John Shea
Superintendent of Schools
John Shea brings close to thirty years of experience in the education field to Somersworth & Rollinsford. He has taught high school (politics, economics, history), served as a high school principal, head of school, coach, and college counselor – and also co-founded the charter school featured in the documentary Most Likely to Succeed. He has worked in CA, WA, CO, MA, ME, NH, India, Panama, and Ethiopia. John has spoken often at conferences and other events and has written numerous published commentaries on education and other topics. He earned his undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame, an MBA from Harvard Business School, and an M.Ed. in educational leadership and policy studies from the University of Washington. He is certified in NH as a principal and superintendent.
Kat Crosby
Assistant Superintendent
Kathleen “Kat” Crosby brings 25 years of experience in the field of education to her new role. She graduated from Keene State College with a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and developmental psychology and later earned M.Ed. in school leadership from New England College. She taught at the elementary level for nine years, served as an elementary assistant principal for three years, and as an elementary principal for 12 years. Kat was the founding administrator of the new public elementary school in Middleton, NH opened in 2016. She led the school for eight years. Kat is certified as an elementary teacher (K-8), school principal (K-12), and assistant superintendent. She is a strong advocate for public education and ensuring equitable educational experiences for all students.
Katie Krauss
Business Administrator
A Somersworth High School graduate, Katie Krauss has worked in the SAU office for over 20 years and as the district’s business administrator since 2017. Katie earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration from SNHU and an associate’s degree in accounting from McIntosh College. She also completed the SNHU School Business Administrator Certificate program. Katie is a member of NHASBO (New Hampshire Association of School Business Officials) and is currently the association’s southeast region representative on their executive board. Katie also serves on the executive board of the insurance provider School Care.
Leander Corman
Director of Student Services
A leader dedicated to promoting a culture conducive to success for all students, Leander Corman has worked for the past 15 years as a special education administrator. Her experience also includes serving as a vocational rehabilitation counselor, special education teacher, and educational consultant. She has presented at multiple national conferences. She brings her outgoing and caring personality to Somersworth – along with a commitment to working productively with all stakeholders. Leander earned her bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation services, a master’s in rehabilitation counseling, and a certificate of advanced graduate studies in educational leadership. She holds both principal and special education administrator certifications.
Stephanie Lafreniere
Director of Grants and Development
Stephanie Lafreniere has been an educator for over twenty years, having worked in NH, CT and NY. She has nineteen years of experience in educational administration, including work at the school, district and state level. She has experience at the elementary, middle, and high school levels and has always had a focus on social emotional learning. She has consistently been involved in grant writing and oversight throughout her career (including extensive Title I experience) – providing educators with opportunities to continue their learning, while enhancing learning opportunities and pathways for all students. Stephanie has also served as director of strategic initiatives for an educational non-profit organization. She earned her bachelor’s degree from UNH, and master’s degrees from Columbia University and the City University of New York, Baruch College (in educational administration and supervision). She is also a graduate of the NYC Leadership Academy. Stephanie is certified in NH as a school social worker, principal, and superintendent.