New School Principal Named In Milford

MILFORD, CT — Milford school officials announced the hiring of Danyelle Williams as the new principal of The Academy. Williams will replace Patricia Drew who has been serving as the interim administrator at the school for the past year. Williams will begin her post in Milford on July 1.

"Dr. Williams has had a stellar 20-year career as a professional educator and administrator in the Norwalk Public Schools, specifically in the field of special education," school officials said in a news release.

Williams spent the first 13 years of her career as a special education teacher at both Ponus Ridge Middle School and Brien McMahon High School in Norwalk. Her work with students focused on reading, comprehension, and math. She also served on the district’s assistive technology team and special education committee.

In addition to instruction, Williams served as a case manager for her students, ensuring appropriate services were delivered and student progress continued to build, officials said.

"She was instrumental in providing support to students as they moved from elementary to middle school, as well as those transitioning from middle to high school," Milford school officials said. "She also monitored students who were recommended for out-placement programs, as well as those who were returning from an out-placement appointment."

In 2013, Williams was appointed as the Special Education Department Chair at Brien McMahon High School where she led a team of 11 teachers and 10 paraprofessionals in case management and support for students with special needs. She continued to prioritize the bridging of information and transition for students moving into high school.

In 2016, Williams entered her first administrative position in Norwalk in the area of Specialized Learning and Student Services. The role would require her to supervise and evaluate the special education programming used throughout the district, as well as evaluate special education teachers across six schools.

Additionally, she was responsible for overseeing the district’s middle school behavioral program, working with students with emotional challenges. She also served as a liaison between the Norwalk Public Schools and Lindamood-Bell Learning Processes, a private learning center located in Darien.

Williams received her Bachelor of Science degree in psychology from Xavier University of Louisiana in 1997, with a minor concentration in African American studies. One year later, she completed her Master of Science degree in education.

In 2006, she received her Doctorate of philosophy in educational leadership from Bernelli University in Alexandria, Virginia, followed by the completion of her certificate in educational administration from Southern Connecticut State University in 2012. She is also a member of the Fairfield County Alumnae Chapter of the Delta Sigma Theta, Inc. sorority.

“I believe the three most important characteristics that any administrator can have are strong communication skills, setting high expectations for all, and having a strong level of compassion. I am ready to share my skills in these areas with my new school family and can’t wait to get started!” Williams said in a statement.

Anna Cutaia, Superintendent of Schools, said “Dr. Williams comes to us with a passionate heart for co-creating an environment where relationships are prioritized in service to ensuring all students are provided every opportunity to reach their goals. I look forward to welcoming Dr. Williams to our school community!”