Warwick announces new superintendent

PHILIP THORNTON has been named the new Warwick school superintendent. He currently is Cumberland's superintendent of schools. / COURTESY CUMBERLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT
PHILIP THORNTON has been named the new Warwick school superintendent. He currently is Cumberland's superintendent of schools. / COURTESY CUMBERLAND SCHOOL DISTRICT

(Updated 1:08 p.m.)
WARWICK – The Warwick school district has hired Philip D. Thornton, Cumberland’s superintendent of schools, to lead its public school system.
The Warwick School Committee hired Thornton Wednesday night, the district said in a press release.
Before his four years of service in Cumberland, Thornton also was a school superintendent in North Kingstown. Prior to that he was a school administrator and history teacher. He earned a bachelor’s degree in American studies at Colby College, a master’s in education degree at Providence College (majoring in educational administration) and a doctor of education degree from Johnson & Wales University.
Jennifer Ahearn, the committee’s chairperson, called Thornton “dynamic.”
“He is an experienced and skilled educator who will take this district to new heights and help give our children the type of education we all want them to receive,” she said in a statement. “We think everyone – parents, students, teachers, and other city residents – will see his creativity and exceptional ability to bring us together in a common cause and have a great new beginning for the district.”
Thornton said he will make the transition to Warwick as soon as possible.
“I can’t wait to get started in Warwick,” Thornton said. “Last week I had the opportunity to tour several schools in the district and meet students, teachers and administrators. I am very impressed by what I saw. The opportunity and potential is enormous in Warwick. I am honored to lead this district.”
Thornton replaces William Holland, who has served as interim superintendent since July. He was among 23 applicants for the position.

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