On Aug. 1, Branford Public Schools Superintendent Hamlet M. Hernandez announced his retirement at the conclusion of the 2022 – 2023 school year.

Hernandez commented on how quickly time moves and that he was ready, after four decades of service to his country and community, to experience the butterflies associated with new experiences.

In his letter he thanked the staff and Board, past and present, for their support.

“I am honored to have journeyed for the past 12 years with such devoted and unrelenting professionals committed to excellence for all.”

Hernandez took the helm of the Branford school system in July of 2010 after a decorated career as a Marine Officer and more than a decade of leadership in the Hamden Public Schools.

Since that time, he has instilled a level of fiscal responsibility and control that has resulted in school budgets that supported the district’s students and their emerging, and at times, changing needs.

During his tenure, the district has developed new standards-aligned curriculum in all core subject areas that is supported by a robust system for professional learning and growth, including a comprehensive instructional coach model for certified staff.

As the district’s school population has grown more diverse, Hernandez has overseen the expansion of supports for English Learners and increased focus on equity and cultural responsiveness to meet the needs of all students, regardless of income, race, ethnicity, gender identity, or other demographic characteristics.

Under his leadership, the town and district embarked on a major renovation of Walsh Intermediate School including an entirely new academic wing, and more recently, an ongoing collaboration with the Town to install solar panels on two elementary schools.

Hernandez is entering his thirteenth and final year as the District’s superintendent.

When asked what he planned to do next, Hernandez replied, “I have my university teaching and other opportunities available, but my top priorities are time with my family. I may finally be able to convince my wife it’s time for a new puppy!”