by Jen Oemig

CHELMSFORD –Dianna Fulreader, who has been the principal at Chelmsford’s Center Elementary School since 2016, has called it a career, officially retiring on Oct. 3.

Fulreader announced her decision to retire in an email to colleagues earlier in the year, expressing her gratitude to all the staff and faculty at Center, as well as the administrative team at Chelmsford Public Schools.

“I truly cannot imagine a better place to conclude my career in educational leadership,” she shared. “It has truly been an honor to serve as your principal.”

Fulreader said the past eight years have brought both challenges and incredible moments of growth.

“Through it all, I’ve been continually inspired by the strength, commitment and kindness of this community,” she said. “The unwavering support of our staff and students—whether by volunteering at events, filling classrooms and auditoriums for school-wide celebrations, organizing fundraisers, or showing appreciation to our staff month after month—has made Center a very special place. I am proud of the school culture we’ve built together, and I will miss being part of this remarkable community.”

For Fulreader, making the decision to retire stems from a desire to prioritize time with her family and friends and to focus on her health.

“I’m also excited for a new adventure: trading my laptop for a tool belt as I help build our retirement home in Vermont,” she said.

After Fulreader made her announcement, assistant principal Donna Omobono was appointed as principal and a search for a new assistant principal commenced.

Omobono has been with the district for over 20 years.

She began her tenure in Chelmsford as a teacher, starting out with the Chelmsford Integrated Preschool (CHIPS) program before serving as a second-grade teacher at Harrington Elementary School.

In August, it was announced that Jennifer Hutchinson would become the assistant principal at Center.

With over 25 years of experience in education, Hutchinson has served as a special educator, special education coordinator and, most recently, as a team chair and assistant principal in Westford.

Hutchinson is excited to be part of the Center Elementary School team and looks forward to contributing to a positive and collaborative school community.

Hutchinson resides in Merrimack, New Hampshire, with her husband, Keith, their three children, Kaitlyn, Colette and Michael, and their dog, Cooper.