West Hartford Superintendent of Schools Paul Vicinus has announced that Katherine Leonard has been appointed the principal at Norfeldt Elementary School.

By Ronni Newton

The process of identifying Norfeldt Elementary School’s new leader has been underway since Principal Jen Derick announced in March that after 12 years as principal she planned to return to the classroom, and West Hartford Superintendent of Schools Paul Vicinus has announced the appointment of Katherine Leonard to the role.

“Katie brings contagious energy, a joyful spirit, and a wealth of experience to this role, including 13 years as an elementary school administrator and principal, as well as service as a district-level curriculum leader,” Vicinus said in a letter emailed to the school community. “She also brings extensive expertise in special education and a deep, genuine commitment to students. Her educational philosophy emphasizes creating a joyful, inclusive school environment that supports learning, belonging, and success for all students while strengthening the Norfeldt community.”

Katherine Leonard. Courtesy photo

Leonard has a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Salve Regina University, a master’s in reading and language arts from the University of Saint Joseph, and earned her Educational Leadership certification from Quinnipiac University. She also graduated from the Executive Leadership program at the University of Connecticut with a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in educational leadership.

Her most recent position was as executive director of innovation for Special Education for Hartford Public Schools. She has also served in the role of acting assistant superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction and as executive director of Literacy and English Language Arts K-12 in Hartford. Additional prior experience includes six years as principal of Breakthrough Magnet School North in Hartford, and 10 years as a classroom teacher and assistant principal.

“Katherine brings exceptional expertise in literacy, curriculum, and elementary education. Her experience as an early childhood and primary grades educator, combined with her leadership in curriculum and instruction, positions her well to lead Norfeldt into its next chapter of success,” Vicinus said.

He also expressed his “sincere gratitude” to Derick, who will be teaching at Whiting Lane this fall. “Her long-standing service to Norfeldt has been defined by a strong sense of community, outstanding student achievement, and a culture of belonging that has positively impacted generations of students and families.”

Leonard’s appointment as principal is effective July 1.

Other changes in leadership at West Hartford’s elementary schools for the upcoming academic year will be taking place at Webster Hill and Morley.

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