Dr. Barbara Malkas has served as an educator for over 36 years in the roles of science teacher, school administrator, district administrator, deputy superintendent, and superintendent. In each of her districts and roles, she has strived to improve the quality of education for all students, particularly those representing underserved populations. Her own experiences in education contribute to her belief that education is the key to lifelong satisfaction and meaning.
Barbara Malkas holds a Bachelor of Sciences in Chemistry from St. Joseph’s College of Brooklyn, New York, a Master of Science degree in Science Education from St. John’s University, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from the Sage Colleges of Albany.
Dr. Malkas’ doctoral research studied the impact of collaboration as a systemic reform initiative in large urban districts. Her research found that shared leadership and mutual accountability can lead organizations to increased clarity, coherence, and professional growth.
In addition to her professional responsibilities, Dr. Malkas is the board president of the Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition. This nonprofit organization is dedicated to preventing environmental causes of breast cancer through education, research advocacy and changes to public policy. Through her involvement with this organization the Let’s Talk Prevention: Actions You Can Take environmental education program was designed with four high school modules, and most recently middle and elementary modules, that are free to educators.
Dr. Malkas is also a 500 hour certified yoga instructor in the Breathe for Change facilitator training program for educators which she has brought to her district supporting mindfulness and mindful movement in the classroom as a universal social and emotional learning strategy. Recently, her district has engaged with Breathe for Change as a research site identifying the positive outcomes for students and staff when these instructional strategies are taught, used, and supported.
Dr. Malkas resides in Clarksburg, MA with her husband, a retired educator, with their two rescue dogs and cat. She is the proud parent of two gainfully employed young adults, her daughter is a Lieutenant Commander and Aviator for the United State Coast Guard and her son is a video game developer for Bungee.
Past AASA Massachusetts Superintendent of the Year Winners:
2023 Massachusetts Superintendent of the Year: Dr. Dianne Kelly
2021 Massachusetts Superintendent of the Year: Dr. Robert Baldwin
About the Award:
The Superintendent of the Year program, sponsored by First Student and AASA, pays tribute to the talent and vision of the men and women who lead the nation’s public schools.
State-level winners are selected on the following criteria:
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- Leadership for Learning
- Communication
- Professionalism
- Community Involvement