Nantucket Elementary School Names New Principal

Foxborough-area elementary school principal Michael Stanton has been hired as the next Nantucket Elementary School principal, following the retirement of former principal Kimberly Kubisch.

“Throughout this search, our priority was to find an exceptional leader who aligns with the values, instructional priorities, and community spirit of NES,” Superintendent Elizabeth Hallett wrote in a message to NES parents. “Following a comprehensive review of extensive feedback from staff, parents, and other stakeholders, it became clear that Mike [Stanton] is the best fit to lead NES forward. He is fully aware of the very big shoes he will have to fill as our beloved principal Kim Kubisch retires, but he is ready for the challenge and feels energized by the opportunity to join our dedicated team.”

Stanton currently serves as the principal of the Charles G. Taylor Elementary School in Foxborough, and has also been the principal of the Vincent M. Igo Elementary School and Boyden Elementary School. He will assume his new role on July 1st.

Stanton graduated from Boston College and worked in finance before transitioning to a career in education. He currently lives in Norfolk, Massachusetts. He has two children.

“Throughout his career, Michael has remained deeply committed to creating school communities where children feel safe, valued, and truly known,” a biographical statement distributed by the Nantucket Public Schools reads in part. “He has led efforts to strengthen instruction through data-informed practices, collaborative professional learning, and systems of support that address both academic and social-emotional needs. At the same time, he has expanded opportunities for inclusion, student leadership, and community connection so that every child feels a sense of belonging. His schools have experienced sustained growth and earned state and national recognition, including multiple Massachusetts DESE School of Recognition honors and designation as a National Blue Ribbon School for Exemplary High Performance. As a classroom teacher, he was honored with the Milken National Educator Award.”

Kubisch had served as NES principal for the past 15 years.

“Being a part of your children’s lives and watching them grow, learn, and discover their potential has been the greatest honor of my professional career. There is a unique magic and warmth in the halls of our school—a spark fueled by the curiosity of our amazing students and the tireless dedication of our phenomenal staff. Every day, I have been inspired by the kindness, resilience, and joy that our ‘littles’ bring into this building,” Kubisch wrote in a statement to parents in April. “We are truly blessed to live in such a wonderful island community. The support you show for our school and the way we look out for one another is something I have never taken for granted. Thank you for trusting me with your children and for being such vital partners in their education.”