Staples High School Principal John J. Brady says his decision to leave Westport for the Amity Regional School District was based on a longtime desire to become a schools superintendent as well as financial needs.
John Brady: “I shall miss this wonderful town.”WN photo
In a letter to Staples parents dated Sept. 15, Brady also said his date of departure will be Oct. 29 “unless (Schools Supt.) Dr. (Elliott) Landon finds a person who can assume my duties sooner.”
In an e-mail to parents dated the same day, Landon had said Brady hoped to leave “on or before Nov. 1.” (See WestportNow Sept. 17, 2004)
“I want you to understand the decision I have made since I realized it has come as quite a shock,” Brady wrote.
“While I truly have enjoyed my experience here at Staples, when I was approached by the Amity Schools, my desire to become superintendent of schools was rekindled first as a tiny spark and then as I learned more about the wonderful opportunity there, as a clear and consuming flame.”
He added, “Amity is a school district poised for greatness, and I believe I can make a contribution to their future progress.”
Brady said “a major factor in any decision involving one’s livelihood is economic considerations.
“While Westport has been exceedingly fair, the salary and benefit package of this superintendency is something that may not come along for me again.
“While the timing of my move may not be ideal for Westport, it could not come at a better time for my family as two of my children will return to full-time student status while my youngest continues her studies at Cornell.”
Brady said he is fully committed to working with his replacement to help with the transition and is confident that the teachers and administrative staff will continue to operate the school in an effective and efficient manner while a permanent replacement is sought.
Brady ended the letter expressing thanks to the school and the community.
“I am extremely grateful that I have had the opportunity to make a difference here in Westport,” he wrote. “I shall miss everyone in the school community and the many people with whom I have had come in contact throughout this wonderful town.”
– Used to be a big Brady fan. Now I hope that Amity doesn’t embark on a huge construction or rebuilding program. If so, Brady will probably leave them right in the middle – because of his longtime desire to do something else.