From Xs & Os to ABCs
Principal tackles teaching like NFL pro
Sean Guthrie, a former NFL player for the New York Giants, plans to tackle the Young Achievers Science and Math Pilot K-8 School in the fall as its next principal.
Guthrie, 37, of Hyde Park, will officially replace Virginia Chalmers, who has led the Mattapan school for 20 years, on July 1. He was one of 14 new principals appointed by the School Committee this week.
“I’m looking forward mostly to working with students, families and teachers to create one culture, one team,” Guthrie told the Herald. “One of the main drivers of my leadership style is about teamwork. That is something I pulled from my football background — connecting with families, students and staff so all see each other as equals.”
Guthrie, a Miami native, was captain of the Boston College football team before moving on to play for four years in the NFL as a defensive end, mostly for the Giants before retiring in 2006. While sidelined due to injuries, Guthrie began substitute teaching and working with high school football players.
“I loved working with kids and connecting with kids,” Guthrie said.
Guthrie began teaching math at Monument High School in South Boston the year he left the NFL. He also coached varsity football. He later joined the leadership team at Putnam Avenue Middle School in Cambridge.
Last year, Guthrie participated in the Lynch Leadership Academy at Boston College and became principal fellow at the Curley K-8 School under Principal Katie Grassa.
Grassa called Guthrie “motivated” and a “team player” who values the importance of student, parent and faculty voices.
“One may not have thought what he learned as a football player — working as a team — directly applies to teaching,” Grassa told the Herald. “He is so incredible reflective and positive. He motivates teachers to try new instructional strategies.”