Eastern Middle School Assistant Principal Announces Retirement

After serving 30 years as assistant principal of Eastern Middle School, James ‘Jim’ Shukie has announced his retirement.

His retirement is effective Jan. 26. During his tenure with Eastern, the school has been recognized as a Blue Ribbon School by the Department of Education and as a School of Distinction by the Connecticut State Department of Education, largely due to Shukie’s commitment to the academic success of each student, according to a statement issued by the school district.

EMS Principal Ralph Mayo said, “Jim Shukie is a passionate educator who has built deep connections within the Eastern Middle School community for the past 30 years. He has played a key role in the success of our school and has been a role model for both our students and staff.”

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Mayo added, “His ability to establish strong relationships with parents, teachers, and students has shaped the positive school culture that is present at EMS. It has been my great pleasure and honor to work with Jim; his commitment and dedication to the Eastern Middle School community will be greatly missed.” Shukie was appointed assistant principal in 1985 after 12 years of teaching in New Haven and Norwalk public schools.

Lora Parisi has been appointed as an EMS Assistant Principal after having served in the role in an interim capacity since the start of the 2014-2015 school year, while Assistant Principal Joanna Savino took leave. Effective Jan. 25, Parisi will fill the vacancy created by Shukie’s retirement, and Savino will return to her position as an EMS Assistant Principal.

Mayo said, “Ms. Parisi has proven to be an exceptional leader in her role as interim assistant principal. Her strong counseling background enables her to masterfully assist students in working through their academic and social-emotional concerns. She is adept at supporting staff in implementing instructional best practices, and is a collaborative leader, who honors and values the opinions of all constituents.”

Parisi began her education career in 2012 as a guidance counselor at Western Middle School. Savino began her teaching career in 2005 at Central Middle School.

Contributed photos: from left: Joanna Savino, Lora Parisi and James ‘Jim’ Shukie.