Superintendent of Schools

William Burkhead 

William Burkhead, a dedicated and accomplished administrator with three decades of experience, has proudly served as Superintendent of Scituate Public Schools since July 2020. Under his leadership, the district is prioritizing the creation of modern, accessible, safe, and dynamic learning environments for all students, while also supporting families and investing in the long-term sustainability of its schools. Scituate Public Schools’ recent achievements reflect the shared commitment to excellence among the School Committee, district leaders, educators, town officials, and the broader community. 

Setting High Standards for Scituate Public Schools

Academic innovation is a top priority for Superintendent Burkhead. Recent advancements include the implementation of the Lexile Framework for Reading to further personalize learning, the adoption of new science programming for grades 7–12 to enhance STEM education, and the expansion of Advanced Placement (AP) offerings, which–along with AP participation rates–have reached an all-time high. Additionally, Scituate Public Schools has broadened opportunities in high-demand fields by securing Innovation Career Pathway designations in both business and environmental and life sciences, while introducing rigorous new coursework such as the Project Lead the Way engineering program.

The district is also making significant strides in enhancing Special Education services to ensure that every student has the resources they need to thrive. Recent initiatives include launching a language-based program at Scituate High School for students requiring intensive support and expanding training for educators to better serve students with dyslexia.

Easing financial burdens on families is another priority. The district has saved families nearly $3 million over the past five years by implementing fee-free full-day kindergarten and eliminating athletic fees. 

In addition, Superintendent Burkhead is focused on maintaining and improving facilities. Over the past five years, the district has undertaken a sweeping series of renovations and upgrades to its schools, with an emphasis on accessibility, modernization, and creating welcoming environments for students and staff. A new elementary school, which received overwhelming community support, will open in fall 2027.   

Previous Leadership Roles

Superintendent Burkhead has been lauded by peers, students, community members and his superiors as an agent of change with an ability to create a “Home Away from Home” environment and culture of excellence.

Before joining Scituate Public Schools, Superintendent Burkhead served as Principal of Monomoy Regional High School, where he led major innovations, including the creation of a community internship program, a challenging Global Studies degree program, a flexible block schedule, and an academic center to support struggling learners. Under his leadership, the school saw impressive academic growth, with the graduation rate increasing by 11.5%, Advanced Placement (AP) enrollment doubling, and the school’s reputation strengthened as a top destination for students in the Cape’s school choice program.

As a result of his significant impact, Superintendent Burkhead was named the 2018 Massachusetts High School Principal of the Year by the Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association. He also received the Bridgewater State University Nicholas P. Tillinghast Award for outstanding achievement in public education, the Cape & Islands Workforce Development Community Award, and the South Shore Community Action Council Award.

Earlier in his career, Superintendent Burkhead was Principal of Normandin Middle School in New Bedford, Assistant Principal and Director of Athletics at Plymouth North High School, and a wellness educator and head football coach.

Superintendent Burkhead also enjoyed a distinguished career as a high school and collegiate athlete and coach. At Springfield College, he was named football team MVP, received the Division 2 Gold Helmet Award, and held the all-time career rushing record for nearly a decade. As a high school football coach, he was recognized as High School Coach of the Year four times by local organizations.

Educational Background & Family

Superintendent Burkhead holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in education from Springfield College and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (CAGS) from Bridgewater State University, where he currently teaches graduate-level courses in secondary education and leadership.

He resides in Plymouth with his wife, a dedicated educator, and has two adult children.