Dr. Bryan Luizzi, the New Canaan High School principal, was appointed interim superintendent of the New Canaan Public Schools by the school board this week. He’ll take over on July 1 for Dr. Mary Kolek, who is retiring on June 30.
“We sought to build upon what Dr. Kolek and the school district have created,” Board of Education Chairman Hazel Hobbs said. “We are excited to have an interim superintendent who can lead our high-performing school district in the continuous pursuit of excellence. Dr. Luizzi is an experienced leader with the skills and passion required to lead the district.”
“I am honored to be chosen by the board for this exciting opportunity,” Luizzi, who lives in Brookfield, said. “I feel it is essential for an interim superintendent to engage in a collaborative fashion with the school board, community, administrators, and staff to ensure a productive and successful school year. I am very grateful for this opportunity, and I look forward to the great work that the New Canaan Public Schools will continue to accomplish going forward.”
Luizzi has 18 years of experience in education, serving the last three as the high school principal. He began his teaching career at Newtown High School as an English teacher. He then served as the manager of technology operations for Newtown Schools. In this role, he used a systems-thinking approach to successfully design and implement technology initiatives to enhance student learning district-wide. He then progressed through a number of administrative positions in the Brookfield school system, culminating in his appointment as the principal of Brookfield High School, a position he held for 5 years.
Throughout his professional career, Luizzi has been engaged in higher education, according to a school district press release. In 2006, he completed his doctorate at Teachers College, Columbia University. Soon thereafter, he began teaching as an adjunct professor at Central Connecticut State University and at the University of Connecticut. In this role, he taught classes in school and district leadership, curriculum development and design, school climate and culture, and educational policy, among others.
“Dr. Luizzi has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the core beliefs and vision that define and guide the New Canaan Public Schools,” Kolek, who is retiring after two years as superintendent, said. “His strong working knowledge of the culture and strengths of the district and community will allow him, working in concert with the Board and leadership team, to enhance, expand and create initiatives designed to support and grow student well being and success. That Dr. Luizzi is willing to assume this responsibility on behalf of the community says much about his professionalism, work ethic, and dedication to New Canaan. I am confident his leadership will invigorate and inspire students, staff, and families as together all pursue next generation educational goals.”
Kolek has worked for the New Canaan Schools for 10 years, starting as assistant superintendent in 2004.
“Dr. Kolek has played a key role in many New Canaan success stories, including continuous gains in student achievement, all day kindergarten, expansion of the visual and performing arts, Chinese language study, foreign language in elementary schools, and an expanded use of technology,” Hobbs said. “Dr. Kolek has played a pivotal role in growing a mindset of collaboration and continuous improvement.”
The Board of Education will determine the process, which will include community input, to fill the permanent superintendent position in the fall. Gary Kass, director of human resources, will immediately begin the process to appoint an interim principal for New Canaan High School.
New Canaan High School Principal Dr. Bryan Luizzi discusses graduation and performance standards on Monday, April 7. (Aaron Marsh photo)