Interim Assistant Principal Appointed At Julian Curtiss School

Information via Greenwich Public Schools

GREENWICH, CT — Greenwich Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones on Wednesday announced the appointment of Claribel Michilena as interim assistant principal at Julian Curtiss School, effective Oct. 1. She will assist Principal Eduardo Calderón supporting the entire Julian Curtiss community, aiding in the development and achievement of school goals and objectives, while advocating on behalf of all students, the school district said in a news release.

"Not only does Claribel Michilena have tremendous instructional expertise and almost two decades of experience in primary education as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, and district administrator, but she is also a Greenwich Public School parent with strong emotional ties to our community," Jones said. "Her dedication and passion for tackling challenges to help all children, especially those of unique backgrounds in culturally and linguistically diverse communities, is most impressive."

For the past 17 years, Michilena has been an educator in the region, most recently holding 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.

"Claribel Michilena brings to Julian Curtiss School a wealth of experience, passion, and unwavering dedication to student success," Calderón said. "Her commitment to fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment will undoubtedly enhance our entire community."

Michilen said that as "an experienced, goal-centered public school leader," her focus is on spportng high quality teaching and learning.

"I am honored to accept this role as interim assistant principal at Julian Curtiss School," she added. "I look forward to partnering with Principal Calderón and collaborating with families to foster an environment of equity, inclusiveness, and shared responsibility. By leveraging effective systems, we will work together to create a supportive learning environment that educates the whole child and develops the future leaders of tomorrow."

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, an Advanced Study: School Building Leader and School District Leader Certificate from the College of Saint Rose CITE.