HARTFORD — The Hartford Board of Education unanimously appointed Dr. Andraé Townsel as the new superintendent of Hartford Public Schools on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, following a comprehensive selection process. The decision is pivotal for one of Connecticut’s largest school districts as it addresses ongoing financial and educational challenges.
The selection process involved a nationwide search that reviewed 40 applicants, incorporated stakeholder input, and included thorough interviews of top candidates, according to the board. Townsel, currently the superintendent of Calvert County Public Schools in Maryland, will succeed Dr. Leslie Torres-Rodriguez, who has led the district since December 2017 and is set to depart on August 29, 2025.
Leadership Transition
Townsel’s appointment follows a meticulous process designed to identify a leader capable of addressing Hartford’s challenges. The board’s unanimous vote reflects confidence in his ability to guide the district forward. His official start date is pending, but he is expected to engage with the community through town halls and stakeholder meetings in the weeks leading up to the new school year to prepare for his role.
Townsel’s Background and Achievements
Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Townsel attended Cass Technical High School and earned his bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from Howard University on a football scholarship. His career spans various educational roles, from teacher to coach, culminating in his position as superintendent of Calvert County Public Schools since July 1, 2022, where he was the first African American in the role.
During his tenure in Calvert County, Townsel significantly improved the district’s standing, elevating it to the fourth-best in Maryland through strategic leadership and a focus on academic excellence. His efforts were recognized when he was voted President-Elect of the Public School Superintendents’ Association of Maryland, highlighting his influence in educational leadership. Townsel also secured raises for all educators in the district during his first year, demonstrating his commitment to supporting staff. Additionally, he was selected for the Leadership Maryland Executive Program’s Class of 2024, recognizing his contributions to addressing state-wide issues in education and other sectors.
Before Calvert County, Townsel served as superintendent of Benton Harbor Area Schools in Michigan, where he was evaluated as “highly effective” by the school board.. His motto, “SET THE BAR. MEET THE BAR. EXCEED THE BAR. RAISE THE BAR!” reflects his commitment to continuous improvement and high standards, which he instilled in students and staff.
Community and Financial Context
Hartford Public Schools serves approximately 16,000 students from pre-K through high school across 40 schools, making it one of Connecticut’s largest school districts. The district is grappling with a projected $6.7 million budget deficit for the upcoming fiscal year, despite securing additional funding, including a $3 million commitment announced in May 2025. To address the shortfall, the district has eliminated as many as 200 teaching and other positions, with further cuts possible.
Community members have outlined clear expectations for the new superintendent. Parents Angelika Matics and Milly Arciniegas emphasized the need for transparency, an open-door policy, and collaboration with non-profits to support the district’s goals. These priorities align with Townsel’s track record of community engagement, as demonstrated in Benton Harbor, where he was praised for making students his top priority.
Leadership in Calvert County
Significant achievements marked Townsel’s tenure in Calvert County. Appointed as the first African American superintendent in the district’s history on July 1, 2022, he focused on enhancing educational outcomes and community engagement. His leadership led to measurable improvements, with the district achieving a high ranking in Maryland’s educational landscape. Townsel’s ability to secure raises for educators in his first year underscores his financial acumen and commitment to staff welfare. His selection for the Leadership Maryland Executive Program further highlights his influence in addressing critical issues in education.
Community Expectations and Next Steps
Hartford Public Schools Board Chairperson Jennifer Hockenhull expressed confidence in Townsel’s ability to lead, stating, “The Board is incredibly excited to welcome Dr. Andraé Townsel as our new Superintendent. We were looking for a seasoned leader, and Dr. Townsel brings a wealth of experience from districts similar to ours, incredible energy, and a clear commitment to championing our district’s future”.
Townsel shared his enthusiasm for the role, saying, “I am honored and excited to serve as the next Superintendent of Hartford Public Schools. This is an incredible opportunity to work collaboratively with students, families, educators, and community partners who are deeply invested in the success of our schools. Together, we will enhance the student experience and raise achievement in academics, athletics, and the arts across the district. I look forward to building on Hartford’s rich legacy and setting a bold vision for our shared future”.
Townsel’s immediate plans include engaging with the Hartford community through town halls and stakeholder meetings to prepare for the new school year. He will focus on stabilizing the district’s finances, fostering academic excellence, and building on the foundation laid by his predecessor. His recognition in the Leadership Maryland Executive Program’s Class of 2024 underscores his potential to address these issues effectively.
The appointment comes at a critical time for Hartford Public Schools, which has faced challenges in maintaining educational quality amid budget constraints. Townsel’s experience in urban education, financial management, and community engagement positions him to lead the district toward a stable and prosperous future.
