TAUNTON - Taunton Public Schools is pleased to announce that Superintendent John J. Cabral was recognized at the Massachusetts State House as part of the 40th Annual Heritage Day of Portugal.
The event recognizes the individuals in Portuguese-speaking communities who help to preserve their cultural traditions while giving back to their communities and encouraging future generations to appreciate and love their heritage.
“It is an honor to be recognized for my contributions to the Portuguese-American community, and I hope to continue inspiring future generations to embrace their heritage and make a positive impact in their communities," said Cabral.
Cabral was put forward as the Third Bristol District nominee by Representative Carol Doherty.
“John has been a strong voice for students for many years, and he is a shining example of excellence among the Portuguese diaspora in Taunton. His commitment to the students and families of Taunton is truly remarkable,” said Doherty. “His innovative approach to education and
tireless advocacy for equitable opportunities have made a profound impact on our community. It is an honor to recognize his achievements and contributions at this year’s Heritage Day of Portugal.”
Cabral was born on the Portuguese island of São Miguel. The Cabral family left São Miguel and relocated to Fall River, Massachusetts in 1975 when he was 15 months old.
Cabral went through the Fall River public school system, often serving as a translator and facilitator for his parents as they learned English. Those early experiences shaped his approach to education and relationship-building with families.
As Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operations, Cabral was responsible for securing funding for Taunton Public Schools’ Family Welcome Center and Newcomers Academy. He also ensured translation costs were included in the school budget to better reach and communicate with non-English-speaking families.
As Superintendent, he worked closely with Manet Community Health to open a school-based health center on the High School campus to ensure families have easy access to healthcare. This project was inspired by his childhood experiences of visiting a community health center in Fall River with his family for important routine care.
Cabral is a fierce advocate for the district’s English-language learners with Portuguese-speaking students frequently stopping by his office to share their progress in English.
“We are extremely proud of Superintendent Cabral for his outstanding achievements and his commitment to preserving his cultural heritage while making a positive impact in our community,” said School Committee Chair Dr. Gregory DeMelo. “His dedication to our students and families is truly commendable, and we congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition."
"As a Portuguese immigrant who understands firsthand the transformative power of education, Superintendent Cabral has been a steadfast advocate for our children and works tirelessly to provide opportunities to secure positive futures for our youth,” said Mayor Shaunna O’Connell. “Being honored at the State House for Portugal Day of Heritage is a well-deserved recognition of his ongoing efforts and significant community impact."
John holds a Bachelor's Degree in Secondary Education-Social Studies and History from Benedictine University, a Master's Degree in Integrated Studies from Cambridge College, and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Education Leadership from Fitchburg College. John is known for his relentless pursuit of knowledge, which led him to receive an Education Leadership and Superintendency certification from Lesley University through the READS Academy and MSSAA.
Cabral achieved certification as an administrator mentor from the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth in 2024.
He was one of 22 honorees, a list that includes a band and an organization.
The ceremony at the State House cultural performances, speeches by the Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, House Speaker Ron Mariano, State Senate Dean Marc Pacheco, and an address by Ponta Delgaga, Portugal Mayor Pedro Nascimento Cabral.
