The Ashland Public Schools is proud to announce the appointment of Katherine (Kate) Altman as the new Principal of the David Mindess School, effective July 1, 2025.

Ms. Altman brings more than two decades of experience in education and instructional leadership, including the past two years serving as Assistant Principal at Mindess and the Henry Warren School from 2018-2023. Her thoughtful leadership was instrumental in successfully transitioning to the newly constructed Mindess building, where she fostered a positive, inclusive school culture, enhanced data-driven instruction, and strengthened academic supports, particularly in early literacy.

A recipient of the 2023-2024 Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year and the National Assistant Principal of the Year representing Massachusetts, Ms. Altman is recognized for her dedication to student achievement, teacher collaboration, and family engagement. Her professional background spans classroom teaching, curriculum development, and leadership roles in both Ashland and Sudbury.

Superintendent Jim Adams shared, “Kate is a respected and collaborative leader who is deeply committed to academic excellence, equity, and the well-being of every student. We are excited for the future of the Mindess School under her leadership.”

The district also sincerely thanks outgoing Principal Jenna Larrenaga for her outstanding stewardship of Mindess over the past three years. Ms. Larrenaga’s leadership was marked by compassion, innovation, and a clear vision for student success. We wish her continued success in her new role as Principal of the Lura A. White Elementary School in the Ayer-Shirley Regional School District.

Ashland Public Schools remains committed to fostering a collaborative school community focused on academic excellence, equity, and student well-being