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A prolonged standing ovation greeted Gerry McCue, the widely respected Chelsea Public Schools administrator, as guests gathered to mark his retirement.
Assistant Supt. of Schools Sarah Kent, Human Resources Director Tina Sullivan, Deputy Supt. of Schools Linda Breau, and Supt. of Schools Dr. Mary Bourque make a special presentation to their retiring colleague, Gerry Mccue
“I’m not done yet,” McCue responded to the crowd with characteristic grace.
After McCue delivered his closing remarks, those in attendance rose once more to express their appreciation for someone whose presence had strengthened Chelsea schools significantly.
The retirement celebration took place on June 14 at the Winthrop Yacht Club, where McCue, who served as executive director for administration and finance for the Chelsea Public Schools, was recognized for his lengthy tenure.
At Dr. Mary Bourque’s suggestion, the Supt. of Schools had McCue sit prominently while colleagues and associates approached the podium to celebrate his 26 years with the Chelsea School Department.
His daughters, Kelley and Lindsey McCue, shared remarks about how “our father has always led by example and he will be a tough act to follow.”
“Our dad has always been a role model, not only for his family, but for also for his extended family. He has a tremendous work ethic, he’s a compassionate leader, and a true advocate for the community he has worked in. Chelsea has been his home away from home for the past 26 years. Thank you for joining us tonight to celebrate Gerry’s next chapter in life which I’m sure will be filled with the same reward and fulfillment he’s had during his career here.”
When Dr. Bourque asked district colleagues to capture Gerry McCue’s essence in a single word, “we got, patient, listener, passionate, caring, dedicated, smart – but universally everyone one said, ‘calm.”
McCue’s composure under pressure and his distinctive sense of humor particularly impressed Bourque, who noted these qualities throughout his tenure.
“Gerry, thank you for taking a risk on Chelsea public schools back in 1992 when the city was in receivership and the schools were not doing well,” Bourque observed. “But we are a better school system because you have been here and I am a better superintendent because I have had the honor of working with you as an assistant superintendent, deputy superintendent, and superintendent.”
McCue’s own remarks emphasized his deep satisfaction with his Chelsea career and his connection to the broader community. Expressing gratitude to both colleagues and family for their support, he described the city as forever meaningful to him personally.
The dual standing ovations demonstrated the profound respect and admiration colleagues held for McCue and underscored his substantial legacy within Chelsea schools.
“This was a great tribute, a wonderful celebration for a true professional.” Councillor-at-Large Leo Robinson reflected afterwards.