Vernon School Board Names New Middle School Leader
VERNON, CT — At their recent meeting, the Vernon Board of Education collectively voted to appoint Melissa Luke as the new principal of Vernon Center Middle School.
The transition will take place on July 1. Currently serving as an assistant principal at VCMS, Luke will step into the role that David Caruso vacates when he departs to become the new school district superintendent in Bolton on the same date.
Luke has spent five years at Vernon Center Middle School. Prior to this, she served as the Mathematics Department Supervisor for the Simsbury public school system and, even earlier, worked as a middle school mathematics educator for 16 years. According to Superintendent of Schools Joseph Macary, Luke stood out among 32 applicants after excelling through multiple rounds of interviews followed by interactions with VCMS students, parents, and faculty members in focus group settings.
Melissa is the most suitable applicant and I believe she will excel in furthering the progress we’ve emphasized at Vernon Center Middle School—advancing students’ academic, social, and emotional growth daily,” Macary stated. “Her extensive background in this role adds significant value.
development of mathematics curricula, along with school and district evaluations
positive school climate practices.”
The chairman of the Vernon School Board, Paul Grabowski, commended the action.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to have Melissa step into her new capacity as principal at VCMS,” he stated. “During the interviews, her devotion to the Vernon community along with her drive for ensuring student success and accomplishment were truly impressive. With an abundance of experience and energy she’s bringing to this role, our students will undoubtedly reap significant benefits. We’re looking forward to continuing the excellent progress made at VCMS.”
Luke mentioned that she has achieved her dream through a career dedicated to teaching middle school students.
I’ve had this as my ultimate objective since I turned 20,” she stated. “It’s something I’ve consistently aimed for and desired to achieve. This is a significant milestone for both myself and the institution. I’m extremely thrilled about it.
Although certain educators and administrators—as well as parents—find the middle school years difficult, Luke stated that she sees them as a chance for growth.
She mentioned, ‘During my time teaching seventh and eighth graders, I cherished the sense of getting students ready for adulthood. It was very inspiring. There’s an opportunity to shape their lives and assist them in dealing with various challenges they encounter.’
When she was earning her master’s degree, she designed a program that focused on middle school students — who they are, how you teach them.
“The middle school level is unpredictable and that’s the best part of it,” Luke said. “Middle school students are still learning who they are. They are continuing to evolve, from one interest to another, one friend group to another. You can guide students and help them realize it’s OK to try a different interest.”
Before moving into administration in Simsbury, Luke taught in Thomaston, East Haddam and East Hartford.
She mentioned, ‘My journey has been a blend of rural, suburban, and urban environments, much like Vernon’s. All these varied experiences have prepared me to assist students from every possible location or background.’
She commented about Vernon, “I genuinely adore the community, the families, and the children as well as our team. They expressed enthusiasm upon learning that I will become the new principal, making me feel really great.”
As Caruso obtained her administrative qualifications, she served as a guide for Luke. She eagerly seized the chance to collaborate with him at VCMS.
“The school is well-managed,” he stated. “Over the last five years, Mrs. Luke has played a crucial role in VCMS’s achievements. As a diligent and passionate educator, she genuinely cares about her students and supports our team members so they can excel at their jobs. I feel honored with the progress we’ve made collectively, and I’m enthusiastic about the future prospects for both VCMS and Mrs. Luke now that she will be taking up her new position as principal.”
Luke mentioned that Bolton is fortunate to have Caruso at the helm of its educational institutions.
She expressed feeling down about his departure but was enthusiastic about the chance to keep advancing their efforts at VCMS.
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Vernon School District Names New Leader for Its Middle School
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