School Committee Email - Phelan Contract Extension

Dear MPS Community,

At the December 10, 2025 School Committee Executive Session, the committee voted to extend Interim Superintendent John Phelan’s contract through the 2026-27 school year, ensuring two full years of his leadership.  After several years of turnover in this role, the School Committee believes this additional year will provide stability, allow us to achieve key academic and financial goals, and set the stage for a successful permanent superintendent search.

As many of you know, Superintendent Phelan returned to Milton Public Schools in June 2025, stepping in after retirement to take on an interim role for one year. With his extensive experience and deep institutional knowledge, he has already had a positive impact in his first six months, focusing on three core priorities: supporting both students and staff to improve academic outcomes, fostering a positive climate and culture across our schools, and maintaining fiscal responsibility as we navigate the FY26 budget and plan for FY27 and beyond.

We are grateful to Superintendent Phelan for agreeing to extend his time with us and look forward to working closely with him over the next eighteen months as we continue to move the Milton Public Schools forward.

In the fall of 2026, the School Committee will begin the search for a permanent superintendent, with a planned start date of July 1, 2027. We will keep the community informed and invite your involvement in this important process.

On behalf of the School Committee, I wish you a happy and healthy holiday season and upcoming December break.  

Sincerely,

Amanda Serio

Chair, Milton School Committee