Danbury Public Schools has named new principals to lead two of its elementary schools: Michelle Tarsi will take the helm at Mill Ridge Primary, and Ellen Paolino will head Hayestown Elementary.
Tarsi has served as the interim principal at Mill Ridge for the past year. Prior to that, she worked in a leadership capacity as assistant principal at Park Avenue School, in addition to working as a district numeracy coach and summer school administrator. She also taught at Park Avenue School for 14 years. She earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education, teaching and psychology and a master’s degree in Reading Teacher Education from Western Connecticut State University. She holds a Sixth-Year certificate from Sacred Heart University.
“Michelle is committed to ensuring that all students learn to their maximum potential and to fostering innovation through collaboration with teachers, staff, students and families,” said Assistant Superintendent Kevin Walston. “She is familiar with the traditions and successful practices at Mill Ridge Primary and will diligently continue in her official capacity as its principal.”
Paolino has served as principal of the Walsh School in Waterbury for the past seven years and as the interim principal of Rotella Interdistrict Magnet School prior to that. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the University of Hartford, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Central Connecticut State University and a Sixth-Year certificate in Administration from Sacred Heart University.
“Ms. Paolino impressed all of our interview committees with her education, her experience, her knowledge and her passion, and we believe that she is poised to lead Hayestown forward in the strongest way,” said Walston.
Both principals will begin their new positions July 1.