Marlborough’s next school superintendent says he is impressed by the city’s passion for improving its schools, and he is excited to come up with a plan to take them to the next level.

“A big part of it is getting to know the staff and faculty, the people,” said Richard P. Lang­lois, who was picked Saturday by the School Committee to lead the district. “You have to work collaboratively. Without that, it’s pretty hard to move the district. I always believe, build on the strengths and close the gaps, but you have to understand what those are before you do anything.”