by Jen Oemig

CHELMSFORD – The Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents (M.A.S.S.) has awarded Dr. Jay Lang, Superintendent of Chelmsford Public Schools, with the 2024 President’s Award.

The honor was bestowed upon Dr. Lang during the M.A.S.S. President’s Annual Spring Meeting on Thursday, May 23.

Dr. Lang has been the Superintendent of Chelmsford Public Schools since 2015.

Prior to that, he served as Deputy Superintendent of Finance and Operations for the Lowell Public Schools for 13, years while his tenure in Lowell extended over 20 years.

“Jay leads with the belief that all children can learn and achieve at high levels given the proper time and support and that all teachers can teach at high levels given the right conditions,” said Barbara Malkas, president of M.A.S.S. “It is with this belief system that Jay has brought expanded conditions and planning to the success of the Chelmsford Public Schools whose performance is consistently ahead of state averages.”

Dr. Lang is credited with initiating full-day kindergarten and dual-enrollment programs at Chelmsford High School, developing a 10-year capital plan and introducing Innovation Pathways in the high school, as well as creating and supporting diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives throughout the district.

In addition to his strong district leadership, Dr. Lang has been an active and contributing member of M.A.S.S. and has provided significant support to his colleagues.

He is currently serving on the M.A.S.S. Executive Committee, served previously as President of the Merrimack Valley Superintendent Roundtable and is a member of the M.A.S.S. Legislative Committee.

“Jay provides strong analytical and practical ideas and solutions to our many challenges. When Jay speaks, his colleagues listen,” said Ms. Malkas. “Jay brings intellect, compassion, wit and strong interpersonal skills to his district as well as to our Association. His collaborative leadership style and willingness to serve others is just who Jay is.”