Interim School Superintendent Scott Smith reads citation for Brad Clements upon his retirement as deputy superintendent.
Leonardtown, MD — The St. Mary’s County Public Schools (SMCPS) June 24 officially bid farewell to a long-serving administrator upon his retirement. J. Bradley Clements, known by everyone as Brad, had served more than 40 years in public education, including 22 in St. Mary’s and before that in Charles County. At his retirement he was deputy superintendent for Schools and Operations.
According to a resolution presented to him at the June 24 school board meeting, Clements has served under three superintendents and two interim superintendents. He was responsible during his career with constructing nineteen schools, one administrative office building, one warehouse and 37 major construction projects resulting in “efficient school buildings, student friendly restrooms, and welcoming office spaces.”
The resolution goes on to say, “His accomplishments are not only measured in brick and mortar, but also in programs, processes, and people he has developed and encouraged throughout his tenure. He has supported those he supervised, counseled well for those for whom he worked – and personifies the adage ‘let your conscience be your guide’.”
Clements, in addressing the board, said, “Our community has truly supported our schools, especially in the area of improving our schools,” noting that meant $315 million in school construction monies.
Clements added, “It’s been truly about people – all of those people who worked for me,” and then he quickly added, “except they didn’t work for me, we worked together.”
Board member Cathy Allen, who has served on the board for 15 of Clements’ 22 years with the system, said, “He had a part in making this a much better system.” She added, “He always found a way to make things happen.”
Board member Mary Washington extended praise to Clements’ wife. She said to her, “You won’t have to worry about getting those calls at 2 in the morning on snow days.” Clements was the main point person in coordinating the decision-making process for snow days.
Clements and his wife plan on traveling around the country and enjoying their retirement.
Prior to the school board meeting a going-away reception was held at the central office building.
Leonardtown High School Principal Maureen Montgomery has been appointed deputy superintendent of schools effective July 1.
Contact Dick Myers at dick.myers@thebaynet.com