCKPORT — The interim director of student services at Rockport schools has been offered the job.
Ann-Marie Luster was appointed to the post, pending contract negotiations, by a unanimous 5-0 vote of the School Committee.
The Office of Student Services provides supportive services, accommodations and educational programming for children with disabilities in compliance with federal and state regulations, according to the department’s website, www.rpk12.org.
Luster is the right person for the job and the School Committee’s vote to formally appoint her was the right move, Superintendent Mark Branco said.
“She’s done a remarkable job in a really quick amount of time,” Branco told committee members. “The learning curve is steep. I think she’s still working on that. It’s going to be a little while to fully understand the scope of the job. I think some of us are in here two, or three or four (years) and we’re still figuring out the scope of our jobs.
“I’m really proud of the work she has done,” he said. “She has fit in beautifully with the team. She really is looking at programming in a way that I don’t think we’ve looked at in a long time.”
On Friday, Luster said the School Committee’s decision to hire her is recognition of their trust and confidence in her to lead, advocate and create change in the School District.
“This opportunity is a responsibility and a privilege that will allow me to drive initiatives that ensure students with special needs receive the resources and support they need to thrive,” she said.
“Ultimately, it means being in a position where I can have a positive, lasting impact on students, families and the broader school community.”
Luster said she sees her role as an advocate for all students’ needs. She plans to create a supportive and inclusive environment, provide leadership to back social emotional learning, monitor the effectiveness of programs and services, ensure compliance with programs and promote a positive school climate and culture.
“I hope I am able to build on the hard work that has been done in the past and to build a truly inclusive environment so that all students feel like they are part of the Rockport Public School community,” she said.
The key, Luster said, is to foster strong partnerships with families.
“Students with special needs in the Rockport Public Schools can thrive when they have a strongly implemented IEP (individualized education program) and a supportive, inclusive learning environment,” she said.
“These two factors, along with ongoing communication between teachers, parents and service providers, are key to ensuing that the students are successful academically and socially.”
Luster has demonstrated attention to balancing programs that fit the needs of students with budgeting concerns, Branco said.
“Student services covers a really, really broad range of students,” he said.
“The charge to meet the needs of all of our learners is really led well by Ann-Marie. I wholeheartedly ask for your support in moving forward with removing the interim tag and entering into contract negotiations for the full position.”
In collaboration with the building principals, the Office of Student Services oversees special education programs, integrated preschool programs, “English Learner Education,” tutoring in the home and at hospitals, as well as programs related to civil rights and Title IX requirements.
The Student Services Office is at Rockport Elementary School, 32 Jerden’s Lane. Luster herself can be reached via e-mail at aluster@rpk12.org or by calling 978-546-1210.
Stephen Hagan can be reached at 978-675-2708 or at shagan@gloucestertimes.com.
Stephen Hagan may be contacted at 978-675-2708, or shagan@gloucestertimes.com.