Dear Oyster River Families,

We are writing to share that in consultation with the School Board, Dr. Shaps has made the difficult decision to end his service to the ORCSD effective June 30, 2026.

The ORCSD School Board wishes to thank Dr. Shaps for his meaningful contributions to the District and his deep care for Oyster River students and staff. Dr. Shaps wishes to thank the Oyster River community for the opportunity to advance the District's commitment to academic excellence and strengthening systems in service of students.

We hope that the important work underway by our talented professionals continues with focus and care, and that our community finds strength and a shared path forward. The Board understands the importance of a smooth transition and will publicly discuss next steps at the Board meeting on Wednesday, June 17, 2026.

Respectfully,

Matt BaconDr. Robert Shaps

School Board ChairSuperintendent of Schools

Announcement: Decision to Resign as Superintendent

Dear Oyster River Families,  

As you are aware, I have made the difficult decision to submit my resignation as ORCSD’s superintendent, effective June 30, 2026.  

I leave this role as I entered it, with deep care for Oyster River students and staff, and a steadfast commitment to serving all learners. Supporting children during such a critical stage of development is both an honor and a responsibility, and it has been a privilege to carry that responsibility alongside our dedicated educators and staff.  

Throughout my more than 30-year career in education across New Hampshire, Massachusetts and New York, my focus has remained constant: advancing excellence and strengthening systems in service of students. My work in Oyster River has reflected that same level of commitment and purpose.  

As I reflect on the past two years serving this community, I am especially proud of our collaborative efforts to strengthen our Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), implement data-informed decision-making practices, expand rigorous course offerings at the high school level, create meaningful opportunities for community engagement, and secure multiple collective bargaining agreements. I am also grateful for the partnership with the School Board in developing the district’s next strategic plan and for the establishment of new roles, such as the K–8 curriculum coordinator and district data manager-registrar, that will continue to meaningfully support students and staff.  

I am no stranger to challenges and remain committed to honoring my professional responsibilities through the conclusion of my service. As I close this chapter, my hope is that the important work underway by our talented professionals continues with focus and care, and that our community finds strength, healing, and a shared path forward.  

Respectfully, 
 
Dr. Robert Shaps
Superintendent of Schools