View the Peabody HandbookCity Government
School Committee & Superintendent
The Superintendent
Dr. Josh Vadala
Dr. Josh Vadala serves as Superintendent of the Peabody Public Schools, leading a district of roughly 5,800 students across 11 schools, from eight elementary schools through the J. Henry Higgins Middle School and Peabody Veterans Memorial High School. The Superintendent is the district’s chief executive, hired by and reporting to the School Committee.
| Role | Superintendent of Schools |
|---|---|
| District office | 27 Lowell Street, Peabody, MA 01960 |
| Phone | 978-536-6500 |
| High school | Peabody Veterans Memorial High School, 485 Lowell Street |
| Website | peabody.k12.ma.us |
The School Committee
Peabody’s School Committee has seven members: the Mayor, who chairs it ex-officio, and six members elected city-wide to staggered four-year terms. The Committee sets district policy, adopts the school budget, and hires and evaluates the Superintendent.
Edward A. Bettencourt Jr.
Joseph Amico
Brandi Carpenter
David McGeney
Beverley Griffin Dunne
Suzanne Cox
Pamela Milman
Membership reflects the November 2025 election; for the current roster and contacts, see peabody.k12.ma.us.
The District at a Glance
- Enrollment: about 5,800 students, PreK–12.
- Schools: 11, eight elementary, one middle, and Peabody Veterans Memorial High School.
- Diversity: roughly 40% of students are students of color, and a growing share are multilingual learners.
- State data: DESE profile (code 02290000).
Meetings & Participation
- When: twice monthly; agendas posted on the city and district websites.
- Public comment: residents may address the Committee, check the agenda for sign-up details.
- Watch: meetings air on Peabody Access Television (PATV) and are available on demand.
- Subcommittees: much detailed work happens in subcommittees on finance, policy, and curriculum.
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