My name is Jeff Haines, and I am truly honored and excited to be joining the Daniel Butler Elementary School as your new principal. I feel incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to become part of such a caring and dedicated school community. Over the past three years, I have served as the Principal of the Washington School in Lowell, where I had the privilege of working alongside amazing students, staff, and families. Those experiences reinforced what I have always believed—that strong relationships are at the heart of every great school.

Education has been my passion throughout my career. Before becoming a principal, I served as an Assistant Principal for nine years in Lowell and four years in Derry, New Hampshire. I also spent four years as the Human Resources Director for the Marlborough Public Schools and began my career teaching kindergarten, first grade, and second grade in Marlborough and Boston. Each role has shaped the educator and leader I am today, but one thing has remained constant: my commitment to doing what is best for children.

One of the things that is most important to me is making sure every student feels safe, welcomed, and known. I make it a priority to learn every child's name because I believe every student deserves to feel seen and valued. When students know they belong, they are more confident, more engaged, and more willing to take on new challenges. My favorite childhood book is The Little Engine That Could, and its message of perseverance has stayed with me throughout my life. I also believe wholeheartedly that "Every Day is a New Day." We all have opportunities to learn from yesterday, celebrate today's successes, and begin again tomorrow with hope and optimism.

When I'm not at school, you'll often find me out for a run. Running has become one of my favorite ways to recharge, and I'm proud to have completed 12 marathons. The lessons I've learned through running—perseverance, resilience, and taking one step at a time—are lessons I try to bring into my work every day. I am looking forward to meeting each of you, building meaningful relationships with our students, staff, and families, and working together to make Butler a place where every child feels inspired to learn, grow, and succeed. I can't wait to begin this journey with all of you!