Farmington High School Principal Named Glastonbury Assistant Superintendent

Russell Crist will begin his new role on Aug. 17, Superintendent Alan Hurwitz announced.

By Chris Dehnel, Patch Staff

Jul 22, 2026 1:29 pm EDT

Russell Crist will begin his new role in Glastonbury on Aug. 17, Superintendent Alan Hurwitz announced. (Glastonbury Public Schools)

GLASTONBURY, CT — Glastonbury public school officials have appointed Farmington High School Principal Russell Crist as the town's next assistant superintendent of administration and personnel.

Crist will begin the position Aug. 17, Superintendent Alan Hurwitz announced.

The district selected Crist following a search that drew 49 applicants. According to the district, the hiring process included multiple rounds of interviews, a performance task and input from a committee of school, curriculum, department and central office leaders.

Crist has served as principal of Farmington High School, where he oversaw efforts related to staff recruitment, hiring, supervision, evaluation and professional development. He also led the transition into the school's new building and worked with district leaders on school security, budget planning, technology initiatives, facility improvements and the expansion of special education programming.

Hurwitz said Crist's leadership style made him the committee's top choice.

"Mr. Crist brings a mindset that aligns with the mission, core values, and beliefs that guide our work," Hurwitz said in a statement. "At a time of significant leadership transition across our district, he will provide the steady, thoughtful leadership our organization needs."

Crist said he looks forward to joining the district.

"I am truly proud and excited to join such a special school district," he said. "I look forward to working with the students, staff, families, and Board of Education to build on Glastonbury's tradition of excellence. I can't wait to get started."

Hurwitz said Crist will strengthen the district's leadership team while keeping students at the center of decision-making.

Crist earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of New Hampshire, a master's degree in teaching English from Quinnipiac University and a sixth-year certificate in educational leadership from Central Connecticut State University.