Shevon Hickey Appointed Principal at St. Brigid School

The St. Brigid School community learned Wednesday evening that a longtime teacher, who is also an alum and parent of an alum, has been appointed principal.

Shevon Hickey will officially assume the role on July 1, and in the meantime will be mentored by former principal - now assistant superintendent - Valerie Mara who stepped in as interim principal when Pam Belury resigned last week to explore new opportunities.

"I'm very excited," Hickey said about embarking on this new journey.

She may be new to the role, but St. Brigid School is in her blood. She has spent 13 of her 20 years teaching at St. Brigid's, and everyone in her immediate family has attended the school. "I even met [my husband] Tom here when he stole my hat in 4th grade!" she said. 

Hickey will focus on growing the school from the current 126 students in grades Pre-K3 through 8, while maintaining the small class sizes, as well as continuing to enhance its Catholic identity. "The curriculum and academics are very strong, but we need to emphasize the fundamentals," said Hickey, who believes that the school's faith basis and emphasis on kindness is one of its strongest attributes.

Hickey said her biggest challenge will be managing the business aspect of the school, but she feels she is up to the task and knows the staff will work with her as a team. "I can see across the board where we need to improve and what needs to say," Hickey said, and believes her years of affiliation in various roles provide that unique perspective.

There had been rumors of the school closing, and many positions have been a "revolving door," she said, but Hickey believes her appointment is a clear indication that St. Brigid will remain open. "This is the Monsignor, the archbishop, shouting from the rooftops that we are here to stay."

St. Brigid  School recently celebrated its 50th anniversary. Three open houses are planned during the next several weeks, and more information can be found on the school's website http://www.saintbrigidschool.org/.