On Wednesday, March 26, the Scituate community learned that Gates Middle School Principal Ryan Beattie had been named the 2025 Massachusetts Middle School Principal of the Year by the Massachusetts School Administrators’ Association (MSAA). This significant honor reflects the care, leadership, and notable work ethic Beattie models daily for students and staff.
“We are in the presence of greatness here in SPS,” said Superintendent William Burkhead in his statement to the Scituate Public School community. “This is a major accomplishment and so well deserved. Ryan is a thoughtful, smart, visionary, and inclusive leader that we are so lucky to have in Scituate.”
Beattie said he first learned of his nomination earlier this year from Superintendent Burkhead. Later in the year, the MSAA reached out to let him know he was a finalist. From there, he submitted an application with information about the school and several letters of recommendation from members of the school community. After an hour-long interview with representatives from the MSAA and last year’s principal of the year, Beattie received exciting news: He was selected as this year’s recipient.
While this distinction represents a significant personal and professional achievement, Beattie was quick to say the award isn’t just about him, noting, “This is really about our school. The students, the staff, the programs—we all work hard together. I’m just representing the amazing things happening here.”
Starting his career in Scituate as a high school English teacher, Beattie was the English Language Arts (ELA) department chair when he applied for the assistant principal position at Gates in 2017. Serving in this capacity from 2017-2019, he was hired as the principal in 2019: “I’ve loved every role I’ve had in education,” he said. “But being a principal is my dream job. I get to work directly with both kids and teachers. I learn something new every day, and I come to work excited.”
When asked to describe a “fun” aspect of his job, Beattie’s answer was simple: lunch. “Lunch is my favorite time of day,” he smiled. “I get to see and talk to every kid in the school. It’s more relaxed and fun. We joke around, and I really get to know them.”
Of course, there are challenges, too. Beattie said one of the most difficult aspects of his job is finding the best ways to support students and teachers who are struggling. “Every situation is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all solution,” he explained. “But those challenges are also the most rewarding. When we find what works and someone makes progress, it’s worth it.”
Beattie offered thoughtful advice for students who may be interested in becoming educators or administrators: “Education is rewarding but hard work,” he said. “You need to have a big heart, a strong work ethic, and understand the impact you can have on a child’s life. And if you want to be a principal, be a teacher for as long as you can first. Being a great principal starts with understanding how kids learn.”
When he’s not at school, Beattie spends his free time reading and running. Having completed ten marathons, he said running helps him relax and focus. With years of experience as an English teacher, Beattie finds time to enjoy books regularly, and his favorite book remains To Kill a Mockingbird. He also spends lots of time with his niece, Lily, and his nephew, Brian, who are ten-year-old twins. Beattie’s dog, Miss Mabel, a chihuahua and poodle mix, is another cherished family member well loved by Gates students and staff.
Beattie said he is thankful to be part of the Scituate community, noting, “This is the only place I’ve worked professionally,” adding, “I feel a strong connection to this community, and I’m proud to serve it. The parents, the kids, the staff—everyone cares about education. This award is really a reflection of all of us.”