BPS Superintendent Chang Names Interim Boston Latin Headmaster

Photo via Mayor’s Office/Don Harney

Boston Public Schools Superintendent Tommy Chang has named Michael Contompasis, a former Boston Latin School headmaster and BPS superintendent, interim headmaster of the nation’s oldest public school, after Lynne Mooney Teta resigned amidst racial controversy.

Michael Contompasis graduated from BLS in 1957, and served as headmaster from 1976 to 1998. He later served as BPS chief operating officer before a brief stint as superintendent from 2005 to 2007. Chang also named longtime BPS educator Jerry Howland, a 1966 BLS graduate, as Contompasis’ associate headmaster.

“I have every confidence that Michael Contompasis and Jerry Howland have the deep experience, knowledge, and passion necessary to guide Boston Latin School through this transitional process,” Chang said in a statement. “Together, they will ensure that this historic institution both upholds its tradition of unparalleled academic excellence and serves as a model for a safe and welcoming school environment for all.”

Mayor Marty Walsh announced the appointment Tuesday afternoon, pledging a nationwide search for the school’s next headmaster. Contompasis, who was not present at City Hall for the announcement, could serve in this interim role until next March.

“This is about the kids. I don’t want to lose sight of that,” Walsh said.

Chang said he will name co-chairs of the BLS headmaster screening committee “in the coming weeks.”