State Education Official Makes First-Time Visit To Souhegan

Souhegan High School had a special visit from the Commissioner of Education on Friday.

Virginia M. Barry was invited to take a tour of the high school led by Souhegan principal Jon Ingram and superintendent Peter Warburton. It was her first time visiting the high school.

Barry was taken throughout the school’s art room, computer lab, tv studio and kitchen. She was impressed with Souhegan’s offerings and the school community members she talked to.

Ingram pointed out his school’s focus on personalized learning and a focus on student engagement. Souhegan High School is unique in its integration of the student-led Community Council that guides decision-making.

“I think what I saw today is a good example of what we would like all our high schools to look like,” said Barry. “The is a lot of personalized learning going on, students are engaged, making decisions and the teachers support it

Ingram explained how the school is focusing on the assessment of his staff and improving upon the leadership structure. He added the he wants to make sure that the state and local school district are moving in the same direction.

Barry said after her visit that she has a “great feeling” about the high school and truly enjoyed the atmosphere and commitment to students it has.

Virginia M. Barry Ph.D. was sworn in as Commissioner of Education on June 1, 2009. The commissioner is responsible for “the organizational goals of the department and represents the public interest in the administration of improving the effectiveness and efficiency of administrative and instructional services to all public schools in New Hampshire.”

Dr. Barry has over 27 years of experience in education as a teacher, leader, tenured university professor, and provost and vice president for academic affairs.

Warburton was happy to welcome the education leader into his school district.

“She is one of the strongest supporters of education for all kids,” said Warburton. “She has done a great job moving things forward for all of us.”