New High School Principal and New Director of Student Services

The Regional School Committee approved the appointment of Marc Gomes as Principal of Amherst-Pelham Regional High School and Thomas A. Simon as Director of Student Services at their meeting on June 17.

Gomes was the Assistant Principal at Van Sickle Prep/Academy Middle School in the Springfield Public Schools. The announcement of his appointment states, “Dr. Gomes is an experienced educational leader with a strong track record in school improvement, instructional leadership, and student success. He is passionate about building relationships, advancing academic excellence, and ensuring equitable opportunities for all students.” He will replace Talib Sadiq who is stepping down on June 30 to become a guidance counselor in the Amherst elementary schools. Sadiq has been the high school principal since 2020. Gomes appointment is effective July 1, 2026.

Gomes was chosen over Springfield educators Zachary T. Verriden and Jose Carlos Rubio after a question-and-answer forum on May 28 and meetings with school staff and administrators the prior week. Verriden is the head of school at The Academy Hill School and Rubio is the school administrator of special education for the Springfield Empowerment Zone Partnership.

Simon has been Director of Student Support Services in the North Adams Public Schools since 2016. He is a graduate of Pittsfield High School and Berkshire Community College in Pittsfield. He earned bachelor’s degrees from Westfield State University in liberal studies/special education and in business administration. He later earned his master’s degree in education from Cambridge College. Superintendent E. Xiomara Herman (Dr. Xi) said, “I am pleased to recommend the appointment of Thomas A. Simon to the position of Director of Student Services for the Amherst, Pelham, and Amherst-Pelham Regional School Districts, effective June 22, 2026. Mr. Simon brings more than 25 years of experience in public education and a distinguished record of leadership in special education, student support services, and school administration. Throughout his career, he has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to ensuring that all students have access to the academic, social, emotional, and behavioral supports necessary for success.”

Simon will take over from interim Director JoAnn Smith. The Student Services Department is responsible for oversight of special education, health services, and early childhood education.  The Student Services personnel work collaboratively with school-based leaders and educational directors to meet the needs of all students, Preschool through Grade 12 (up to age 22).