Superintendent Lusi Reflects on Time in Portsmouth

As Superintendent Susan Lusi nears the end of her time with the Portsmouth school system, she notes that the strides made during her time in Portsmouth were not solely her creation.  

“I want to emphasize that [our successes were] a team effort,” said Lusi.

Lusi announced in mid-January that she would not be seeking another term as superintendent. Her contract is set to expire on June 30.

She adds, however, that her decision was not spur-of-the-moment. Lusi says that upon starting the job in 2005, she commented that it would probably be for a “five to six year timeline.”  

As for future plans, Lusi couldn’t comment. “[I’m currently] in discussion,” she said.

Whatever the future holds for Lusi, she said she’s learned an “enormous” amount from the “legal and budget issues” tackled during her time as superintendent.

“Despite budget challenges…[We’ve] been able to stay focused on what’s right for the kids,” said Lusi.

Lusi’s assertion is evidenced by Portsmouth’s seemingly superior spending practices. The per-pupil expenditure in the Newport school district is $18,734, whereas Portsmouth spends roughly $12,346 per student. Despite less spending, Portsmouth students enjoy a variety of benefits, such as SAT scores above the national average, according to Rhode Island Department of Education service Infoworks.          

Lusi was also positive about students’ improved performances “in science at all levels.” In a recent visit to Portsmouth, RIDE Commissioner Deborah Gist confirmed that idea: Portsmouth High School students have the highest science scores in the state, she said.

The School Committee is currently searching for Lusi’s successor. A subcommittee was formed by chairperson Cynthia Perrotti to find a replacement for Lusi.

The committee decided in March that the new superintendent’s annual salary would be between $125,000 and $145,000.