Educator returning to Fall River Public Schools to become new Principal at John Doran Community School

Fall River Public Schools Interim Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith has announced the new Principal of the John J. Doran Community School, effective July 20, 2026.

According to FRPS, Julie Olobri returns to Fall River Public Schools, where she previously served as a classroom teacher for five years. She brings extensive experience in urban education, school leadership, educator development, and instructional excellence.

Currently, Olobri serves as an Education Specialist in the Office of Educator Excellence and Certification Services for the Rhode Island Department of Education, where she supports educator effectiveness and certification initiatives statewide. Before her work at the state level, she worked as a teacher and served as Manager of Educator Quality in New Bedford Public Schools.

“We are excited to welcome Julie back to Fall River Public Schools,” said Interim Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith. “It is always rewarding when talented educators choose to return to our district. Julie has valuable leadership experience at both the school and state levels. Her deep understanding of urban education, commitment to student success, and passion for supporting educators make her an excellent fit to lead the John J. Doran Community School.”

Olobri said she is eager to return to Fall River Public Schools.

“I am honored to join the John J. Doran Community School,” said Ms. Olobri. “Having previously worked in Fall River, I have seen firsthand the dedication of its students, families, and educators. I look forward to listening, learning, and working alongside the school community to ensure every student has access to engaging learning experiences, strong support systems, and opportunities to thrive both academically and personally.”

Olobri is a graduate of the National Institute for School Leadership Executive Development Program and a certified NISL facilitator. She holds administrator licenses in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island and has completed advanced training in instructional leadership, culturally responsive teaching, social-emotional learning, and collaborative problem-solving. She is also a co-author of the Rhode Island High-Quality Professional Learning Guide.

Olobri lives in Rhode Island with her husband, two children, and their Great Dane. Outside of work, you can find her on the sidelines of her children’s sporting events, enjoying New England summers, and relaxing at the beach.