EASTHAMPTON — The city’s schools superintendent, Allison LeClair, announced Wednesday her intention to retire at the end of the school year.

LeClair, who has been in the education field for 35 years, said in a letter addressed to members of the School Committee that while she’s had some amazing experiences throughout her career, nothing tops her time in Easthampton.

“When I first came to Easthampton in July of 2018, we were working hard to address challenges related to diversity and equity. I am proud to say the district immersed itself in this work, with staff taking an active role in gaining knowledge and understanding the issues,” she wrote. “We came out in agreement with the Attorney General’s office in a much stronger, more empathetic place. Since then, we have continued to work on equity issues, committing ourselves to this important work for the long term.”

LeClair replaced Nancy Follansbee, who retired in 2018 after eight years as superintendent and a collective 26 years in the district with various positions, including grants manager, reading specialist and literacy coordinator.

Prior to Easthampton, LeClair served as the assistant superintendent of Agawam public schools since 2012.

Among the accomplishments she was particularly proud of, LeClair chalked up the design and construction of the new $109 million Mountain View School — which houses pre-kindergarten through eighth grade students and consolidated the three former elementary schools, Maple, Center and Pepin, with the now demolished White Brook Middle School — amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Mayor Nicole LaChapelle said that LeClair navigated the school department through the pandemic and was able to adapt with “notable determination to deliver a new school and improved student outcomes.”

“We struggled, indeed, but every day I knew that everyone was doing the absolute best they could — and I could not ask for anything more,” LeClair wrote. “I am leaving knowing that the district is in a good place, with great faculty, staff, administration, and wonderful facilities.”

Emily Thurlow can be reached at ethurlow@gazettenet.com.]]>