By Sarah Morgan
Beginning July 1, New Canaan Public Schools will welcome Ms. Laura Newell as the District’s new Visual and Performing Arts Director. Ms. Newell will spearhead the development of art, theater, dance, and music programs and curriculum for grades K-12.
“We are delighted to welcome Ms. Newell to New Canaan Public Schools,” stated Superintendent Bryan Luizzi. “Her extensive background, visionary leadership, and dedication to arts education make her the perfect fit for our Visual and Performing Arts program. We eagerly anticipate the contributions she will make to our district,” he continued.
Laura holds a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies (Sixth Year) in Educational Leadership from the University of Connecticut and is pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) from Kansas State University. Additionally, she earned a Master of Music Education from the University of Hartford and a Bachelor of Music in Music Education from the same institution.
Ms. Newell previously served as the K-12 Arts Coordinator at Greenwich Public Schools. In this role, she was instrumental in implementing the district’s comprehensive K-12 Arts Curriculum and overseeing Visual Art, Theater, and Music programs across 16 schools. Prior to her experience in Greenwich, she worked as the K-12 Supervisor of Fine and Performing Arts at East Hartford Public Schools, where she played a pivotal role in curriculum revision and mentorship initiatives.
Before transitioning to administrative roles, Ms. Newell taught Piano, AP Music Theory, and Band at East Hartford High School. Actively engaged in professional organizations, she is a member of the National Association of Music Education (NAME), the National Art Educators Association (NAEA), the Connecticut Music Education Association (CMEA), and the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD).
“I am honored and thrilled to join New Canaan Public Schools as the new Visual and Performing Arts Director,” expressed Laura. “I am eager to become a part of the NCPS community and look forward to collaborating with students, staff, and the community to foster a love for the arts,” she continued.
Acknowledging the diligent efforts of the Human Resources Department and the interview committee, Superintendent Luizzi expressed gratitude for their role in the new Arts Director’s selection process. “I want to personally thank each of them for sharing their time and expertise with us and helping us identify and hire an outstanding professional in Ms. Newell. I’m excited for her to join our team in the months ahead!” he exclaimed.
Ms. Laura Newell’s appointment signals a bright future for arts education within the New Canaan Public Schools, promising an enriching experience for students in the coming school years.
