Plainville School Committee Unanimously Appoints New Director of Student Services

NORTH ATTLEBOROUGH -- June 16, 2026, Plainville School Committee unanimously appoints Candace Andrade as its next Director of Student Services. The four-member board voted 4-0 at its June 16 Zoom meeting to approve Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Parson's recommendation, filling the post vacated by Barbara Serwanka, who is leaving for the Medway Public Schools. Andrade currently serves as Executive Director of Student Services, Health and Well-Being for the Newport, Rhode Island Public Schools and brings roughly 12 years in special education administrative leadership across Rhode Island. Parson told the committee the search drew approximately 30 applicants and that a 13-member interview team vetted finalists through panel interviews, tours, and a family Zoom session. One concern raised in staff feedback, Andrade's career spent largely outside Massachusetts, was addressed by Parson, who noted much of special education is governed by federal law. Serwanka will remain through July 10, with Andrade expected to begin immediately after; contract terms were to be finalized in the days following the vote. The board also voted unanimously to elect member Shannon Kerrigan as Vice Chair, a position left unfilled at the prior meeting.