When the school bell rings in August, some familiar faces in new roles will greet New Albany-Plain students and staff.
Superintendent April Domine has named Diana Smith and Steve Lesco as assistant principals at New Albany 2-5 Elementary School. Ms. Smith served as a second grade teacher at the school, while Mr. Lesco is the dean of students. They will work with Jen Denny, who was recently named the district’s 2-5 Principal and as well as the K-5 Head of School. The school leaders are charged with collaborating with staff to innovate and improve teaching and learning.
To achieve the district vision for the future and maximize existing resources, the district redesigned leadership positions in the New Albany 2-5 Elementary School. This past year, the school had two principals and a dean of students. The second principal position has been eliminated, and two assistant principal positions were created.
To provide continuing growth opportunities for New Albany-Plain Local teachers, the dean of students position will be posted as a three-to-five year rotating position. A staff member serving in this role will have the opportunity to return to the classroom after three-to-five years or go into a mentored one-year assistant principal role.
“We continue to provide opportunities for our staff to develop new skills and explore new roles,” stated April Domine, superintendent. “Both Diana and Steve have served the district well, using collaboration, communication and instructional skills to improve student learning, and enhance parent communication in the building.”
Throughout the interview process, the current New Albany Middle School Dean of Students, Elizabeth Gonda, exhibited exemplary administrative skills. Therefore, to assist with teacher evaluation and provide instructional leadership, the Dean of Students position will be eliminated and replaced by an Assistant Principal position, to be filled by Mrs. Gonda