Algonquin job extends Mead's varied career.

Byline: Sandy Quadros Bowles

NORTHBORO - Thomas Mead brings a depth of experience to his new job as Algonquin Regional High School principal that extends well beyond the school halls.

"I'm the poster child for change," he said.

He served as a U.S. Navy officer after graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.

From there he spent about a decade in corporate America, including Digital Equipment Corp. and Raytheon.

Then he transitioned to education after realizing that his corporate work was not making a difference in the world.

"I was contributing to my bottom line," said Mr. Mead, 56. "I was working for my wife, son and daughter, but this was not terribly satisfying work in the sense of giving back."

The Sudbury resident began teaching adult education students in Lawrence. These students were "enthusiastic and excited to learn," which led to a "very inspirational" experience.

Through Digital Equipment Corp's Engineers into Education program, he began his teaching career at Greater Lawrence Technical School in Andover, where he taught math and science for four years. He then taught math at Andover High School for four years before working as assistant principal there for seven years.

When he heard about the Algonquin job, "it was irresistible. I jumped at it."

His hopes his career changes will show his students that jobs may change, but the value of a good education never fades.

Each of his jobs taught him lessons he shares with students. Through the military, he answered "a call to duty" and explored the world.

"There's a great big world out there and they should consider exploring it, getting out and doing things," he said.

Corporate America helped hone his sense of discipline, teamwork and ability to work efficiently, all of which he brings to his educational roles. Mr. Mead said it developed "my sense of how we can maximize the resources we have. There are a lot of opportunities in education to be more efficient, to be more effective."

Mr. Mead also hopes to inspire Algonquin students to continue their community service efforts as a way of thanking the community that funds them and approved the project to expand and renovate the school.

"It's important to give back," he said. "The idea of giving back to their community is going to resonate."

The school year started July 1 for Mr. Mead as he replaced Edward Gallagher, whose contract was not renewed. Mr. Mead used the slower summer pace to meet his staff, establish a line of communication and foster a sense of trust.

Mr. Mead praised Mr. Gallagher for helping Algonquin earn its reputation as one of the state's best high schools. He said he hopes to make a "fresh start" and said the school is "well-poised to perform at an even higher level than it has, which is impressive in its own right."

"The people I have met have been extremely professional," he said. "Even during the dog days of summer, that has been very apparent."

To develop a crucial bond, he hosted an off-site retreat with department chairman and others who report directly to him.

"It's good to have the time in the summer," he said.

When the "busy, dicey, unpredictable" school year begins, anything can happen, he said. This year, for example, concerns about swine flu could raise issues, he said.

He hopes the school community can "be resilient," he said. Whatever happens, "it's good to know we've established a rapport and a communication."

ART: PHOTO

PHOTOG: ED COLLIER

CUTLINE: New Principal Thomas Mead of Algonquin Regional High School.