Smithfield Public Schools superintendent resigns during hazing investigation

SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) — Smithfield Public Schools Superintendent Dawn Bartz resigned Friday while the school system continues an investigation into an alleged anti-Semitic hazing incident.

“As I conclude my service as Superintendent of Smithfield Public Schools, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the students, families, educators, staff, and community partners who make this district such a special place. It has been an honor to work alongside you over the past three and a half years,” Bartz said in her resignation letter.

She had been placed on administrative leave in November as the district investigated an alleged hazing incident involving school football team players and a Jewish student.

The players were later reinstated.

Bartz’s full resignation letter can be read below:

Dear Smithfield Families and School Community Members,

As I conclude my service as Superintendent of Smithfield Public Schools, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to the students, families, educators, staff, and community partners who make this district such a special place. It has been an honor to work alongside you over the past three and a half years. Together, we have made important progress for the district.

I am proud of what we have accomplished as a community.  Among our shared achievements:

Strengthening academic outcomes. Most of our schools have surpassed pre-pandemic performance in English Language Arts and mathematics, and Smithfield High School rose from #30 to #9 in the state—reflecting expanded opportunities in dual enrollment, career and technical education (CTE), and rigorous coursework.

Improving student success indicators. Our graduation rate reached 95%, and chronic absenteeism declined through the joint efforts of families, teachers, and support teams.

Stabilizing and strengthening district resources. Working closely with the School Committee and town partners, we turned a previously inherited deficit into a balanced budget and responsible surplus. This allowed us to retain staff, invest in capital improvements, and begin needed renovations, including upgrades at the high school and replacement of student furniture.

Expanding opportunities for all learners. We renovated spaces to better support intensive special education students with inclusive practice at the core. We also launched or revitalized
several CTE pathways—adding Culinary Arts, Biomedical Engineering, and Pre-Engineering—providing students with hands-on experiences, industry connections, and
impressive college credit.

Advancing STEM and innovation districtwide. A K–12 STEM pathway was developed that ensures regular inquiry-based learning for elementary students, supported by new Innovation
Labs funded through a grant this summer. These spaces give students access to emerging technologies and opportunities to explore, design, and create.

Enriching the arts and celebrating our community. Through collaboration with families and educators, we expanded fine and performing arts offerings and strengthened recognition
programs, including student and staff honors that highlight excellence and community building.

Investing in facilities for generations to come. After more than a decade of planning, the completion of the Boyle Athletic Field project represents a major milestone in providing safe,
modern spaces for student activities and community events.

Building new vision and collaboration. We developed a district strategic plan with wide community input—focusing on academic excellence, innovation, wellness, communication, and
responsible stewardship of facilities. We also successfully settled contracts with all labor groups, reinforcing the district’s commitment to strong, collaborative relationships.

None of these accomplishments belong to any one person; they are the result of dedicated educators, engaged families, amazing students, and a community here that believes in the power
of Smithfield public education. I am grateful to have been part of this work.

As Smithfield moves forward, I am confident the district will continue to build on this progress and momentum. I wish all our students, staff, and families continued success in the years ahead.

Thank you for the privilege of serving this community.

With appreciation,
Dawn Bartz, Ed.D