Sunita Williams Elementary School will have a new principal beginning July 1, though she is anything but new to Needham schools. Caren Firger, who accepted the position in April, began her tenure in the district nearly 28 years ago.
Firger will replace Kiana Brunson, who has served as Sunita Williams principal since July 2022.
Firger started as a Mitchell Elementary teacher, taught at Broadmeadow Elementary School for 18 years, then took her current position as assistant principal at Newman Elementary School. She is also the current president of the Needham Education Association, which represents all unionized Needham Public Schools employees. As a principal, she will leave her union position, wrapping up her sixth year as its president in June.
“I was very excited to apply for this role,” said Firger. “I felt ready to take on the big role of principal, and really excited to do that in Needham.” She said she grew up, professionally speaking, in the town and has spent nearly three decades building relationships, working on committees, and helping to shape the experience of students and staff in the Needham Public Schools.
Firger was one of two finalists along with a sitting elementary school principal from Belmont. It was her deep knowledge of the district and her keen understanding of what students need at the elementary level that set her apart, said Superintendent Dan Gutekanst. But he said she doesn’t rest on her laurels.
“She’s constantly trying to ask questions, learn, explore so she can stay ahead,” he said. “She’s a very strong listener. She is patient, calm, and at the same time she’s present here, there and everywhere.” He said her ability to be patient and calm but also react quickly to issues that arise is an unusual gift in a school leader.
Gutekanst also praised Firger’s leadership both as assistant principal as well as in the NEA, and said her focus is always the wellbeing of students and staff.
School Committee Chair Michael O’Brien said he knew firsthand how well respected Firger is by her colleagues, administrators, teachers and families alike. “In her interview process when families were able to speak on behalf of Caren, she had a full slate of parents who were able to offer an informative perspective on her leadership and background that certainly was helpful in the decision-making process.” He said he is excited for her to step into this new role. “Caren just has such a level head to walk in and lead Sunita Williams.”
Firger said her first order of business will be to get to know the Sunita community and spend time listening and talking to people to understand what is important to them moving forward. She said the Sunita students, families and staff have a lot of experience to offer, and she hopes to be able to make a positive impact when she takes the helm in July.
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