New Principal Appointed At Adams Middle School In Guilford

GUILFORD, CT — The Guilford Board of Education voted Monday to appoint Dr. Gerardo Martinez as the next principal of Elisabeth C. Adams Middle School. Martinez will officially begin his role on July 1.

Martinez brings over three decades of experience in public education, along with "a proven record of instructional leadership, school improvement, and community engagement," Guilford Public Schools said in an announcement. Martinez has served as a principal across several high-performing school districts in Massachusetts, including Lexington, Wellesley, Brookline, and Boston, leading schools across the Pre-K–8 spectrum.

Most recently, Martinez has served as principal of Estabrook Elementary School in Lexington, Mass., where he has led efforts to strengthen teaching and learning, support positive student relationships, utilize student data to inform instruction, and expand programs to meet the diverse needs of all learners.

Throughout his career, Martinez has been recognized for building strong school communities, supporting student success, developing teacher leaders, and fostering meaningful partnerships with families and the community.

"It is a great honor to be selected to join the Adams Middle School community. Among my fondest professional memories are being a middle school English teacher and principal," Martinez said. "I know firsthand that the seventh and eighth-grade years represent a critical transition point in a student’s journey, and I am committed to ensuring that every student at Adams feels seen, supported, and empowered. I cannot wait to meet and partner with the talented staff and families to continue to build on the school’s success."

Martinez holds a Doctor of Education in policy studies from Boston University, a master’s degree in educational administration from the University of Massachusetts, and a bachelor's degree in English/education. He is also a contributor to "Data Wise: A Step-by-Step Guide to Using Assessment to Improve Teaching and Learning," published by Harvard Education Press, and has served as an adjunct professor at Boston University’s Graduate School of Education.

"We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Martinez to Guilford Public Schools. His deep commitment to student success, his collaborative leadership style, and his strong record of fostering inclusive, high-performing school communities make him an outstanding choice to lead Elisabeth C. Adams Middle School," GPS Superintendent of Schools Paul Freeman said in an announcement. "We look forward to the experience, vision, and energy he will bring to our students, staff, and families. "

The school district extended appreciation to Interim Principal Dr. Wedley Simon, who stepped in this year to provide steady leadership during the search for a permanent replacement.