New Head of Buildings and Grounds Hired for Sandwich Public Schools

by Dr. Richard Canfield, Superintendent of Schools

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Jonathan R. Nelson to serve as the Head of Buildings and Grounds for the Sandwich Public Schools.  Mr. Nelson has a Bachelor of Science degree in Facilities and Environmental Engineering from Massachusetts Maritime Academy, as well as a Master of Science degree in Facilities Management, also from Massachusetts Maritime.

Most recently, he has been working as the Director of Public Works and Facilities for the Town of Bourne, and previously worked as Director of Facilities Management at Quincy Medical Center.  He brings a broad range of experience, including capital project planning, project coordination and construction management; including specification writing and technical coordination.   He has had overall responsibility for strategic  management of public works,  as well as wastewater systems management.  In these capacities, he has developed service improvement plans, developed policies, and monitored regulatory compliance.  In terms of day-to-day operations, he has experience with computerized maintenance management systems, and has thorough knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems.

Mr. Nelson will begin his work in Sandwich on July 18.  As superintendent of schools, I was particularly impressed with Jon’s demeanor, and his ability to work well and to lead others was confirmed by his impeccable references.  In the reorganization of the facilities department, he will be responsible for maintenance , grounds and wastewater facilities staff.  Facilities use will continue to operate through Mimi Shorten who will report to Mr. Nelson.  Mr. Nelson will report directly to Michelle Austin, the Director of Finance and Business operations.

Custodial staff are responsible for the cleaning of each school, will be under the supervision of the administration of each school.  This reorganization reduces the administrative position for Director of Custodial Services.

I want to thank Mr. McGrail, School Committee Chair and Facilities Liaison for serving on the superintendent’s search committee.  His understanding of capital needs, and his expertise in turf management  were vital to the search committee.  In addition to Ms. Michelle Austin, to whom the position reports,  Mr. Doug Hill the Lead Maintenance supervisor helped with the technical questions posed to the candidates.

Finally, I extend appreciation to the building principals, and members of our maintenance and grounds staff, including Mimi Shorten who has handled Facilities Use for some 16-years, and Peter Lombardo our wastewater system operator.   All have been working well together throughout the time it has taken to fill the position.  I also want to acknowledge Alan Hall, our former Facilities Director for his continued interest, support and generosity in advising the facilities team that he developed during his tenure in Sandwich.  All look forward to welcoming Jon Nelson and working together to support his success.