Scott Hurwitz hired to lead the school system: Hurwitz replaces Superintendent Alan B. Bookman who is retiring after 22 years

By Peter Marteka

Editor

Submitted Photos

Years ago, board of education Chairman Douglas C. Foyle and his wife had a parent teacher conference with then sixth-grade teacher Scott A. Hurwitz and walked out afterward impressed by the young educator.

“We looked at each other,” Foyle recalled, “and we had a short conversation about then Mr. Hurwitz and we were like, ‘Wow, this guy’s going places.’ And I said, ‘Yeah, he’s got administration written all over him.’”

Scott Hurwitz hired to lead the school system

That place Hurwitz is going is the top of Glastonbury’s school system as the board of education unanimously voted the now Dr. Hurwitz to replace Superintendent Alan B. Bookman, who is retiring after 22 years at the helm. Hurwitz, who currently serves as assistant superintendent, will officially become superintendent July 1.

“I am more than honored and excited to serve as the next superintendent,” he said. “I’m grateful for your confidence to move forward and continue the great work we’re doing here in Glastonbury...I think something that’s most exciting about this partnership that’s coming is our shared commitment in the community of Glastonbury being an anchor of what we're going to do moving forward.

“I’m so excited to share that passion,” he added. “I’ve learned so much and grown so much through the team that we have and so anything that you shared relating to a success that I’ve had is the result of a strong team working together.”

Super Grad – Incoming Superintendent Scott A. Hurwitz waves to someone while marching into commencement ceremonies with retiring Superintendent Alan B. Bookman. (Marteka)

The board undertook a comprehensive search process and recruited a talented pool of candidates. The search was conducted in partnership with CABE search services consultant Mary Broderick. The process included extensive community engagement from focus groups to surveys to develop a leadership profile that guided the search and selection.

Board vice-chairman Julie Thompson, who chaired the hiring committee, said they had a difficult task to find someone with innovative leadership, a collaborative approach to issues and transparency in communications. She said focus groups made up of parents, students, staff, teachers and elected officials were key to finding the right person.

Thompson said Hurwitz “believes in the potential of every student. Perhaps most importantly, Dr. Hurwitz elevates others. He knows how to draw out the best in people.”

“Known to his colleagues to be in inspirational leader, his knowledge, commitment to education, diverse experience and ability to lead in an inclusive manner is exactly what we need for the future,” she said. “We are confident under his leadership...our students will thrive; our educators will know that they are valued and our community will continue to be proud of the excellence we strive to attain every day for every student.”

Board member Kali Cavanaugh said what really stood out for her was “keeping our children at the heart of every decision” and “serving as a true champion for student growth and education.”

“He brings absolute integrity and a steadfast commitment to our town, and he has already captured the confidence and widespread support of many of his colleagues across out district,” she said.

“Wherever Scott has gone professionally, people have recognized his immense talent, invested in him and recommended he be elevated in this role,” she added. “But beyond that stellar career path, Scott is one of us. He is a fellow Glastonbury resident, a dedicated neighbor and a proud GPS parent with children in our schools. He truly lives our mission every single day. I have total confidence he will be an exceptional leader who will protect our district’s strong legacy while guiding us toward an ever brighter future.”

Hurwitz’s connection to Glastonbury spans nearly two decades. He has served the district in numerous roles, including student intern, student teacher, long-term substitute, coach, club advisor, classroom teacher, assistant principal, acting principal, and assistant superintendent.

“Everything always came back to a simple question: What is best for the students? Every answer, every example, every part of his vision and reflection always came back to them,” board member Jennifer Faust said. “And as a parent, that deeply matters. He understands where we’ve been, where we are going and how to get us there. He’s good at building strong relationships through listening, collaboration and trust.”

Hurwitz currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of Administration and Personnel where he has helped lead districtwide initiatives focused on staff recruitment and retention, operational alignment, and long-range facilities planning.

“The best indication of how someone will lead is how they have led,” board member Alison Couture said. “Scott’s track record as an assistant superintendent is the evidence base by which our confidence is built. I’m genuinely energized by what’s ahead. The leadership vision and impact Dr. Hurwitz will bring to the students, staff and community is exactly what this district needs.”

Prior to returning to Glastonbury in 2024, Hurwitz spent six years in Farmington Public Schools serving as Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations, principal of Farmington High School, and principal of Irving A. Robbins Middle School. Throughout his career, Hurwitz has demonstrated expertise in strategic planning, budget development, operations, curriculum, facilities planning, human resources, and school leadership.

In Farmington, he oversaw a $150 million high school construction project, supported elementary redistricting efforts, managed district operations and budgeting, and partnered with the board of education on comprehensive policy revisions.

The Glastonbury board noted that at a time when several new school leaders will be joining the district, Hurwitz brings a valuable balance of institutional knowledge and openness to new ideas, helping ensure both continuity and innovation across the school system.

Hurwitz emphasized that relationships, open communication, and aligned systems are central to his leadership philosophy. He wants to sustain and strengthen Glastonbury Public Schools’ reputation as an outstanding district where every student is challenged, supported, and empowered to thrive.

He noted he’s “an active listener who values different perspectives and the power of collaboration.” He noted the district will “continue fostering learning environments that value kindness, curiosity, wellness, and high achievement for every student.”

“My commitment is very simple,” he said. “We are going to keep students at the center of our decision-making. We’re going to continue to be guided by our strategic plan with a clear direction so students can prosper and we’re going to rely on communication and a community coming together on behalf of all kids. And when we do those things, great things can happen.

Hurwitz thanked his parents for where he is today.

“They instilled the importance of a strong work ethic, operating with integrity and a deep commitment for the community in which you live,” he said.

Hurwitz replaces Superintendent Alan B. Bookman who is retiring after 22 years

Hurwitz earned his Doctor of Education in educational leadership from the University of Connecticut, where his dissertation examined school leadership and anti-bullying policy implementation. He also holds superintendent and school business administrator certifications in Connecticut, as well as a Master of Education from Teachers College at Columbia University and a Master of Arts and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Connecticut.

In addition to his administrative leadership, Hurwitz serves as an adjunct professor for the University of Connecticut and Quinnipiac University, teaching courses in educational leadership, public school finance, and teacher leadership. He is an active contributor to professional organizations and educational leadership development across Connecticut and New England.

“You try not to be sad because we are losing a legend,” board member David Peniston said. “It does my heart good when you know you are replacing a legend with an upcoming legend.”

Among his many professional honors, Dr. Hurwitz received the University of Connecticut Neag School of Education Outstanding School Administrator Award in 2024.

“While we will all miss Dr. Bookman and celebrate the legacy and impact that he has had, we will continue to grow and continue to prosper here in Glastonbury. A successful district requires everyone to be all in. I’m excited to be a part of that.” Hurwitz said. GL