The Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents (M.A.S.S.) recently presented the 2025 Assistant Superintendent Leadership Award to Gabrielle (Gabby) Abrams, Ed.D., of the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District (ABRSD).
Dr. Abrams, a resident of Ashland, currently serves as assistant superintendent for teaching and learning. She previously served as assistant superintendent in the Medway Public Schools and instructional leadership director/executive director in the Marlborough Public Schools. Dr. Abrams has also worked as a teacher and administrator at the middle and high school levels.
Lori Gallivan, assistant superintendent in the Winthrop Public Schools, presented the award at the M.A.S.S. Paul J. Andrews Summer Executive Institute in Mashpee. She said about Dr. Abrams, “Gabby is highly respected by her colleagues statewide. She is well versed in all areas and always strives to follow both the research and the voice of educators. Gabby is a ‘teacher of teachers’ and a ‘teacher of leaders.’ She is generous with her ideas and with her willingness to support her colleagues, especially those new to the role.”
She is a member of the Assistant Superintendent Working Group and has served as a mentor in the Assistant Superintendent Mentoring Program since its inception. She has presented at M.A.S.S. events on various topics, including investigating history as a lever for deeper learning in history and social sciences, and women in leadership, the subject of her doctoral research. Dr. Abrams also serves as co-facilitator of a job-alike group for assistant superintendents and curriculum directors hosted by the ACCEPT Education Collaborative.
Peter Light, superintendent of ABRSD, commended Dr. Abrams’ work over the past year, particularly her leadership in the district’s Vision of a Graduate and the Multi-Tiered System of Support (MTSS). “Gabby has brought fresh energy, deep insight, and an unwavering commitment to equity and excellence since the day she arrived in our district,” said Superintendent Light. “Her ability to build strong relationships, think strategically, and keep students at the center of every decision has already made a tremendous impact. This recognition is a testament to her leadership and to the meaningful progress we’re making together to ensure a high-quality education for all students.”