Dear Brighton Families, 

It is with excitement for the individual and gratefulness for his service that I write to you to announce that Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics Nate Merritt will be leaving the District to become the Director of Aquatics and Physical Education at The Harley School. Mr. Merritt joined Brighton in 2016.

When his hiring was announced, I wrote that he “had established himself as a school leader who focused on student growth, development, and learning above all else” and that “he has a clear sense of purpose and has demonstrated a commitment to providing each and every student with a meaningful school experience in the classroom, gymnasium, and athletic arena.” Nate has certainly lived up to these descriptions while modeling an ethic of care for each individual student and demonstrating a tremendous commitment to the children, families, and school community of Brighton. We are very grateful for his service while being excited for him as he takes on a new professional challenge. 

Mr. Merritt shared the following comment about his departure: "I would like to thank the entire Brighton community for my wonderful experience here. I will miss so much about this role and can't wait to see the programs continue to grow and flourish. Go Bruins!"

Mr. Merritt will begin his new duties at Harley on Oct. 16. Mr. Rob Thomas, former TCMS Principal, Interim TCMS Assistant Principal, and currently the FRES Interim Assistant Principal, will become the Interim Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics on Nov. 1, following the completion of his interim work at FRES.  Internal coverage will be provided while administrative oversight for the department will be provided by Assistant Director of Student Services Caitlin Feeney between Oct. 16 and Nov. 1.

A search for the next Director of Health, Physical Education and Athletics will commence immediately. Please keep an eye out for opportunities to be involved in the search and to provide feedback on the position.

Kevin McGowan, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools