Outstanding Beginning Principal AwardAs part of its continuing efforts to recognize and celebrate outstanding educational leadership, the Rhode Island Association of School Principals annually honors the “First Year Principal” in the state. RIASP established this award in recognition of the excellent work done by those new to the principalship. Superintendents, central office administrators, principals, other building administrators and teachers may nominate for First Year Principal. All nominees must meet the following criteria: RIASP member currently, and having had been a member for one (1) full year Principal for one (1) complete year, therefore nominees are in their 2nd year as principal. PREVIOUS RECIPIENTS OUTSTANDING FIRST YEAR PRINCIPAL 2009 - Gail Dandurand - Narragansett Elementary School 2010 - Steven Morrone - Ashaway Elementary School 2011 - Janet Lyons - Austin T. Levy School 2012 - Lori DeSimone - Greystone Elementary School 2014 - Kathryn Tancrelle - Hopkins Elementary School 2015 - Michaela Keegan - Juanita Sanchez Education Complex 2016 - William Black - West Broadway Middle School 2017 - Jennifer Daigneault - Halliwell Elementary School 2018 - Mark DeCiccio - Samuel Slater Middle School 2019 - Maryann Crudale - Frenchtown Elementary School 2020 - Brian Gilmore - Birchwood Middle School 2021 - Chip McGair - South Kingstown High School 2022 - Frank Galligan - Warwick Neck Elementary School 2023 - Christine Lopes - North Smithfield Middle School 2024 - Dr. Patricia Page - East Greenwich High School | 2025 Outstanding New Principal Matthew Brown Vartan Gregorian Elementary Providence
When Matt Brown left his position as assistant principal at Bailey Elementary to take the helm at Vartan Gregorian Elementary he was not without his doubters. Many thought him too young and inexperienced to lead a diverse learning population that included 75 new students moving in as a result of school consolidation. He quickly dispelled any second thoughts about his leadership when he made targeted instruction and building an inclusive culture his chief goals. By drilling down data and using creative scheduling that took advantage of the skill set of his faculty he made sure instruction was geared toward every child's needs and strengths. This resulted in achievement growth for all four of the school's underperforming subgroups (Black, Hispanic, MLL, and students with disabilities). Mr. Brown’s leadership has yielded outstanding measurable results. Under his guidance, the school now boasts the highest student attendance, the highest academic performance, and the highest star school rating among all Providence elementary schools. These accomplishments are a testament to his strategic vision, data-driven decision-making, and the deep care he shows for the success of every student. A graduate of American International College, he started his career as a teacher in special education, he earned his MA degree in Urban Education at Providence College and qualified for his principal's certificate as a Principal in Training. |
