May 6, 2022
It is with great pleasure that the New Canaan Public Schools announces the appointment of Trish Gracia as the new Assistant Principal of West Elementary School!
Trish has been a valued member of our school and district community for 17 years. She began her career at NCPS as an Elementary teacher at West School, where she also served on the Instructional Leadership Team. In 2014 she became a Math Specialist at West School, and she has been serving as West School’s Interim Assistant Principal since October 2021.
In a competitive pool of strong applicants, Trish distinguished herself in many ways, including her knowledge of the curriculum, understanding of the teaching and learning process, dedication to West School and the NCPS, and, most importantly, her love of students and our work. Trish lives our district belief that “we’re doing the most important work on the planet,” which she demonstrates every day with her “can-do” approach. Jan Murphy, principal of West School, shared, “Trish stepped right into the role in October and never looked back. She cares deeply about our students, colleagues, and school, and I am thrilled that she is joining the administrative team at West.”
Dr. Luizzi thanks the eleven (11) members of the interview committee, which included representation from the Board of Education, parents, district administrators, building administrators, teachers, and the NCEA. Additionally, he shares a special thank you with Darlene Pianka, Director of Human Resources, and the HR department: “Darlene and her team did a fabulous job throughout this process; thanks to their great work, and the commitment of our interview committee and administrative cabinet, we are proud to promote one of our distinguished teacher-leaders into this administrative position. As Assistant Principal, Trish’s positive impact at West will be amplified even more, and I look forward to the great things Jan and Trish will accomplish together at West in the years ahead.”
