At last night’s Board of Education meeting, Cider Mill assistant principal Ellen Tuckner, on behalf of the school’s principal Jennifer Mitchell, recommended that the school’s library and media center be named the Virginia A. Rico Library and Media Center, in memory “Ginny” Rico, principal of the school from 2002 until her death this past June. She had been a teacher and administrator for the Wilton school district for nearly 35 years, most of which was spent at Cider Mill.
Speaking to the board, Tuckner said, “We believe that Mrs. Rico meets the criteria for such an honor based on the tenets set forth in the naming of district facilities policy which has been adopted by the Wilton Board of Ed. As you are well aware nearly all of her distinguished career as an educator was spent in Cider Mill School. Ginny was completely devoted to the entire Cider Mill community and as a teacher she was always open to new and exciting ideas to engage her students. As the leader of Cider Mill for the past 11 years, she touched every student, family and staff member who walked through its doors; a commitment to their well-being was always the guiding factor in the decisions that she made. Ginny’s commitment to the Cider Mill community was unfailing and was her great gift to all of us. We feel that naming this vital part of our school is a huge honor to our colleague whom we hold dear and in the highest regard.”
According to reports, the library name cannot officially be changed until a period of 90 days from the recommendation in order to give the community available time for feedback. Once that time period passes, the school and the Cider Mill PTA will hold a ceremony to commemorate the change.
Separately, Mrs. Rico’s family has organized a memorial service celebrating her life and career. It will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 16, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Rolling Hills Country Club. Members of the public who knew her are invited to attend to share their thoughts and memories.