'Comprehensive Search' Underway For New Staples Principal

WESTPORT, CT — Westport Public Schools will be working with JE Consulting to conduct a comprehensive search for the next principal of Staples High School, according to Acting Superintendent Anthony Buono.

Buono sent an email to staff and families of Westport students informing them of the news last week. Concurrently, district officials will organize focus groups for staff members, parents and students to discuss and identify "important characteristics of an exceptional high school principal."

A profile will be developed once this has been completed and a school-based team will review applications and interview candidates. Buono said they anticipate this will occur at the beginning of June.

"The committee's charge will be to identify candidates suitable for further consideration by the Board of Education," Buono said in the email. "Later that month, the BoE will interview finalists and if all goes well a new principal will be appointed by the end of June."

James D'Amico announced on March 8 he will be resigning as principal of Staples High School this year and has accepted the position of principal at New Fairfield High School, his alma mater.

School officials said he is set to begin this new position on July 1 and would remain in his current position until the end of June. D'Amico has held the position of principal at Staples High School since 2016.