West Hartford Superintendent of Schools Paul Vicinus has announced that Michael Larkin has been appointed the principal at Webster Hill Elementary School.

By Ronni Newton

Webster Hill Elementary School, which was celebrated earlier this month as one of Connecticut’s six Blue Ribbon Schools, will be under new leadership as of July 1, Superintendent Paul Vicinus has announced.

Michael Larkin has been named the new principal, to “lead the next chapter of excellence at Webster Hill,” Vicinus said.

Michael Larkin. Courtesy photo

“Michael brings tremendous energy, presence, and a wealth of experience to this role, including 18 years as an elementary school principal,” Vicinus shared with the school community. “His talents as an instructional leader, commitment to fostering a positive school climate, ability to build meaningful relationships, and genuine care for students, staff, and families will not only contribute to his success but will further strengthen the exceptional learning environment at Webster Hill.”

Larkin, who has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Connecticut and a master’s in elementary education from Central Connecticut State University, is also a graduate of the Advanced Studies in Educational Administration program at Sacred Heart University and the Executive Leadership Program at UConn. He comes to West Hartford with experience as the principal of Hebron Elementary School (Hebron, CT) and prior to that was a principal in Ellington. He has previously taught elementary school in Marlborough and Vernon, and has extensive expertise in “responsive classroom practices, data-informed instruction, balanced literacy, and research-based intervention strategies,” according to Vicinus.

Vicinus expressed his gratitude and thanked Anthony Dávila, who has served as principal at Webster Hill for the past year, for fostering “strong connections with students and a genuine commitment to the care and well-being of the Webster Hill community.”

Vicinus said he is also “deeply appreciative” of the role that Assistant Principal Kate DeJulius – who will remain in her role – has had in providing “exceptional leadership, support, and continuity throughout the school’s leadership transitions over the past two years.” Former principal Melissa Behrens stepped into the central office role of director of Elementary Education in 2024, and Maureen Lantner served as principal on an interim basis for the 2024-2025 school year.

“I am confident that Mike and Kate will form a dynamic leadership team, and I look forward to the continued growth and success of Webster Hill under their guidance,” Vicinus said.

“Webster Hill is an extraordinary school with much to celebrate. The recent recognition as a Blue Ribbon School is a testament to the dedication of its staff, the leadership of its administrators, the partnership of its families, and the achievement and potential of every student. I am excited for Mr. Larkin to join the Webster Hill community and contribute his leadership to the school’s ongoing success and continuous improvement,” said Vicinus.

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