PHS Principal Stepping Down at School Year's End
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Pittsfield High School Principal Maggie Harrington-Esko will step down at the end of the year after nearly 20 years in the building.
"I feel that it is important to let you know that this is a decision that I have come to on my own," she wrote to the school community on Monday evening.
Harrington-Esko is the second administrator to resign after the school became embroiled in a staffing scandal in December. Earlier this year, Superintendent Joseph Curtis announced that he would step down from his position effective June 30.
"This is not an easy decision because PHS is a place I love deeply," she wrote.
"For the past 18 years, this school has been my Home Under the Dome. It's where I've grown as an educator, a leader, and a person. It's where I've laughed, learned, and had the honor of standing beside so many of you through challenges, triumphs, and everything in between."
Harrington-Esko began her career at the high school in September 2006 as a social studies teacher, during which she also acted as a teacher leader, mentor, and adviser. After 11 years in the classroom, Esko was hired to the administrative team where she had multiple titles, including dean of students, vice principal, assistant principal of teaching and learning, and interim principal.
She was tapped as principal in 2022 and is "incredibly" proud of what the school has accomplished together.
"Our students have achieved amazing things — in the classroom, on the stage, in athletics, in service, and beyond," she wrote.
"Our staff has shown incredible dedication, creativity, and care. And our families have been thoughtful partners every step of the way. Being part of this community has truly shaped who I am and I will always be grateful for that."
While Harrington-Esko will be stepping away from this role, she is not stepping away just yet.
"I'll be here through the end of the school year, working hard to support a strong finish and a smooth transition. My commitment to our students, staff, and families remains just as strong today as it's always been," she said.
"To our students: You are the heart of this school. Watching you grow into your voices and your futures has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. To our families: thank you for your trust, your support, and your belief in what this school and this community can be. I look forward to finishing this year strong— together — and I will always carry Pittsfield with me with pride."
On Dec. 11, PHS Dean of Students Lavante Wiggins was arrested and charged by the U.S. Attorney's Office for allegedly conspiring to traffic large quantities of cocaine. He was the first of three staff members to be put on administrative leave, as Dean of Students Molly West and Vice Principal Alison Shepard were investigated for alleged misconduct. The state Department of Children and Families has since cleared West and Shepard.
While the findings of another, district-initiated, investigation have not been released, it has been reported that the claims were unsubstantiated and West has returned to work.
Tags: PHS, principal, resignation,
