David Krafik has been principal of Park Avenue School for the past 10 years and during that time he has shaped the school and the students into valuable parts of the community. Jerfrey Martinez, a senior at Danbury High School has also been an integral part of the school community as an exceptional member of the Danbury Early College Opportunity program at DHS.
On Dec. 1, both were recognized by the United Way of Western Connecticut at a dinner at the Amber Room Colonnade in Danbury. A dozen people from seven area towns were recognized as “Hometown Heroes” and “Emerging Heroes.”
Heroes are individuals in the community who distinguish themselves through philanthropy and volunteerism.
Krafik is a Danbury native who attended Hayestown Avenue School and Broadview Middle School before graduating from DHS and attending Western Connecticut State University. He started his career in education as a substitute teacher holding several positions before becoming principal at Park Avenue. At Park Avenue, Krafik has made great strides not only academically by teaming with United Way for the kindergarten readiness program, but in making the school an integral part of the community. In June 2017, Krafik and his staff completed a community garden with vegetable beds and walkways – the project encouraged participation from families, and has been a way of connecting the school with others in the community.