School Committee Names New Director of Student Services

The Westwood School Committee voted to approve Superintendent John Antonucci’s recommendation to hire Abigail Hanscom as the new Director of Student Services in a meeting Thursday night.

Hanscom will take over for Audrey Seyffert, who is retiring after this school year, effective July 1.

As the Director of Student Services, Hanscom will oversee the Special Education, Guidance and School Health Departments.

“I am thrilled that Abby has decided to join my administrative team,” said Antonucci. “Her professional and academic credentials are incredible.”

Members of the School Committee expressed how pleased they were with Hanscom coming to Westwood Public Schools. Committee member Carol Lewis was involved in the selection process, and noted that Hanscom was by far the best applicant in the running for the position.

Committee Chair Josepha Jowdy and member Ellen Mason also noted that they were impressed with Hanscom’s interviewing, as well as her track record. They also said that she was very highly regarded at Newton Public Schools, where Hanscom is currently the Assistant Director.

Members of the committee, as well as Antonucci, said that and are looking forward to working with her in the future. Antonucci noted that Hanscom has proven leadership and impressive communication skills, two things that were looked for in the selection process.

Antonucci said that the selection process was thorough and inclusive.

“It is important to me that members of the school community have the opportunity to participate in the process,” said Antonucci. “The input I received from our search committee, faculty and staff, and parents, was invaluable. Because of that, I can say with confidence that Abby is a great fit for the Westwood community.”

Since 1998, Hanscom has worked in various capacities for Newton Public Schools and is currently the Assistant Director for Student Services there. She graduated from the University of Massachusetts with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, and has two Master’s Degrees from Boston University, one in Special Education and the other in Social Work.

Hanscom also has a CAGS in Educational Administration from the University of Massachusetts, Boston, and she serves as an adjunct faculty member at Lesley University.

“Beyond her academic and professional credentials, she has exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, and she has a proven track record of effective leadership,” said Antonucci.

Antonucci also gave his respect to outgoing director Audrey Seyffert, saying that she will be missed.

“There is no more respected special educator in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, and I am grateful for all that she has done for our public schools,” said Antonucci. “We were fortunate when Audrey agreed to join us four years ago, and it has been my pleasure watching her in action every day.”