Superintendent Michael S. Nelson is pleased to announce Joshua Vanderquist as the new Assistant Principal of Rochester Memorial School.
Vanderquist officially began his new role on July 1, succeeding Charles West, who was recently named Principal of Center School in Mattapoisett.
Vanderquist joins the school system from the Union-Endicott Central School District in New York, where he served as assistant principal of two elementary schools since 2022.
He has experience leading Response to Intervention (RTI) and Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) initiatives, facilitating professional learning, supervising staff, coordinating enrichment programs, and partnering with families to support student success.
Before becoming assistant principal, Vanderquist served as a student success coordinator and spent several years as an elementary and secondary music educator and instructional leader.
Vanderquist earned a Certificate of Advanced Studies in educational leadership from Binghamton University, a Master of Arts in music education from Columbia University, and bachelor’s degrees in music education and vocal performance from Ithaca College. He holds New York certifications as both a School Building Leader and School District Leader and has applied for Massachusetts licensure through reciprocity.
“We are excited to welcome Josh to Rochester Memorial School and our school community,” said Superintendent Nelson. “Throughout the interview process, he demonstrated a collaborative leadership style, a strong commitment to supporting students and teachers and a genuine passion for elementary education. We are confident he will be a valuable addition to Rochester Memorial School.”
“I am honored to join Rochester Memorial School and look forward to getting to know our students, families and staff,” Vanderquist said. “I believe strong relationships are the foundation of a successful school community, and I am excited to work alongside our dedicated educators to support every child’s academic, social and emotional growth.”