West Hartford’s Superintendent of Schools has named Kelly Sousa Purcell as interim principal of Whiting Lane Elementary School.

By Ronni Newton

West Hartford Superintendent of Schools Paul Vicinus shared the news late last week that Karen Kukish, formerly the Whiting Lane Elementary School principal, was named principal of Sedgwick Middle School, and on Monday he named Kelly Sousa Purcell to fill that vacancy on an interim basis.

Kukish had been principal of Whiting Lane for a dozen years, and during that time was named a Blue Ribbon award-winning school and locally recognized six times by the Connecticut State Department of Education as a School of Distinction.

In a letter to the Whiting Lane community, Vicinus noted Kukish’s strong leadership, and said she created bonds with families and staff “that will last a lifetime and she has demonstrated and instilled a sense of belonging and value for determination, learning and growth. While her leaving is difficult, I hope you can wish her well in her search of new and different challenges in her professional career.”

Vicinus said Sousa Purcell, as Kukish’s successor, brings similar leadership qualities to the position, along with deep dedication and a passionate belief in the potential of every child. “We knew we needed a leader with a strong vision, excellent communication skills, and someone who holds students to high expectations balanced with caring and compassion,” he said.

Sousa Purcell is a native of West Hartford, and a Whiting Lane parent. She joined West Hartford Public Schools as a middle school literacy coach in 2016, and most recently was assistant principal at King Philip Middle School.

Sousa Purcell – who has a bachelor’s in elementary education from the University of Hartford, an MS in educational leadership with a concentration in curriculum from Central Connecticut State University, and a sixth year certificate in reading and language arts as well as an administrative certification from Sacred Heart University – began her career in education as an elementary school classroom teacher at the Noah Webster MicroSociety Magnet in Hartford.

“Her work in the district over the last several years has distinguished her as a rising talent with exactly the right skills and disposition to lead Whiting Lane on a continued path of excellence,” Vicinus said in his letter.

“Kelly has a demonstrated record of leading with vision and compassion. She is a collaborative team player and an excellent communicator. Her leadership style is characterized by empathy, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Kelly’s approach is both strategic and compassionate, ensuring that every decision is made with the best interests of students and staff in mind. She inspires those around her to achieve their best and fosters a sense of community and shared purpose,” said Vicinus.

Sousa Purcell will be meeting with children, families, and staff of Whiting Lane over the summer to introduce herself and begin building those important relationships as she takes on the new role.

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