LENOX — Lenox Public Schools is entering a period of leadership change, with Superintendent William Collins announcing that high school Principal Jeremiah Ames will succeed Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations Melissa Falkowski when she retires next summer.
In an email to the school community, Collins noted that Ames was selected following a comprehensive search process and the recommendation of two interview committees.
The principal opening that will be created by Ames' promotion will be advertised through a national search starting in January.
A search committee, including representatives of students and parents, will be formed in December, Collins said, “to ensure we identify the ‘just right’ successor” to Ames.
Asked what attracted him to the finance post, Ames told The Eagle that “the principal at [the middle and high school] does a lot in the realm of budget, finance and human resources. The two roles are different, but there is quite a bit of overlap. I’m looking forward to pulling the roles into closer alignment and hope to be in the schools as much as possible."
He explained that the transition path “gives us nearly seven months to work with our students, families and staff to select the next principal of LMMHS. It gives me even more time to work with Melissa Falkowski through our transition.”
As for the search for his successor, Ames said he hopes the school can continue the momentum they've established recently in building up the school's culture of belonging.
"Finding a school leader committed to this work — and to supporting staff and students as they work in this direction — will be one of the most important things we do as a school community this year," Ames said.
Falkowski joined the Lenox school district in November 2019, having served in similar posts at the Central Berkshire Regional School District since 2012. She will retire next September after working with Ames in the transition.
“Melissa's thoughtful stewardship and deep institutional knowledge have served Lenox Public Schools exceptionally well,” Collins said. “Her steady fiscal leadership has been invaluable, and I am both personally and professionally grateful for her service.”
The fall 2026 leadership changes also include Morris Elementary School Principal Brenda Kelley’s full-time transition to director of curriculum, instruction and assessment. Holly Soules, currently assistant principal, will succeed Kelley at Morris.
Collins said the district will have a strong "homegrown" district administrative team heading into the 2026–2027 school year.
In a separate announcement last week, Collins, Ames and Kelley noted that U.S. News & World Report’s annual school rankings listed Lenox Memorial Middle School as 115 out of 1,064 Massachusetts middle schools. Morris was ranked 122 out of 1,542 elementary schools statewide.
Schools are ranked on student performance on state assessments, how well they prepare students for future academic success and other key indicators.
“These rankings are a direct reflection of the dedication that our students and staff show every single day,” said Collins. “Our schools succeed because this community values education and because our educators and support staff give students the tools to thrive. I am proud of everyone who contributes to our learning environment and to the success of every child in Lenox.”