TURNERS FALLS — With two assistant principals having left their positions in as many years, administrators at Turners Falls High School and Great Falls Middle School are optimistic that new hire Loren Messina closes the revolving door.

Messina had her first day of work last Monday following the departure of Kristen Schreiber, who was hired as Northfield Elementary School’s new principal this spring. A 20-year educator and 15-year classroom teacher, she most recently served as head of the Science, Health and Technology departments at North Middlesex Regional High School. Her new role will be her first as a school-wide administrator. She has confidence, however, that her extensive teaching experience has ideally positioned her for success.

“I’ve always believed that the teacher in front of the students has the greatest impact in the building,” she said, noting that her own experience in the role may help set an example for those she works beside. “Good leadership can impact teachers, which, in turn, is going to impact that many more students.”

The Rindge, New Hampshire resident said she took the job having already felt a connection with the schools and their collective attitude toward fostering a nourishing environment for students.

“At this stage in my career, it’s really important for me to find a culture; to find teachers and staff that care about students and want to create a space for them to learn that’s safe,” Messina said. “When I sat down for the interview here, I immediately felt that in the staff. I immediately felt this positive growth mindset culture.”

“She saw a ‘simpatico’ approach, or belief, between us,” Principal Christopher Barnes said. “In other words … she came to the table and saw our team and said, ‘Wait a second. We really think alike. We really care about the kids and this is a place where people are committed.’”

Barnes assured that Messina’s feelings regarding the fit were mutual. He particularly lauded her experience cultivating equitable school environments. Her most recent accreditation is an inaugural graduate certificate in school leadership (GCSL) for educational equity, racial understanding and organizational transformation from William James College, which she earned in April. The GSCL program is a one-year principal preparation program focused on developing leaders who are able to create the conditions needed to influence equitable mindsets, inclusive environments and effective instructional practice.

“Because of this,” Barnes said, “we knew she was the right person to bring on board to collaborate with me and assist me in leading our school.”

Messina said she is “really excited” to work with Barnes and other staff members to make the two-school building a better place. She noted that there is already “lots in place” in terms of positives, expressing that her role will be less about facilitating change and more about continuing momentum.

“What I think I can do is support that and grow,” she said.

Reach Julian Mendoza at 413-930-4231 or jmendoza@recorder.com.