School Profiles: Meet Paul Szymanski, Assistant Supt. of Finance and Administration

Name: Paul Szymanski

Position: Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Administration

His office is responsible for the budget, fiscal and operational functions of the Andover Public School district, according to the website.

Szymanski said he oversees the finances and works with the Superintendent and School Committee on budget development. In addition to managing the accounting functions, he oversees transportation, food services, custodial operations and the Collins Center facility operations.

During the year he said he will work on higher level projects; policies and procedures, safety, hazard and evacuation plans, as well as monitor their compliance with State and Federal regulations

Professional Background

Szymanski has over 20 years of experience as the business manager of Pentucket Regional, North Andover, and Billerica districts, and as the assistant superintendent for the Hamilton-Wenham Regional District.

It was at Hamilton-Wenham where he previously worked with Superintendent Marinel McGrath. 

Describing his background as “broad and diverse,” Szymanski said he made several career changes throughout the years. He began his career in design and drafting for the Aerospace Industry. This led to a career change to manufacturing where he was promoted to VP of a dehumidifier company. A downsized economy in the mid 80's led to another career transition as a consultant to the Billerica Schools. There, he said he was encouraged to pursue school business administration positions. 

He holds an MBA from Suffolk, and a BA from Merrimack College in Business Administration.

Andover's Appeal

He said he wanted to come to Andover because “it is a well organized community committed to the development of children.”

Having previously worked with McGrath and Director of Student Services Joyce Laundre (in North Andover), he applied for the position to be part of their team. "Prior relationships are important at this level," he explained.

Challenges of the Position

Szymanski said that one of the biggest challenges will be to ensure that the budget is well managed and responsive to fiscal crisis.

Another challenge is improving operating efficiencies, and "how we collect monies for fee-based programs."

Goals

Szymanski said his goals are to improve the fund account system and the process of developing annual operating budgets. “The Financial Controls for the district are a major issue for me." 

Relating Background to Accomplishment of Goals

"Building a team is important, and we have an excellent team here," he said.  Everyone is on the same page and working in the right direction," he explained.

Personal Background

Szymanski lives in Wilmington with his wife. Together, they have 6 children and 9 grandchildren, who "keep us busy.”