Very Familiar Face To Lead Southington High School

SOUTHINGTON, CT — To say Southington High School's next leader was a popular choice to take over as principal is quite an understatement.

When the Southington Board of Education motioned to appoint current SHS Grade 9 Freshman Academy Principal Richard Aroian to be the new principal, the crowd on May 23 erupted into applause.

Except, one thing hadn't happened yet.

"We have to vote. We still have to vote, C'mon. We still have to vote," Southington Board of Education chairperson Colleen Clark said laughing as her voice was drowned out by clapping.

"I think the people have spoken, but you still have to vote," said a chuckling Southington Superintendent of Schools Steven Madancy.

It was amid that atmosphere the veteran educator, who has worked in Southington for nearly four decades, was hired at a salary of $194,073 starting July 1. He will replace current SHS Principal Michael Crocco, who is stepping away to spend time with family.

"I would normally say, welcome to Southington, but since you've been here 38 years, would you come up and say a few words, please," Clark said.

According to Aroian, Southington was the school system he wanted to work for after graduating college in 1986 and it's where he wants to retire.

He spoke of a time a few years ago when a superintendent in another town, who he knew, asked him to apply for a principal job there, knowing that was a career aspiration.

"I said I don't want to leave Southington. I've been here my whole career. I've built community connections and relationships with the adults and the students and the families," Aroian said.

"I have no desire to leave this town. I love the town that I'm in and I want to finish my career here."

Aroian's professional journey started in 1986 after he graduated from the University of Connecticut with a history degree.

From 1986 to 2004, he was a geography/history teacher at Joseph A. DePaolo Middle School, also serving as soccer coach there until 2005.

Since 2004, Aroian has worked at SHS, first as a history teacher, where he also served in various departmental/school leadership capacities, and, since 2015, as an assistant principal.

He also coached girls' soccer and softball at the high school while teaching there.

Madancy said he was confident in Aroian's ability given his years of experience, especially working in Southington.

"This decision comes at a pivotal moment when all the foundational elements necessary for continued success and growth are firmly in place," Madancy said in a statement.

"We are poised to build on these successes, and I am confident that we will reach new heights under Mr. Aroian's leadership.

"During his tenure with the Southington Public Schools, Mr. Aroian has demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and a deep commitment to our school community. His vision for the high school aligns perfectly with our district's goals.”

Meanwhile, Aroian said he's ready to start with July 1 fast approaching after graduation next month.

"So I give you a heartfelt 'thank you' for giving me this opportunity to close out my career doing what I've always dreamed that I could do," he told the school board last week.

"I'm excited for the new year and I can't wait to get started."