John J. Cabral is a highly respected leader with nearly three decades of experience in the Taunton Public School system. John was appointed as Superintendent of Schools in 2018 and has served in various roles, including Social Studies teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal, and Assistant Superintendent for Finance and Operation. Born on the Portuguese island of São Miguel, John's family moved to Fall River, Massachusetts, in 1975 when he was 15 months old. Growing up, he often served as a translator for his parents, shaping his approach to education and relationship-building with families.
John holds a Bachelor's in Secondary Education-Social Studies and History from Benedictine University, a Master's in Integrated Studies from Cambridge College, and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Education Leadership from Fitchburg College. He also earned an Education Leadership and Superintendency certification from Lesley University through the READS Academy and MSSAA.
John's primary goal is to improve student achievement and fiscal health in the Taunton Public Schools. He believes in research-based programs that enhance learning experiences and focuses on improving educational outcomes across all student demographics. John has a reputation for fairness, and his ability to create an engaging learning atmosphere is widely respected among peers, students, and families. He is committed to integrating the district's core beliefs with daily practices, recruiting and retaining a high-quality, diverse staff, and ensuring the school's mission aligns with community values.
As Assistant Superintendent, John secured funding for Taunton Public Schools’ Family Welcome Center and Newcomers Academy, ensuring translation costs were included in the budget. As Superintendent, he partnered with Manet Community Health to open a school-based health center on the High School campus, inspired by his childhood experiences at a community health center in Fall River.
John is a fierce advocate for English-language learners, with Portuguese-speaking students often visiting his office to share their progress. His relentless pursuit of knowledge and improvement has earned him nominations for the ASCD Outstanding Young Educator Award and the NSBA "20 Leaders to Watch," as well as the MASBO Donald D. Johnson Efficiency Award.
Actively involved in several educational organizations, John is a member of the MASS Legislative Committee, MASS Urban Superintendents, READs Collaborative Board, and South Coast Educational Collaborative. He lives in Taunton with his wife, Cristina, and their two daughters. John is dedicated to maintaining and enhancing the quality of education and life in the community, welcoming challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation.
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.
A Message from Superintendent John Cabral