Following Incredible 46 Years, Deputy Superintendent Dr. Carolyn Turk Announces Retirement
Posted on 06/09/2023
Dear CPS Community:
I hope this finds you well. It is with mixed emotions that I share with you that Deputy Superintendent Dr. Carolyn Turk will be retiring in October after a remarkable 46 years of service to Cambridge Public Schools. Her last day will be Tuesday, October 31.
As Dr. Turk has often shared, she has been a part of and connected to our district for the majority of her life. She attended our schools and graduated from Cambridge Rindge and Latin School in 1973. Following graduation, Dr. Turk attended Boston State College, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She then pursued her Master’s degree in Educational and Instructional Technology at Fitchburg University followed by her doctorate in Educational Leadership, Management and Policy from Seton Hall University.
Dr. Turk’s professional journey began in 1977 when she started as a teacher at the Tobin School. In 1991, she transitioned into her role there as Assistant Principal. In 1998, Dr. Turk was appointed Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction for the district and in 2002, she was named Deputy Superintendent, serving in that capacity for the last 21 years.
Through the years, Dr. Turk has seen our district transform and grow. She was instrumental in one of the first school consolidations in the district as well as the transformation of the K-8 schools to upper schools. Dr. Turk has always availed herself to serve the community with grit and grace by serving as acting Superintendent twice and teaming with the Operations Department to respond to the COVID pandemic and, ultimately, leading the COVID response over the past several months. Dr. Turk has built and cultivated countless relationships with community partners and city leaders as a true champion for our youth. She is a lifelong Girl Scout and in her personal time teaches an online citizenship class.
Dr. Turk has left an indelible impression on countless students and colleagues. Her deep commitment to our youth and educational expertise have inspired generations and anyone who has had the privilege to serve alongside her. Her authentic leadership and caring, upbeat, and gentle demeanor will be greatly missed. She has been a force to reckon with and we are indebted to her for her service. We wish Dr. Turk the very best in retirement.
With Gratitude,
Dr. Victoria L. Greer, Superintendent