New Bedford Public Schools Get Three New Principals

NEW BEDFORD — New Bedford elementary schools are getting three new principals for the next academic year, district officials announced this week.

Superintendent Thomas Anderson announced on Monday that Carney Academy, Ashley and DeValles Elementary Schools will all be getting new leadership.

The three new principals were introduced to district officials and others at a June 13 New Bedford School Committee meeting.

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Daniel Mckoy will start as the principal at Carney Academy on July 1, while Dr. Mario Pires will step into his role as DeValles Elementary principal on July 18.

Meanwhile Mark Souza begins as the principal at Ashley Elementary on July 1 as well.

"It is always exciting to welcome new team members into such important roles," Anderson noted.

Mckoy joins the district from Boston Public Schools, where he served in a number of different positions, including as school principal.

"My core belief is that all students no matter how they look or where they are from deserve educators that have high expectations in them," he said.

"I'm grateful today that I had educators in my life that represented these beliefs when I was a struggling student and my mission and dream is to be that representation for all of the children and families that I serve."

Pires also comes to New Bedford from Boston Public Schools, where he has served as Assistant Head of School for six years.

He has previously taught in New Bedford Public Schools, and was also a visiting lecturer at Bridgewater State University.

Pires said he is "excited to return home," adding "I look forward to leading as the Principal of the DeValles Elementary School and increasing access to educational opportunities so that all brilliant New Bedford scholars can shine.”

Souza previously served for four years as an Assistant Principal at Normandin Middle School.

He has also served as an Assistant Principal and an elementary school educator with Carver and New Bedford Public Schools.

“I am honored and excited for the opportunity to serve as Principal at Ashley School," Souza said.

"I look forward to working with our amazing students, staff, and community to continue to develop kind, curious, and thankful learners.”