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Villanueva has replaced the retired Julia Horne as principal of Shelter Rock Elementary School. She served as the school's interim principal since the fall.
“Dr. Villanueva brings to this district tremendous knowledge and experience in the area of elementary literacy instruction, which I have identified as a core priority for the coming school year,” said Schools Superintendent Sal Pascarella. “Her work as an interim this year has earned her high praise from faculty, staff, colleagues and community members, and I am delighted that she will be leading Shelter Rock as its newest principal.”
Villanueva was previously the co-director of the Studies in Educational Innovation Program at Columbia University's Teachers College. She earned a bachelor's degree from York University in Canada, a master's degree from New York University and a Master of Philosophy in English and doctorate in philosophy in English education from Columbia University.
Epple will replace Edie Thomas, who will serve as principal of Broadview Middle School. She previously held principal positions in the East Hartford Public Schools, as well as Newtown and Brookfield.
“We were particularly fortunate to find someone of Dr. Epple’s experience and caliber to lead Pembroke Elementary School,” Pascarella said. “She brings the wonderful combination of vast instructional knowledge with wide-ranging experience as a building principal overseeing a variety of programs and student needs in both urban and suburban environments. With Dr. Epple at the helm, I am confident that Pembroke Elementary School will continue its progress in solidifying strong student achievement in a rich learning environment.”
She received a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Western Connecticut State University, a Sixth-Year degree in administration from Sacred Heart University and a doctorate in Educational Administration from the University of Connecticut.
Both Villanueva and Epple will begin their new positions July 1.
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