Letter from Principal Softic

January 11, 2023

Dear Bates Community,

It is with great emotion that I write to inform you I will be leaving Bates Elementary School at the conclusion of this school year.  I have been offered and accepted the principal position at Collins Middle School. Bates is an amazing community to be a part of which makes this decision so challenging. However, the opportunity to lead Collins and work with the larger Salem community is a privilege and an honor.  I am excited to continue working closely with your child as they transition to middle school! 

I am extremely grateful to all of our students, teachers and families. You are all what make Bates a real family. The wrap around support and love for one another is something I will always cherish. This announcement comes early in our school year with much work to be done. There will be time in the spring to reflect, celebrate and say goodbye.  At this time, it is essential that our focus remains on making this year a meaningful experience for our students.  

I plan to work closely with Dr. Zrike and the Bates staff to support a leadership transition.  I am confident that a new leader will be identified that will partner with this community to build on the strong foundation that already exists at the school.  

To close, I am grateful to have been a part of the Bates community over the last five years. I look forward to finishing the year strongly! Please do not hesitate to reach out to me if you have any additional questions. 

Sincerely,

Gavin Softic, Principal