Old Rochester assistant superintendent recognized by international organization

MATTAPOISETT — Old Rochester Regional School District Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations Howard Barber has been awarded the 2023 Eagle Award by the Association of School Business Officials International, announced the district in a press release.

The 2023 Eagle Award recognizes K–12 business professionals for their “exemplary leadership” and service to their districts and the school business profession, according to the press release. 

Barber was recognized during the Association of School Business Officials’ Annual Conference and Expo at the Gaylord National Harbor Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland.

"On behalf of our districts, I would like to congratulate Mr. Barber on this achievement," said Old Rochester Regional School District Superintendent Mike Nelson. "He plays a vital role in our districts' day-to-day operations and this recognition is one that is well-deserved."

Barber has served as the Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations for Old Rochester Regional School District and Superintendency Union #55 since 2020.

In his role Barber is responsible for the preparation and analysis of the districts’ budgets and annual reports; overseeing grant applications, procurements and audits. Barber also supports the Superintendent of Schools with collective bargaining and contract negotiations as needed.

Previously, Barber served as the director of finance, operations and human resources for the Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District from 2017-2020. Barber also previously served as school business manager for Greenfield Public Schools from 2015-2018 and as school business manager/senior financial analyst for Springfield Public Schools from 2008-2014.

Barber has previously taught classes at Worcester State University and Western New England University. He has previously served in several positions, including president, for the Massachusetts Association of School Business Officials.

Barber holds a master's degree in accounting and taxation from the University of Hartford and a bachelor's degree in business administration from American International College. He is a Certified Public Accountant in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

"Sincere and enthusiastic congratulations to Mr. Barber for this significant award," said Rochester School Committee Chairperson Sharon Hartley. "We appreciate his dedication, hard work and contributions to our school districts as well as this important professional achievement."