Fall River Public Schools announces Kevin Bates as new principal of Carlton Viveiros Elementary School.

Fall River, MA – Fall River Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith announced Thursday the appointment of Kevin Bates as the next principal of the Carlton M. Viveiros Elementary School.

Bates brings more than 15 years of experience in education. He has served the Fall River Public Schools community in multiple leadership and instructional roles since first joining the district in 2012 as a special education teacher at B.M.C. Durfee High School through Teach For America.

Since 2024, Bates has served as vice principal at Matthew J. Kuss Middle School, where he helped strengthen instructional practices, student support systems, and school culture. His leadership included the creation of transition-focused student academies, the development of a Restorative Justice Center, and initiatives focused on student engagement, accountability, and achievement.

The appointment marks a meaningful return for Bates, who previously served as vice principal at Viveiros Elementary School from 2019 to 2023. During his time at Viveiros, he played a key role in strengthening instructional systems, social-emotional learning initiatives, and the school’s positive culture framework.

“Kevin is a collaborative and student-centered leader who understands the needs of our students, families, and staff,” said Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith. “His previous experience at Viveiros, combined with his strong leadership at Kuss, makes him an excellent fit to lead one of our district’s largest elementary schools. We are excited to welcome him back to the Viveiros community.”

Although his new role moves him just up the street from Kuss Middle School, Bates said the transition feels especially meaningful because of the strong connections he has already built within the South End community.

“Many of our students at Kuss came to us from Viveiros, so I am already familiar with so many of the students, families, and staff,” Bates said. “Fall River has truly become my professional home, and I am honored to continue serving this community as principal of Viveiros Elementary School. I look forward to building on the strong foundation already in place and continuing to support the success of every student.”

Originally from Windsor, New York, Bates said he enjoys spending time with his wife, two children, family and friends, especially by the pool or ocean, and proudly remains a loyal New York sports fan.

As principal, Bates will oversee the day-to-day operations of the Viveiros Elementary School while continuing to focus on high expectations, strong instructional leadership, and building a positive and supportive school culture for students and staff.

Bates will assume his new role on July 1st, 2026.