Council Honors Retiring Superintendent Dr. Kurzberg

Twenty-two years ago this month Dr. Peter Kurzberg joined the Braintree Public Schools as superintendent. His retirement this June is fast approaching, but not before colleagues and fellow Braintree residents have had a chance to thank him for his service.

Town Clerk Joe Powers was among those on the School Committee at the time that voted for Dr. Kurzberg to lead the district. When the decision was made, Powers said he told a reporter why he stood out among the candidates.

"He has a burning desire, a fire and passion for education," Powers said. "That passion has never waned."

Town officials, including members of the Town Council and Mayor Joseph Sullivan, honored Dr. Kurzberg Tuesday night during Town Meeting and the fiscal 2014 budget vote. Last Wednesday night, the superintendent's career was celebrated with a retirement party at Granite Links Golf Club in Quincy.

The sixth annual Town Meeting was dedicated to Dr. Kurzberg "for his 22 years of dedicated service to the children of Braintree."

"I'm sure this won't be the last we see you," Councilor Tom Bowes said, noting Dr. Kurzberg's dedication to the special needs community and the Braintree Rotary Club.

"Thank you for your integrity, your professionalism and your stewardship," Paul "Dan" Clifford said.

Said Council President Charles Kokoros, "A lot of people think you're a quiet guy, but you're really a funny guy, you've got a great sense of humor."

"Your committment to the town went far beyond your job description," Kokoros added.

Assistant Superintendent Maureen Murray will take over the position in July.

The superintendent and his wife Karen Kurzberg live in Braintree and have no plans to leave, Dr. Kurzberg said. He added that he does not know yet what he will do in retirement, but that his family will continue to contribute to the town.

"From one retiree to another – it's never easy leaving a job you love and the people you love working with," Leland Dingee said.