In the classic board game Monopoly, “Take a Ride on the Reading” was a mandatory move when drawing the “Chance” card during play. When it comes to the Reading Public Schools, however, taking a ride into the Superintendent’s office is optional, and it’s an option Wendy Crocker-Roberge ultimately decided to pass on.

The Lowell Public Schools Assistant Superintendent for Schools and Leadership, one of four original finalists for the top job in Reading, withdrew from consideration Sunday night. Her withdrawal, and that of two other finalists along the way, leaves Dr. Henry Turner as the last person standing for the position.

Crocker-Roberge’s decision came just two days prior to her final interview in the process, scheduled for this past Tuesday, March 31. It also came after multiple interviews and visits to Lowell Public Schools from people involved in the search process to learn more about her.

“It became very clear over the weekend my heart is here in Lowell and I felt the need to continue working toward the goals we’ve set as a district,” Crocker-Roberge said when contacted Thursday afternoon.

The former Pyne Arts Magnet School Principal was one of three Assistant Superintendents whose contract status was very much up in the air during what became a public process in March. A three year contract extension was pared back to a one year deal after the Lowell School Committee deadlocked 3-3 on the vote to accept the agreements during its March 4 meeting. The shorter-term deal passed by a 5-1 margin March 18.

Crocker-Roberge indicated that despite the long-term uncertainty during these challenging budget times, she would not seek further opportunities through the end of the current school year and the 2026-2027 session.

“I learned from the process that I’m very capable of becoming a Superintendent when the right time arrives,” she added. “There will likely be other opportunities in the future should I decide to move on. But I love my job, and I would love a long-term commitment to stay in Lowell.”