Schools Chief’s Contract Extended

Board Praises Bookman’s Work

“We greatly appreciate the effort of getting so much done in our school buildings.” School board Chairwoman Susan Karp

GLASTONBURY — Schools Superintendent Alan B. Bookman, who saw Glastonbury Public Schools through “some unique challenges” during the 2017-18 year, has been awarded a new three-year contract.

The board of education recently extended the contract through 2021. Bookman, superintendent since 2004, will receive a 2 percent raise and make $263,087 during the current year.

Bookman is evaluated annually by the board. Chairwoman Susan Karp said the past year has seen the closing of Eastbury Elementary School and redistricting, as well as severe cuts in t he budget, which were later restored. Karp also pointed to

Bookman’s work in bringing air conditioning to the elementary schools and other major capital projects in the district.

“Not only do we expect him to get things done in the best way, but we also expect him to do it in the most cost-effective manner, which is a challenge especially last year,” she said. “We greatly appreciate the effort of getting so much done in our school buildings.”

Karp praised Bookman for hiring and retaining strong administrators and teachers, and also the strength of his communication skills, not only with the community, but across the state.

“We are impressed with the breadth and depth of his knowledge,” Karp said. “He represents us well not only in local meetings … but across the state. I know he is looked at by his peers to answers that are very difficult.

“I’m very confident and pleased with how he has led Glastonbury public schools,” she added, “and confident he will continue to lead Glastonbury public schools in the best possible way.”

Board Vice Chairman Douglas C. Foyle compared Bookman to the CEO of a major corporation, except that he is overseeing a $100 million education budget with more than 1,000 employees and 6,000 students.

“I don’t think members of the public appreciate how difficult that job is and how many facets there are,” Foyle said. “Any one of those aspects mishandled in an administrative way can cause an enormous amount of difficulty for the school system or town of Glastonbury. We need to appreciate how fortunate we are to have such an effective leader as we have in Dr. Bookman.”

Bookman credited his relationship with the board of education for his success.

“I’ve always considered it a team and people working together in many different ways,” he said. “That’s how things get done. If you don’t work as a team, things don’t get done.”