Page 19 - 2025 April Report

Providence St. Mel action item update
April 4, 2025
Providence St. Mel (PSM) Zoom meeting
Attendees: Jeanette Butala (PSM President), Bobby Krause, and Mabel Colón Purpose: Succession planning
Jeanette shared that a succession plan is in place and was finalized this week. Dr. Dan Wessell, a Caucasian educator who has served as PSM’s Academic Administrator for 16 years, will be recommended to the board in May as the next principal.
Leadership that reflects the student demographic remains a priority for the school.
Mr. Adams is enthusiastic about appointing alumnus Lowell—an African American and former nationally ranked athlete—as the new Athletic Director starting next school year. Lowell will lead efforts to revitalize PSM’s athletic programs and expand offerings to elementary students. He is being considered for a future Executive Chair role.
PSM is also hiring a new basketball coach who is African American, well-connected, and will serve a dual role as recruiting coordinator to build relationships with middle school counselors and students.
Another PSM alum, Sheila—a young African American and current principal at a local charter school—is being offered the Lower and Middle School Director role. She previously worked at PSM for 10 years as a Kindergarten teacher and aspires to become Head of School.
PSM’s recruitment strategy highlights its fine arts program, STEM offerings, and enhanced athletics. Mr. Paul Adams remains strategically involved in the school’s operations, with no anticipated change in his role given his continued enthusiasm for the new hires. For example, he attends weekly administrative meetings, provides ongoing feedback to the team, and is currently exploring the opportunity to lead a capital campaign initiative.
Jeanette plans to remain with PSM for another five years. After two years, she intends to scale back her role to 80% while maintaining a consistent on-site presence three days per week.
PSM demonstrates a clear, ongoing awareness of the importance of succession planning. Changes in leadership can be challenging but through intentional and proactive efforts, they are effectively managing succession risk to ensure continuity and long-term organizational stability.
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