Haverhill Residents Vie for Whittier Tech School Committee Seat

Former assistant superintendent and town manager among finalists for business manager role

Mar. 23, 2026 at 3:03am

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The Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School is seeking a new business manager, with two local figures emerging as finalists for the position - former Haverhill Assistant Superintendent Michael J. Pfifferling and West Newbury Town Manager Angus Jennings. The Whittier Tech School Committee will interview the candidates during a special meeting on Wednesday, March 25. Additionally, the Haverhill School Committee will interview candidates to represent the city on the Whittier Tech School Committee during their meeting on Thursday, March 26.

Why it matters

The business manager role at Whittier Tech is a key position overseeing the school's finances and operations. The selection of the right candidate is crucial for the continued success of the regional vocational school. Meanwhile, Haverhill's representative on the Whittier Tech School Committee plays an important role in advocating for the city's interests and ensuring strong collaboration between the school and the local community.

The details

The Whittier Tech School Committee will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, March 25 to interview the two finalists for the business manager position - Michael J. Pfifferling, currently the Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations in Marblehead, and Angus Jennings, the current Town Manager of West Newbury. The previous business manager, Kara Kosmes, is retiring in August after 13 years in the role. The position has a salary range of $165,000 to $180,000 and requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance or business administration, along with five years of relevant experience. Familiarity with regional school districts and experience with building projects and the Massachusetts School Building Authority is preferred.

  • The Whittier Tech School Committee will hold a special meeting on Wednesday, March 25 at 6:30 p.m. to interview the finalists for the business manager position.
  • The Haverhill School Committee will interview candidates to represent the city on the Whittier Tech School Committee during their meeting on Thursday, March 26 at 7 p.m.

The players

Michael J. Pfifferling

Former Haverhill Assistant Superintendent who is currently the Assistant Superintendent of Finance and Operations in Marblehead and a finalist for the Whittier Tech business manager position.

Angus Jennings

West Newbury Town Manager who is also a finalist for the Whittier Tech business manager position.

Kara Kosmes

The current Whittier Tech business manager who is retiring in August after 13 years in the role.

Amanda B. Basiliere

Ward 4 Haverhill School Committee member and a finalist to represent the city on the Whittier Tech School Committee.

Katrina Hobbs Everett

Former Ward 2 Haverhill City Councilor and a finalist to represent the city on the Whittier Tech School Committee.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Haverhill School Committee will select the city's representative on the Whittier Tech School Committee during their meeting on Thursday, March 26.

The takeaway

The selection of the Whittier Tech business manager and Haverhill's representative on the school committee are important decisions that will impact the regional vocational school and its relationship with the local community. The public meetings this week provide an opportunity for transparency and community input on these key positions.