The following was compiled from a press release from the Wilton Public Schools.
Janet Nobles and Catherine Cellini have been named as Middlebrook School’s newest deans of students, filling vacancies left by Toby Kawaulicz, who will retire at the end of the June, and Nicole Querzé, who will be assuming a new administrative position in the district.
According to a press release sent by Maria Coleman, the director of human resources and general administration for the Wilton Public Schools, Nobles and Cellini “emerged as the successful candidates in a highly competitive search,” in which 66 applicants were considered for the positions and select candidates participated in a three-round committee interview process.
Nobles has been a choral and general music teacher at Middlebrook School for more than three decades. She also serves as the instructional leader for the STRIDE team and is the teacher-in-charge for Middlebrook School, a leadership role which requires her to serve in an administrative capacity as needed. During her time at Middlebrook School, Nobles has been instrumental in annual scheduling processes, has helped orchestrate school-wide events and initiatives, and has helped to develop student leadership programs like “Where Everyone Belongs” (WEB). Nobles earned a Bachelor of music degree in music education from the University of Connecticut, a Master of music in choral conducting from Central Connecticut State University, and a Master of education in educational Lleadership from Southern Connecticut State University.
“The committee’s endorsement is based, in part, on Mrs. Nobles’ strong record of success and commitment to the Wilton Public Schools and to the positive impact she has had on countless students, a trend that will undoubtedly continue in her new role,” Coleman wrote in the release.
Cellini is an experienced special education administrator. For the past three years, she has been a coordinator of pupil services in the Naugatuck Public Schools. In this district-level position, Cellini has helped oversee special education services at five schools, has planned and delivered professional development for staff serving in a variety of roles, and has helped reimagine efforts to improve service delivery models in special education. Prior to her current role, Cellini served as a special education coordinator at Daniel Hand High School in Madison, CT, and as a special education teacher at Fairfield Warde High School. Cellini holds two degrees from the University of Connecticut: a Bachelor of science in special education with a minor in English and a Master of arts in special education with a specialization in positive behavioral supports. She received her Sixth Year Professional Certificate in educational leadership from Sacred Heart University.
“Mrs. Cellini impressed the committee with her clear commitment to the success of all students, her creativity in problem solving, and her ability to develop clear plans to affect meaningful change,” Coleman wrote.
The release also stated that Nobles and Cellini “have a wealth of experience in the field of education, and their expertise will assuredly enhance the program at Middlebrook School.”
They will officially begin their new roles on July 1.