Superintendent

I’m Michael Clark, and I’m thrilled to introduce myself as the new Superintendent of the Orange
Southwest School District. With over 28 years in education, including 21 years in school
administration, I have dedicated my career to cultivating vibrant and supportive learning
environments where every student has the opportunity to thrive. From my start as a high school
teacher to my roles as principal and superintendent, I’ve embraced diverse challenges and
opportunities to enhance educational outcomes.

I hold a Master’s in School Leadership from Saint Michael’s College, where my capstone project
highlighted the significant progress of a disenfranchised student through a service-learning
project, underscoring my commitment to student-centered education. My academic background
also includes a Bachelor’s in Environmental Chemistry with a concentration in secondary
education from Johnson State College.

In my most recent role as Superintendent for Grand Isle Supervisory Union (2018-2024), and
previously as Superintendent for Essex-Caledonia Supervisory Union (2015-2018), as well as
Interim Principal at Concord Elementary/Middle School, I’ve had the privilege of leading and
supporting diverse educational communities. My earlier roles include serving as High School
Principal at Bellows Free Academy in Fairfax (2009-2015) and various positions at Colchester
High School (1999-2009), including Assistant Principal and Director of Student Support
Services. Additionally, my experience spans roles such as Director at the Green Mountain
Conservation Camp and teaching high school science and math in New Hampshire.

Currently, I serve as Chair of the Vermont School Boards Insurance Trust and as a
Commissioner for the Military Interstate Compact Commission. My involvement with the
Vermont Superintendents Association as a Trustee for the Northeast Kingdom Region
(2016-2018) and Champlain Valley Region (2021-2024) has further deepened my commitment
to educational leadership.

My wife Jenna, a Randolph native, and I are excited to return to our Central Vermont roots and
to the Orange Southwest School District, encompassing Braintree, Brookfield, and Randolph.
We are grateful for the warm welcome we’ve received from the community.

I look forward to the opportunity to contribute my extensive experience and enthusiasm to the
district. My goal is to continue fostering dynamic and supportive learning environments that
empower every student to succeed.

Please feel free to call or email me anytime to connect. I’m eager to collaborate with you and
support our shared vision for educational excellence.

Warmly,
Michael J. Clark