Statement on the Resignation of Redding Elementary School Principal Natalie Hammond

Redding Elementary School Principal Natalie Hammond has resigned and will join Guilford Public Schools as Principal of A.W. Cox Elementary School

Redding First Selectwoman Julia Pemberton released the following statement:

Redding schools are a source of great pride for our community and are regularly recognized for educational excellence. In a few short weeks, our students will be heading back to school after a year of unprecedented challenges due to their educational, social, and emotional growth as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Dr. Hammond's resignation yesterday may cause parents concerns about the educational environment that will meet our youngest students when they return to their classrooms.

Redding Elementary School is a very special place. Our students will return to classrooms that are warm and welcoming with teachers who are among the best educators anywhere. I'm confident in the ability of our teachers and staff to provide the kind, caring and inclusive educational environment for our children that has always been the hallmark of Redding Elementary School. 

I have spoken with Dr. Tom McMorran who is currently serving as our interim Superintendent. He knows our district. He knows the high bar we set for educational achievement as well as the value we place on educating the whole child. He is in communication with a very experienced, very kind, retired elementary school principal about coming to Redding as interim Principal of Redding Elementary School.

We are fortunate to have Dr. McMorran guide us through this interim period, working closely with the Board of Education to assure Redding school system remains one of the best in Connecticut.