The Ashland School Committee has appointed Mr. Justin Cameron as the district's next Director of Student Services, effective Aug. 1, 2026. Mr. Cameron succeeds Ms. Brittany Hawkins, who has served the district with distinction and dedication.

Mr. Cameron joins Ashland Public Schools after serving as Principal of Concord Middle School for the past nine years, where he earned a reputation as an innovative, student-centered leader committed to inclusive practices, instructional excellence, and systems-level improvement. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a deep commitment to supporting students with diverse learning needs while fostering strong partnerships with educators and families.

Before becoming a principal, Mr. Cameron began his career at a Chapter 766 special education school, where he gained firsthand experience serving students with significant disabilities. He later served as an Assistant Principal overseeing special education programming, worked closely with district student services leadership throughout his administrative career, and taught graduate-level courses in special education, including assessment, instructional methods, and inclusive practices. His leadership has included chairing IEP meetings, strengthening district programming, and expanding inclusive opportunities for students.

Mr. Cameron currently serves as Principal of Concord Middle School, where he collaborated with district leaders to develop an innovative Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) master schedule that expanded access to targeted interventions and strengthened Tier I instruction. The model was later showcased by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education as an example of innovative practice. He also led efforts to expand in-district specialized programming, improve collaboration with families, and create more inclusive educational opportunities for students.

Educationally, Mr. Cameron brings a strong academic background to the role. He is a doctoral candidate in Curriculum, Teaching, Learning, and Leadership at Northeastern University, holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Framingham State University, and earned his Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Green Mountain College. His professional experience also includes serving as an adjunct graduate professor, consultant, and educational leader in Special Education across Massachusetts.

"Justin brings an exceptional combination of instructional leadership, special education expertise, systems thinking, and innovative problem-solving that will strengthen student services across the district," said Superintendent James Adams. "His experience leading inclusive programming, supervising special education services, and building strong relationships with students, families, and staff makes him an outstanding addition to our leadership team."

Mr. Cameron's leadership has earned high praise from colleagues and supervisors throughout his career.

Concord Superintendent Dr. Laurie Hunter described him as "a rare combination of visionary leadership, operational strengths, and a commitment to supporting students, families, and faculty," adding, "I have encountered few leaders who possess the innovative leadership and emotional intelligence displayed by Justin Cameron."

Angel Charles, Director of Student Services for Concord Public Schools, wrote, "He does not just manage a building; he develops a community," highlighting Mr. Cameron's ability to create school cultures where students and staff thrive.

Throughout his career, Mr. Cameron has championed initiatives that promote belonging and equity, including expanding specialized programming that allows students to remain in their home communities whenever appropriate, embedding inclusive design principles into school planning, and introducing Unified Basketball to strengthen school culture and student connectedness.

Mr. Cameron commented, "I am excited to begin this next chapter by listening, learning, and building meaningful relationships with students, families, staff, and community partners. I look forward to meeting the kids and becoming part of the Ashland community."

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