The Board of Directors of RSU 12 announces the hiring of Howard Tuttle as its next superintendent, effective July 1, 2013, with an initial contract term of two years.

The RSU 12 Search Committee began its work in June 2012, soliciting input and identifying the qualities it sought in the next superintendent. The committee received and reviewed 15 applications and chose to interview four candidates.

Of the four, Tuttle stood out. He has nine years of teaching experience and nine years of administrative experience.  His approach, which is student-centered, improves upon curriculum, instruction, and assessment with an awareness of the effect on student achievement.  

He said he knows he cannot lead alone and gathers pertinent input and feedback from the school community to inform his decisions.

Tuttle holds a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Educational Leadership and is working toward his Doctorate in Educational Leadership. He comes to RSU 12 from MSAD 11, where he has worked as principal of the Laura E. Richards School, and, for the last five years, as the MSAD 11 Director of Curriculum and Instruction.  

Prior to his work in MSAD 11, he worked for MSAD 75 as a teacher, a mathematics specialist/coach, and a Federal Grants Coordinator.  He has also taught in Concord, Mass., and New Haven, Conn.  

He currently serves as the president of the Maine Curriculum Leader’s Association.

Tuttle’s references are outstanding.  A principal stated, “One of Howie’s many strengths is that he is able to see the whole picture, yet still focus on the important and necessary details needed to accomplish the goal.”  

A board member who has worked for many years with Tuttle observed that he has great attention to detail, excellent professional relationships, and his work with the Board is respectful, prepared and engaging.  The RSU 12 Board is confident it has found an excellent leader in Tuttle. Tuttle will begin official employment on July 1, 2013, but will become familiar with RSU 12 in the intervening months.