DR. RONALD JOSEPH FITZGERALD

Dr. Fitzgerald was one of the most influential people I ever worked for. As part of the biotechnology re-employment program, I came in from biotech labs and manufacturing, as well as university academia-- learning his methods of fostering student excellence via Howard Gardner's seven intelligences upended the world view both of demoralized students and teachers used to A grades and high IQs. He told us, the student doesn't fail, you do. Find the right portal to engage them: so in teaching...

Before he became the Amherst schools superintendent (at a young age), Ron Fitzgerald taught eighth grade science at Amherst's junior high school. I was one of his students. Not only did he teach science enthusiastically, he crusaded -- in a way that might not be allowed today -- against cigarette smoking and its ill effects on health. Lesson learned, Mr. Fitzgerald, and thanks. Allen Torrey, Chapel Hill, NC

Dr. Fitzgerald was a valued colleague, role model, and visionary for what CVTE could and should be for all schools and all students. He inspired a team of us at FCTS in Turners Falls - to take on challenging work in 'integration of academics and vocational learning'. When we visited Minuteman, he gave us generously of his time, and his staff's time, and we left with much valuable insight into how to positively effect school change at every level. An inspirational individual!

During my years at MM (1974-2002), I enjoyed the many innovations Dr. Fitzgerald brought to the school, including expansion of the district to sixteen towns. As a faculty, we always had the latest educational theories and practical applications to use in our classrooms. On a personal note, he always made sure I had summer employment as he knew I was a single mother of a young child. Adrienne was always made to feel a part of the MM community, including a job when she was older. In...

I was saddened to hear of Dr. Fitzgerald´s passing and I wanted to add my condolences to his family and friends. I worked at Minuteman Tech from 1985-1996 and in that time, Dr. Fitzgerald was both a role model and superintendent. His belief that all students could thrive was organic to his academic outlook. He did not accept defeat for any student´s capacity to learn and he loved challenging the status quo. Dr. Fitzgerald embraced new educational research and methodologies and...

Requiescat in Pace!

On behalf of the Amherst-Pelham Regional Schools, please accept our deepest condolences. Dr. Fitzgerald's service to the children of our Region was tremendous, and many lives were enriched by his dedication and love of education. Sincerely, Michael Morris, Superintendent of Schools

Our memories of Dr. Fitzgerald was that of great Superintendent and educational visionary. His tireless efforts to improve the quality of Vocational Technical Education at Minuteman, throughout Massachusetts and the country was recognized and appreciated by many.. but most importantly by the parents and students which he served. He was our mentor and counselor. He gave us the skills, trust and knowledge to make our educational career at Minuteman both rewarding and meaningful. He impacted...