Danvers Makes It Official With New Superintendent Of Schools

DANVERS, MA — The Danvers School Committee made it official with the district's new superintendent this week as Marblehead High Principal Dan Bauer signed his contract following a successful contract negotiation.

Bauer, who was chosen as the next superintendent in January, will begin his new job on July 1.

Bauer signed the deal during Monday night's School Committee meeting.

"I am certainly happy to be moving forward because I just can't wait until July 1," Bauer told the Committee, "after being able to balance the world of being a high school principal and making the transition. I have to say hat's off to (Acting Superintendent Mary Wermers). She's been awesome in communicating and working together, including me in the process of looking for a new middle school principal, and with (Danvers High Principal) Adam (Federico) with the athletic director (search). Just moving forward."

Bauer has been a frequent presence in Danvers in the two months since being selected as the next superintendent — taking part in several school outreach and student events.

"The highlight being reading to the preschoolers," he said. "That was a lot of fun. I actually picked out the book.

"It's been a great process. I am really looking forward to digging in and learning more as I get ready to take the reins on July 1."

Wermers has served as co-acting superintendent and acting superintendent since December 2021 following the medical leave, and eventual retirement, of former Superintendent Lisa Dana.

"You have really helped us bridge the gap, so to speak, and have done a fine job," Danvers School Committee Chair Eric Crane said to Wermers at the meeting. "And Adam, we appreciate all of the assistance that you have rendered to Mary in stepping up and taking on a new role."

Marblehead's search for a new high school principal, as well as a new assistant superintendent, is ongoing with screening committees currently in place to narrow down semifinalists.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)