New Assistant Principal Appointed At Elementary School In Cheshire

CHESHIRE, CT — The Cheshire Board of Education appointed Jess Zanghi as assistant principal of Norton Elementary School at a special meeting on Monday night.

The appointment is effective Aug. 5.

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Zanghi brings “exceptional experience in elementary instructional leadership, literacy improvement, teacher coaching, school operations, and collaborative school leadership to Cheshire Public Schools,” according to a news release.

She will serve alongside Norton Elementary School Principal Jodie Roden.

Zanghi currently serves as assistant principal at Maria Sanchez Elementary School in Hartford Public Schools, where she has “led schoolwide instructional improvement efforts, implemented evidence-based literacy practices grounded in the Science of Reading, facilitated professional learning, and developed systems that have strengthened student achievement, school climate, and family engagement,” according to the news release.

Throughout her career, she has also served as a district English Learner coach, instructional coach, mentor, and classroom teacher, earning a reputation for collaborative leadership and an unwavering commitment to student success.

“Throughout the interview process, Jess consistently demonstrated the qualities we were seeking in our next elementary leader,” Cheshire Superintendent of Schools Jeff Solan said. “She possesses a deep understanding of high-quality instruction, an unwavering belief that every child can succeed, and the interpersonal skills necessary to build trust with students, staff, and families. Her experiences leading instructional improvement, supporting educators, and building strong school communities make her an outstanding addition to Cheshire Public Schools. We are excited to welcome her to Norton Elementary School.”

Read more from the news release below:

Zanghi’s appointment completes Cheshire Public Schools' elementary leadership team for the 2026-2027 school year, including the leadership structure that will guide students, staff, and families as the district prepares to open two new elementary schools this fall.

Principal Dr. Diana Burns and Assistant Principal Kathy Carlucci will lead Barnum School. Joining them will be Michelle Torres, who has been selected to serve as a lead teacher for the Early Childhood Center at Barnum School. In this role, Torres will provide instructional leadership while supporting the Barnum administrative team in overseeing the district's preschool program and partnering closely with staff and families to ensure exceptional early learning experiences.

A highly respected member of Cheshire Public Schools, Torres brings more than 25 years of experience in early childhood education and pediatric occupational therapy. She has served the district since 2008 as an occupational therapist at Darcey School, where she has been recognized for her expertise in inclusive practices, early childhood development, family engagement, Birth-to-Three transitions, and collaborative problem-solving. Her leadership, dedication to young learners, and deep understanding of developmentally appropriate practice make her uniquely qualified to support the district's youngest students and their families.

“With these appointments, Cheshire Public Schools has assembled an exceptional elementary leadership team,” Solan said. “As we prepare to welcome students into our new Barnum School and continue the outstanding work taking place across every elementary building, I am incredibly confident that our students, staff, and families will be served by leaders who are thoughtful, collaborative, and relentlessly committed to excellence. Together, this team brings the experience, expertise, and heart that will help our elementary schools continue to thrive.”

Cheshire Public Schools looks forward to welcoming Zanghi to the district this summer and celebrating the opening of both Barnum and Norton Schools with leadership teams committed to providing outstanding educational experiences for every child. Cheshire’s first day of school for students will be Tuesday, Sept. 8.