A life-long Rhode Islander, James Erinakes grew up in the community where he now serves as Superintendent of Schools for the Exeter-West Greenwich Regional School District in Rhode Island since 2012. His 30-year career in education began as a mathematics teacher at both the middle and high school levels in Coventry, Rhode Island. He went on to serve as a Mathematics Department Chairman at the high school and then served as Assistant Principal for the Knotty Oak Middle School. In 2007, he was appointed to the role of Assistant Superintendent for Student Services.
Mr. Erinakes received a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Mathematics Education from the University of Rhode Island, a Master of Arts in Teaching (Mathematics) degree from Providence College, a Master of Education degree in School Administration from Rhode Island College, and a Master of Education Degree in Special Education from Providence College.
Past AASA Rhode Island Superintendent of the Year Winners:
2020 Rhode Island Superintendent of the Year: Kathryn Crowley
2019 Rhode Island Superintendent of the Year: Philip Auger
About the Superintendent of the Year:
As a sponsor of the superintendent of the Year program, First Student wants to recognize these leaders in a special way this year, because of the Covid-19 pandemic and the disruption that has affected all education systems but also the innovative approaches that the superintendents and school districts addressed through radio, television, zoom and take-home packages. These superintendents are the very best in public education and are needed more than ever during this crisis.
About the Award:
The superintendent of the Year program, sponsored by First Student and AASA, The School superintendents Association, 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:
- Leadership for Learning
- Communication
- Professionalism
- Community Involvement