Assistant Principal Appointed At Julian Curtiss School In Greenwich

GREENWICH, CT — Greenwich Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones this week announced the appointment of Claribel Michilena as assistant principal at Julian Curtiss School, effective July 1. She was named interim assistant principal on Sept. 11, 2024.

"In a short time, Mrs. Claribel Michilena has proven to be a committed administrator at Julian Curtiss School," Jones said in a prepared statement. "The interview committee, consisting of GPS senior administrators, teachers, and parents, were impressed with her passion for the Julian Curtiss community, her ability to connect with staff and families, and her dedication to the development and achievement of school goals and objectives, while advocating on behalf of all students."

For 18 years, Michilena has been an educator in the region. Prior to her time in Greenwich, she held the position of district education administrator for the New York City Department of Education’s District 9 in the Bronx where she oversaw instructional programs, developed curriculum, and advocated for student needs, especially for English Language Learners, for grades PreK-8 across 49 schools.

Prior to this role, Michilena was a classroom teacher in the third and fifth grades and a literacy coach at P.S. 28, the Mount Hope Centennial School.

"Since joining the Julian Curtiss community at the beginning of the school year, Mrs. Michilena has proven to be an exceptional addition to our leadership team and a perfect match for our scholars and families," Principal Eduardo Calderón said in a prepared statement. "Her collaborative spirit and personable approach have quickly earned the trust and respect of our entire school community through the meaningful relationships she has cultivated with staff, families, and scholars. Our continued partnership will strengthen our work in service of the Julian Curtiss community, ensuring every scholar receives the support and opportunities they need to thrive."

Michilena said Julian Curtiss "truly feels like home."

"My commitment remains focused on supporting exceptional teaching and learning for every student. Working alongside Principal Eduardo Calderón and our school community, we will continue to leverage effective systems that create a supportive learning environment, educate the whole child, and develop tomorrow's leaders," she added.

Michilena holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and elementary education from the College of Mount Saint Vincent, a master’s in Teaching Elementary Education from Lehman College, and an advanced study: school building leader and school district leader certificate from the College of Saint Rose CITE.