Warwick superintendent steps down

WARWICK, R.I. (WLNE) — Warwick Superintendent Lynn Dambruch submitted her retirement after announcing it in a letter addressed to the Warwick School Community on May 12.

Dambruch served as Warwick Public Schools’ superintendent since 2021, and had been with the district for 39 years, including a stint as principal of Robertson Elementary School in the city.

She was first named superintendent in May of 2021.

Her retirement was discussed by the Warwick School Committee in closed session in their meeting on Tuesday night.

According to School Committee Chair Shaun Galligan, Assistant Superintendent William McCaffrey will continue to serve as acting superintendent for the district.

“Superintendent Dambruch has been an unwavering champion for our schools, and her retirement marks the end of an extraordinary era of leadership in Warwick,” School Committee Chair Shaun Galligan said. “Her impact can be seen in every corner of our district – from improved academic outcomes and social-emotional support to stronger community partnerships and the construction of our new high schools. On behalf of the entire Warwick School Committee, I thank Lynn for her decades of service and extend our deepest gratitude for the integrity, compassion, and vision she brought to our school system every day.”

McCaffrey had been serving as interim superintendent since March, when Dambruch announced that she would take a leave of absence.

Dambruch’s full retirement announcement can be read below:

Dear Warwick School Community,

For the past 39 years, I have been privileged to dedicate my career to fostering a respectful, engaging, and student-centered learning environment in Warwick Public Schools. I am deeply grateful to the students, teachers, administrators, staff, and parents with whom I have had the pleasure of working and sharing this incredible journey.

Your support, collaboration, and enthusiasm have been the driving force behind all that we have achieved together. Without you, many of our most meaningful initiatives would never have come to life. I want to extend a special thank you to my exceptional Central Administration team for your unwavering dedication and partnership.

Because of our shared commitment, we have seen measurable progress in student achievement and built a strong foundation for continued growth and success. These accomplishments reflect what we can achieve when we work together with purpose and passion. We have also made meaningful strides in addressing the social-emotional needs of our students—an increasingly vital part of our mission.

Over the years, I have taken great pride in helping to expand the network of community partners that support our schools and students. Notable collaborations include the Mentor Program, Save the Bay, the Warwick Boys and Girls Club, VOWS, the Warwick Rotary Club, and the development of our new high schools. These partnerships have enriched the educational experience for our students and staff by offering mentorship, hands-on learning opportunities, and critical resources.

I have also been honored to receive several professional recognitions throughout my career, including the National Distinguished Principal Award, the VOWS Educator of the Year Award, and the Save the Bay Educator of the Year Award. I view these honors not as personal achievements, but as reflections of the collective effort, spirit, and excellence that define Warwick Public Schools.

It has been one of the greatest privileges of my life to be a part of this school district. I am incredibly fortunate to have worked alongside so many dedicated educators, supportive families, and inspiring students. I will deeply miss the work we do and the people who make it so meaningful.

As I prepare for the next chapter, I want to express my heartfelt appreciation for the opportunity to serve Warwick. I wish each of you continued happiness, fulfillment, and success in the years to come.

With sincere gratitude,

Lynn Dambruch

Superintendent

Warwick Public Schools