Central Office Staff Directory

Welcome to the Office of the Superintendent
(978) 388-0507

The Central Office serves as the administrative hub that supports the overall operations of the district.
It is responsible for overseeing financial management, human resources, student services, and district-level policies, ensuring that schools have the resources and guidance needed to operate effectively.
The central office also coordinates communication between schools, the school committee, and the community, playing a key role in strategic planning, compliance, and district-wide initiatives.

Please meet the members of the Amesbury Public Schools Central Office. 
To facilitate communication with Central Office employees, a brief description of each individual and their role has been provided. 
The description does not include all responsibilities but does provide an overview of each person’s role.

Administrators

Elizabeth McAndrews - Superintendent of Schools
The superintendent is the chief executive officer of a school district, responsible for overseeing the daily operations, academic programs, and overall management of the district. They work closely with the school committee, central office and building based administrators, and staff to implement policies, ensure compliance with regulations, manage budgets, and advocate for students’ educational needs. The superintendent also plays a key role in strategic planning, staff development, and community engagement.

Joan Liporto - Director of Business and Operations
The Director of Finance and Operations is responsible for overseeing the financial management and operational functions of the district, including budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting. They manage resources, ensure compliance with financial regulations, and oversee facilities, transportation, and food services to ensure smooth day-to-day operations. The Director of Business and Operations is also involved in strategic planning to support the district’s long-term goals and ensure fiscal sustainability.

Christopher Heath - Interim Director of Teaching and Learning
The Director of Teaching, Learning, and Equity is responsible for overseeing curriculum development, instructional practices, and ensuring equitable educational opportunities for all students. They work with teachers and administrators to implement best practices in teaching and learning while promoting inclusive policies that address the diverse needs of the student population. This role also involves analyzing student performance data, leading professional development, and advocating for systemic changes that support diversity, equity, and inclusion in the educational environment.

Martha Robinson - Director of Student Services
The Director of Student Services oversees the development, implementation, and coordination of programs that support the academic, social, and emotional well-being of students. This includes managing services such as special education, counseling, and behavioral interventions, while ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations. The director also works closely with staff, families, and community organizations to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all students.

Heather Eigen - Assistant Director of Student Services
The Assistant Director of Student Services supports the Director in overseeing student support programs, focusing on areas like special education, student counseling, and behavioral health services. They assist with program implementation, staff training, and ensuring compliance with relevant policies and regulations. Additionally, the Assistant Director helps address student needs, collaborate with educators and families, and contribute to the development of inclusive and supportive educational environments.

Support Staff:

Daniel Grayton - Executive Assistant to the Superintendent and Secretary to the School Committee
The Executive Assistant to the Superintendent of Schools provides high-level administrative support, managing the superintendent’s schedule, communications, and key projects. They serve as a liaison between the superintendent, school committee, staff, and external stakeholders, ensuring smooth operations and efficient handling of tasks and meetings.  This position also supports the administrative side of the school committee with responsibilities such as posting meeting agendas and taking minutes.

Carol Bartlett - Central Office Secretary/Receptionist and Administrative Assistant to the Director of Teaching, Learning and Equity
The Central Office Administrative Assistant/Assistant to the Director of Teaching, Learning and Equity provides essential administrative support to the central office team, handling tasks such as scheduling, correspondence, and organizing meetings. They play a key role in ensuring smooth day-to-day operations, assisting with the coordination of district-wide initiatives, and helping to maintain effective communication between school leaders, staff, and the community.

Candace MacLean - Payroll Coordinator
The Payroll Coordinator is responsible for processing employee payroll, ensuring accurate calculations of wages, deductions, and benefits in accordance with district policies and regulations. They also handle timekeeping, resolve payroll discrepancies, and maintain records to ensure compliance with state and federal requirements.  The Payroll Coordinator also communicates with the relevant retirement boards for school staff.

Sarah St. John - Accounts Payable Coordinator
The Accounts Payable Coordinator manages the processing of invoices, purchase orders, and payment requests, ensuring timely and accurate payments to vendors and service providers. They maintain financial records, monitor budget compliance and grant oversight, and support the district’s overall financial operations by coordinating with other departments and ensuring adherence to district policies.

Wanda Ouellet - Administrative Assistant in the Office of Student Services
The Administrative Assistant to the Director of Student Services provides clerical and organizational support to the Director, including scheduling meetings, managing communications, and maintaining student records. They assist with the coordination of student services programs, acquire and manage transportation for identified students with disabilities, prepare reports, and help ensure smooth day-to-day operations of the department.

Julie Hartshorn - District Registrar and Administrative Assistant in the Office of Student Services
The District/Central Registrar in a public school is responsible for managing student enrollment, maintaining accurate student records, and ensuring proper documentation for registration, transfers, and withdrawals. They coordinate with schools and districts to process and update student information, ensuring compliance with state and district regulations.  In addition, they assist with the coordination of student services programs, prepare reports, and help ensure smooth day-to-day operations of the department.