The Massachusetts Association of School Business Officials (MASBO) has presented the 2025 President’s Award to Pola G. Andrews, Executive Director of Finance and Administration for the Saugus Public Schools.
Daniel Gale, who has served as President of the MASBO Board of Directors over the past year, announced the award at the association’s recent Annual Institute in Falmouth. Mr. Gale, who is the Director of Finance and Operations for the Hudson Public Schools, said, “Ms. Andrews elevates the profession every day with her expertise, leadership, and compassion. With valuable experience in both the private and public sectors, she approaches her job with relentless creativity, integrity, and a singular focus on the needs of schools and students.”
Ms. Andrews has served in her current role for nearly 13 years. She previously worked for two years as Business Manager for the Hamilton-Wenham School District. Prior to leadership roles in school districts, Ms. Andrews worked for a decade as a senior staff accountant at Citizens Energy Corporation. She has earned State licensure as an Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent. She has also earned the rigorous national credential of Certified Administrator for Finance and Operations from ASBO International.
Ms. Andrews earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the Carroll School of Management at Boston College and a Master’s degree in Leadership and Administration from Boston College.
Michael C. Hashem, Superintendent of Saugus Public Schools, highlighted Ms. Andrews’ “dedication and compassion,” noting that she “has been and continues to be a champion for equity and the assurance that all students have what is needed to find success.”
Mr. Gale remarked that in addition to immense contributions in her own school district, Ms. Andrews has made an impact across the Commonwealth, including serving as a mentor in MASBO’s Professional Support Program. As a member of the Feed Kids Coalition sponsored by Project Bread, she also advocated successfully at the state level for universal school meals in Massachusetts.
The MASBO President’s Award is sponsored by Boston Business Technologies and includes a $1,500 contribution to a Massachusetts school district of the winner’s choosing.