Laura Meka has been named the principal of West Hartford’s Morley School.

By Ronni Newton

When Ryan Cleary announced in June that he would be leaving Morley School after 14 very successful years for a central office role in another town, West Hartford Superintendent Paul Vicinus knew there would be big shoes to fill.

At the time, Vicinus said a “thoughtful and inclusive search process” for Morley’s next principal would begin, and following a comprehensive and competitive search process, he has now announced the appointment of Laura Meka to lead the West Hartford elementary school.

“Replacing an admired principal is never about finding someone exactly the same,” Vicinus said in a letter to the Morley community. “Rather, it is about finding a leader whose values, character, and vision are aligned with the community while bringing her own unique strengths to guide the school forward into its next chapter,” he said.

Vicinus described Meka as “an engaging, dynamic, and deeply student-centered leader who believes exceptional schools are built through strong relationships, meaningful collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to every child. She leads with heart, authenticity, and purpose, creating environments where students thrive, staff feel supported, and families are welcomed as essential partners in the educational experience. Throughout the selection process, Laura’s passion for children, thoughtful leadership, and genuine enthusiasm for joining the West Hartford community were evident.”

Meka was most recently principal at John Trumbull Primary School in Watertown, a role she had held since 2014. Previously she was an assistant principal at that same school from 2005-2014, following a decade teaching at the elementary and middle school level in Waterbury. She has a bachelor’s degree from UConn, and a master’s in teaching as well as her 6th year degree in administration and supervision from Sacred Heart University.

“Laura brings more than a decade of successful experience as an elementary principal, following several years as an assistant principal. Prior to entering school leadership, she taught kindergarten, first grade, second grade, and seventh-grade mathematics, experiences that have given her a broad understanding of teaching and learning across multiple developmental levels. Throughout her career, she has been dedicated to creating school communities where every student feels a sense of belonging, receives meaningful support, and is challenged to achieve their full potential,” said Vicinus.

He said that Meka’s appreciation for Morley’s culture really resonated with the interview team. “She spoke passionately about the school’s strong sense of community and its unwavering belief that all children can and will learn. She understands the responsibility that comes with leading a school so deeply shaped by its strong culture and shared values, and she embraces that responsibility with both humility and excitement. I am confident Laura will honor the traditions that have made Morley exceptional while building upon its many strengths and continuing its long-standing tradition of excellence,” said Vicinus.

Vicinus also expressed his “deepest gratitude” to Cleary for the success of his years of leadership at Morley. “Ryan’s impact on this community extends far beyond the many academic accomplishments realized during his tenure. Through his compassion, kindness, and unwavering commitment to children, he cultivated a school culture defined by belonging, trust, and genuine care for every student and family. His steady leadership shaped the lives of countless children and leaves an enduring legacy that will continue to influence Morley for years to come.”

Meka has already been meeting with Morley families, in preparation for the first day of school in West Hartford on Wednesday, Aug. 26.

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