Superintendent Michael Cipolla

WESTFIELD — Westfield Academy and Central School District Superintendent Michael Cipolla hopes to leave behind a legacy of collaboration and student-centered decision making as he leaves to assume the position of Randolph Academy superintendent.

Cipolla, who has more than 20 years of experience in education, joined the administration of Westfield Academy and Central School in November 2019. During his time at WACS, he guided the district through the challenges of the COVID pandemic and spearheaded several initiatives, including setting the $23.5 million capital improvement project in motion.

“Promoting a collaborative culture where all voices — students, staff, families and community members — felt valued in shaping our vision . . . I hope I’ve inspired others to be creative and continually examine the needs of our students, now and for years to come,” Cipolla said.

When he first arrived at WACS, Cipolla said he knew the district had strong community ties, but nothing could have prepared him for what lay immediately ahead. “While I anticipated challenges common to any leadership transition, I could not have foreseen events like the COVID-19 pandemic, which tested all of us in unprecedented ways,” he said. “These experiences have deepened my respect for the resilience of our faculty, staff, students and community.”

Cipolla said he has always strived to have open relationships with faculty, staff, and students. “With administration, faculty and staff, I’ve worked to foster open communication and professional growth opportunities,” he said. “I’ve prioritized being visible and accessible to students, listening to their concerns, and celebrating their successes.”

Cipolla said he has also worked to maintain a strong working relationship with the board of education. “My relationship with the board has been one of collaboration and trust,” he said. “We’ve worked closely to navigate challenges and build a stronger district.”

Several board members also expressed this sentiment.

“I will miss working with Mike Cipolla,” said board president Wendy Dyment. “Mike’s collaborative approach to leadership helped foster a strong relationship with the board of education. He treats everyone with kindness and respect. We have developed into a cohesive team because he helps all of our personalities connect in a positive fashion.”

Board member Tom Tarpley said he is very sorry to see Cipolla leave WACS. “He is a man who cares deeply for all the students who attend WACS,” he said. “We are well positioned for years to come because of Mike’s vision for our school and I will be forever grateful for the excellent working relationship that our board has shared with him.”

When he announced he was leaving WACS, Cipolla said he experienced support, understanding and shared emotion from the faculty and the board alike. “There is a deep sense of investment in the work we’ve accomplished together, which makes leaving bittersweet,” he said.

Cipolla leaves WACS shortly after the capital improvement project was approved by voters. The project includes elements such as the athletic complex, which have been discussed for more than a decade.

“The capital improvement project represents years of vision and planning, and it’s exciting to see it moving forward,” he said. “I’ve made it a priority to ensure a smooth transition. This project is bigger than any one person – it’s about the future of WACS.”

Cipolla will assume the position of Superintendent of Randolph Academy Union Free School District on Feb. 1.