New Assistant Principal Appointed At New Canaan School

NEW CANAAN, CT — On Friday, New Canaan Public Schools announced Trish Gracia has been appointed the new assistant principal of West Elementary School.

According to a news release provided by the school district, Gracia has been a valued member of the New Canaan Public Schools community for 17 years. She began her career at NCPS as an elementary teacher at West School, where she also served on the Instructional Leadership Team.

In 2014, she became a math specialist at West School and has been serving as the school's interim assistant principal since October.

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Chosen from a competitive pool of strong applicants, Gracia distinguished herself in many ways, including her knowledge of the curriculum, understanding of the teaching and learning process, dedication to West School and the district and her love of students.

"Trish stepped right into the role in October and never looked back," West School Principal Jan Murphy said in a news release. "She cares deeply about our students, colleagues and school, and I am thrilled that she is joining the administrative team at West."

Superintendent Bryan Luizzi thanked the 11 members of the interview committee, which included representation from the Board of Education, parents, district administrators, building administrators, teachers and the NCEA.

He also shared a special thank you with Director of Human Resources Darlene Pianka and the HR department.

"Darlene and her team did a fabulous job throughout this process," Luizzi said in a news release. "Thanks to their great work, and the commitment of our interview committee and administrative cabinet, we are proud to promote one of our distinguished teacher-leaders into this administrative position. As assistant principal, Trish's positive impact at West will be amplified even more, and I look forward to the great things Jan and Trish will accomplish together at West in the years ahead."