RPS Hires New Ridgebury Principal, Mary Scalise

Ridgefield Public Schools announced today the appointment of Mary Scalise as the new Ridgebury Elementary Principal. Ms. Scalise comes to Ridgefield from the Darien Public Schools, where she has worked since 2006 as an Assistant Principal, Department Chair for Special Services, and a School Psychologist in Elementary and Middle Schools.

Ms. Scalise writes, ”I am excited and humbled to be selected as the next principal of Ridgebury Elementary School. Through the comprehensive interview process, it became clear that the Ridgefield Board of Education, District leadership, building-based staff, and community value social and emotional learning, supporting all learners, and ensuring academic rigor. My professional interests and beliefs align with these values.”

In a glowing recommendation, Dr. Scott McCarthy, Program Director for Special Education and Student Services for Darien Public Schools writes, “Ms. Scalise is a consummate educational leader and holds the distinction of being one of the most talented, hard-working, and student-centered administrators with whom I have had the privilege to work with in my career. She is respected and adored by the many families and colleagues with whom she works, and her ability to be a system-based thinker and leader while compassionately addressing the unique needs of every learner is unparalleled. The Ridgebury Elementary School community has won the principal jackpot.”

RPS Superintendent Dr. Susie Da Silva cited Ms. Scalise’s wide variety of experiences as central to the search committee’s hiring decision. Dr. Da Silva says, “Ms. Scalise’s four years as an Assistant Principal, five years as a special education leader, and eight years as a school psychologist make her uniquely qualified to lead Ridgebury Elementary. She has so much experience and shares the District’s commitment to students and families.”

Ms. Scalise writes, “My resume may not portray my deep passion for meeting children where they are and helping them move in a positive direction. I pride myself in my dedication to meet the needs of the whole child while supporting teachers, service providers, and specialists to create learning environments that allow each individual to grow, be challenged, and nurtured.” Ms. Scalise will start on August 1.

Welcome to RPS, Mary!

R
Submitted by Ridgefield, CT

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