Lowell — After seven years as principal at Lowell High School, Steve Gough has taken on the role of director of teaching and learning, overseeing all district instructional programs, plus the English learner program, student homeless services and technology services.
“Really anything that would impact student learning in the district probably lands in this office,” said Gough, who started the position July 1.
The position is expanded from the district’s director of curriculum role, previously held by Dan VanderMeulen, who retired in the spring. The expanded position now includes oversight of instructional technology services.
While he will be involved in many areas, Gough is mostly focused on making sure educators have the processes in place and resources to do their jobs well.
“My job is to create the systems to ensure that things are all functioning well for students,” he said. “I’m really excited about it. My entire career, I think I have been most focused and intrigued by finding ways to make sure students are learning at high levels and to make sure all students have opportunities to connect with their learning and feel supported.”
Before serving as Lowell High School principal, Gough spent 18 years as an educator in Comstock Park Public Schools.
As a longtime administrator, Gough brings a wealth of experience to the role, said Superintendent Nate Fowler.
“As high-school principal, Steve focused on supporting teachers so students can learn at high levels. He brings that mindset to the district leadership position, where he will build on the success that we have had,” Fowler said. “One of the things that I appreciate about Steve is that he is a learner. He loves to dig into current research on best practices and use that knowledge to support student learning.”
Gough said a major focus of his role is to ensure that all areas of LAS, from administrators to maintenance, are focused on student learning.
“At the root of every decision should be the question, ‘How does this impact our district mission, which is ensuring that all students learn the essential content to be successful?’” he said.
He said the foundation is already in place.
“We believe in our mission statement. We are striving to provide outstanding programming for all students.”
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