Manchester Elementary Schools Getting New Principals

The following is a press release from Manchester Public Schools. 

The Manchester Public School District announces the appointment of two principals, effective July 1, 2013.

Mr. Nicolas Jones, who is currently the principal of Simpson-Waverly School in Hartford, was appointed the principal of the Verplanck Elementary School.  He will replace Michael Saimond who is retiring.  Mr. Jones has held current position for the past six years.  He received his B.S. degree in liberal arts from American International College, his M.S. degree in elementary education from the University of New Haven, and his sixth year certificate in educational administration from the University of Connecticut. Under his leadership, his school was recently recognized by the Hartford Public Schools as one of the most academically improved schools.  

Superintendent Richard Kisiel said, “Mr. Jones is a respected instructional leader who has focused his leadership skills to close the achievement gap, create a positive school climate, and increase parent involvement in his school.” 

Mr. Michael Moynihan is currently the assistant principal at the Birch Grove Primary School in Tolland, Connecticut.  He has held this position for the past three years. Previously, he taught grades two and three in Windsor, Connecticut for eight years.  Mr. Moynihan received his B.S. degree in Early Childhood Education from Eastern Connecticut State University, a M.A. degree in elementary school education from Cambridge College, and his sixth year certificate in educational administration from the University of Connecticut.  

In announcing the appointment Superintendent Kisiel said, “Mr. Moynihan is dedicated to creating a positive school climate, open communication, and collaboration in helping all children be successful learners.”  Mr. Moynihan replaces Mr. Roland Axelson who is retiring as the principal of Waddell Elementary School.

Both principal candidates emerged from an original pool of forty-four applicants.  The search and appointment process included a thorough review of each application, an interview with the superintendent and a committee of parents, teaches, and administrators.