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Kevin Higginbottom, who was named interim principal at Haverhill’s John Greenleaf Whittier School last year, now formally assumes the post.
Besides Higginbottom, Julio Perez was named interim principal of the Dr. Paul C. Nettle School by Haverhill school Superintendent Margaret Marotta. Perez, who currently serves as assistant principal at the school, is taking over from Nettle School Principal Eileen Doherty who is moving to Dr. Albert B. Consentino School.
Marotta said Higginbottom was selected following a hiring process involving school staff, union representatives and administrators from both Whittier School and central office.
“Out of a highly qualified pool of candidates, Mr. Higginbottom quickly distinguished himself. He advanced to a final round of interviews, where he completed a performance task analyzing JGW school data and outlining areas for improvement and next steps. His response was thoughtful and reflective, recognizing both the important progress made this year and the work still ahead,” she said in an email to families.
Marotta said Perez—known to many as “July”—has been “an integral part of the Nettle School community for the past 20 years.” She explained he has served as both a mathematics and social studies teacher and, for the past three years, as assistant principal. Perez is a graduate of Haverhill High School and has coached Haverhill Youth Baseball for more than 12 years and previously volunteered with both the Haverhill YMCA and the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Haverhill.
“His deep knowledge of the school, dedication to student success, and ability to build strong relationships have made him a trusted and respected leader,” Marotta wrote.