East Hartford alum chosen as new superintendent

Joseph Villanova, Journal Inquirer, Manchester, Conn.
·2 min read

Mar. 23—EAST HARTFORD — The Board of Education has appointed East Hartford alum Thomas Anderson as its new superintendent, replacing long-time administrator Nathan Quesnel for the 2023-24 school year.

Anderson has served as the superintendent in New Bedford, Massachusetts, since 2018. He worked as a superintendent in Randolph, Massachusetts, from 2014 to 2018, and as assistant and instructional superintendent of District of Columbia Public Schools from 2011 to 2014.

Anderson also served as principal of schools in Maryland, and as executive director and founding principal of the Larry Hawkins Charter School in Chicago.

Quesnel is currently paid $214,700 a year as East Hartford's Superintendent of Schools, and Anderson's salary will be $230,000.

Anderson said he is excited to return to his hometown, where he started his teaching career 26 years ago.

"I have a clear understanding of the East Hartford Public Schools' commitment to academic excellence with a lens on equity and supporting the whole student," Anderson said. "I am dedicated to the mission of educating all students."

Board of Education Chairman Tyron Harris said Anderson's appointment is the result of reaching out to stakeholders in East Hartford's schools to help guide the search.

Harris said Anderson comes with a wealth of experience and deep ties to East Hartford.

"We are confident he is the right leader to take the helm from Nate Quesnel and that he will continue our tradition of pursuit of excellence for the students and families of East Hartford," Harris said.

Quesnel has served as an employee of East Hartford public schools in a number of roles for over 21 years, working as a teacher, coach, assistant principal, and principal.

He was appointed as superintendent in 2012 while serving as principal of East Hartford Middle School, after the Board of Education chose to hire from within.

The Board of Education began its search for a new superintendent after Norwich Free Academy, a privately governed school serving Grades 9-12, announced in October 2022 that Quesnel would become its new Head of School for the 2023-24 school year.

In December 2022, Quesnel said he deeply appreciates what East Hartford has done for him throughout his career, and described Norwich Free Academy as an "incredible opportunity" for him and his family.

Joseph covers Manchester and Bolton for the Journal Inquirer.