A Seymour principal with 25 years of experience has been named the new principal of Gillett Elementary School.
Amy McKeefry is expected to officially begin her new role on July 1, succeeding Curt Angeli, who is retiring after 35 years in the Gillett School District, the last 11 as elementary prinicpal. Her hiring was approved May 13 during a special meeting of the Gillett School Board.
McKeefry’s experience in educationincludes roles as a first-grade teacher, learning support teacher, and elementary and intermediate school principal. Most recently, she has served as principal of Rock Ledge Intermediate School in Seymour, where she has led efforts to build inclusive, high-achieving school environments centered on student success and staff collaboration.
The news release announcing her new position said her passion for education is rooted in her belief in the transformative power of schools and the importance of creating nurturing, inclusive environments where students can grow academically, socially, and emotionally.
“I am honored to be selected as the next principal of Gillett Elementary,” McKeefry said. “I look forward to partnering with our talented staff, engaged families, and incredible students to continue building a positive and inspiring school community.”
The district said McKeefry’s leadership style emphasizes:
● instructional leadership and coaching, grounded in data-driven decision-making.
● building strong, trust-based relationships with students, staff, and families.
● empowering teachers to differentiate instruction and provide personalized learning experiences.
● promoting social-emotional learning and celebrating student diversity.
● cultivating a safe, inclusive, and collaborative culture of continuous improvement.
The Gillett School District conducted a comprehensive two-month selection process that included input from students, staff, parents, and community members. Stakeholders were first engaged to help define the values and characteristics desired in the next principal.
Final interviews involved students, educators, parents, and community members in an effort to ensure the selected candidate reflects the shared priorities of the Gillett community, said Superintendent Nathan Hanson.
“Amy McKeefry is a proven and passionate leader who understands the power of community, collaboration, and student-centered learning,” Hanson said. “Her experience, values, and commitment to educational excellence make her an ideal fit to lead Gillett Elementary School.”
McKeefry holds a Master of Educational Leadership and a Master of Arts in reading and learning disabilities, as well as a bachelor’s degree in elementary education. Her licenses include principal, director of instruction, reading teacher, and learning disabilities specialist.
McKeefrey hired as Gillett Elementary principal
