By Emma Barhydt
In an exciting development for New Canaan Public Schools (NCPS), the district has announced the appointment of Zoe Robinson as the new Principal of East Elementary School, starting July 1, 2024. Robinson will be taking over from John Grasso, who has been serving as the interim principal.
Robinson, who is currently the Assistant Principal at South Elementary School, has been recognized for her considerable contributions to the district over the years. Her leadership has been characterized by innovative approaches to education and a commitment to fostering an emotionally intelligent school environment.
Dr. Bryan Luizzi, Superintendent of NCPS, expressed his enthusiasm about Robinson’s new role, stating, “We are thrilled to introduce Zoe Robinson as the new principal of East Elementary School. Zoe has been an exemplary assistant principal at South School, and is a proven leader in our district. It’s exciting to consider the great things ahead for the entire East School Community with Zoe as principal!”
Throughout her tenure at NCPS, Robinson has played a pivotal role in implementing school-wide policies, facilitating instructional design for staff, and developing initiatives to support the district’s implementation of the RULER approach for Emotional Intelligence. Her efforts have not only improved the learning environment but have also equipped students with crucial life skills.
Robinson earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Brooklyn College, a master’s degree in Curriculum, Instruction, & Assessment from Walden University, and an Intermediate Administrator Certification from Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, CT. Currently, she is advancing her educational expertise by pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership, also from Walden University.
The selection process for the new principal involved a diverse committee of 16 members representing various stakeholders, including the Board of Education, district administrators, teachers, parents, building administrators, and members of the New Canaan Education Association. Dr. Luizzi praised the committee for its thorough and inclusive approach, saying, “We had a robust applicant pool for this position, and we put together an inclusive screening, interviewing, and selection process. Zoe has distinguished herself in countless ways throughout her time in the district, and I’m confident she’ll be an outstanding principal and educational leader at East Elementary School.”
Robinson’s experience includes roles as New Canaan Public Schools’ K-8 Math Coordinator, Math Specialist at West Elementary School, and Numeracy Instructional Coach for the Mathematics Department, PreK-8, in Bridgeport, CT. These positions have reportedly enabled her to make significant improvements in mathematics education across the district, enhancing student outcomes and teacher effectiveness.
As East Elementary School welcomes Robinson, the school community looks forward to a new chapter under her leadership.
Her official start date as Principal of East Elementary School is set for July 1, 2024.
