New Principal Named For Naugatuck Elementary School

NAUGATUCK, CT — The Naugatuck Board of Education recently announced Lisa Romano has been named the new principal of Maple Hill Elementary School.

She will replace Cheryl Kane, who has led the school since 2004, according to a news release.

"The NPS team is incredibly excited to welcome Ms. Romano as the next principal of Maple Hill School," Superintendent Christopher Montini said in a news release. "Ms. Romano's student centered approach and passion for building cultures of positivity and growth will serve the Maple Hill Community well."

Romano began her career as a fourth grade teacher at Rotella Interdistrict Magnet School in Waterbury, where she was a 2020 Connecticut Teacher of the Year semifinalist.

She went on to earn her sixth-year certification in educational leadership in 2019 from the University of Bridgeport and became the talent and professional development supervisor for Waterbury Public Schools.

In that role, Romano designed and led district wide professional development, created a three-year equity plan, and supported new educators, according to school officials. She created pathways to certification for students and non-certified staff in partnership with TEACH Connecticut.

Most recently, Romano has worked as the Academic Academy Supervisor for an accelerated school within Wallace Middle School in Waterbury. During her year there, she significantly decreased chronic absenteeism, developed a STEM mentoring program that was featured in local media, and provided professional development to staff, district officials said.

Romano is currently working toward her doctor of education degree from the University of Bridgeport, which she expects to complete in December.