Two newly hired elementary school principals will join the Danbury Public Schools beginning this 2017-18 school year.
Carmen Vargas-Guerara is the new principal of South Street Elementary School, and Christopher Roche is the new principal at the Academy of International Studies (AIS), a magnet elementary school with a Global Studies theme that draws students from neighboring towns and districts through lottery selection.
Vargas-Guerara is a graduate of Salem State College, where she earned both elementary and Special Education degrees. She later earned a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Cambridge College.
“With her vast experience working with diverse groups of students, including English Language Learners, Ms. Vargas-Guerara brings a special blend of building leadership and experiences to the South Street School community,” said schools superintendent Dr. Sal Pascarella. “We were impressed with her ability to balance the learning needs of all students, while also providing strong leadership and support to the faculty, parents and community members involved in her school.”
Roche is a graduate of Sacred Heart University; he earned his teaching certification from Texas State University and a degree in Educational Administration from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona.
“Mr. Roche impressed us with both his strategic vision for cultivating continued success at AIS and his willingness to roll his sleeves up to work alongside teachers for the benefit of all students,” said Pascarella. “We are excited to bring Chris on board.”
Both principals begin their new assignments July 1.