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Klara Monaco shared her tips shortly after taking over as Glenville School principal Aug. 5. Greenwich Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones announced her appointment this month.
Before Glenville Monaco was the assistant principal at New Lebanon School. She replaces Marc D’Amico who accepted the role of director of Curriculum for K-8 and head of K-5 Leadership for the Greenwich Public School District. Monaco also served as interim principal of New Lebanon School on two separate occasions in 2018-2019.
Monaco responded to an email Q&A asking why she wanted to join the district and for some advice to parents.
Why do you want to be the principal of this school?
"Glenville School is a tight-knit community with some of the best teachers in the district. I have had a wonderful experience as a parent of Glenville students and have been continually impressed with the staff’s dedication and high expectations for all."
"I believe I can help Glenville School continue with its trajectory of success and bring some new and bright ideas to enhance the learning experience for all children here."
What do you think is the most important way parents can participate in their child's school and/or education?
I strongly believe in creating meaningful partnerships with parents and schools. In order to create this partnership, parents need to be active participants in their child’s education. They can do this by talking to their children about what they are learning, setting up effective structures and routines within the home conducive to learning and most importantly, communicate regularly with their child’s teachers.
Two-way communication will help the parent be aware of their child’s learning strengths and weaknesses as well as inform the teacher of things within their home life that may impact their school day.
What special skill, interest, travel, experience have you had that might surprise children and their parents- they would think is cool to know about- their new principal?
I was born in Ireland! I lived there for one year before moving to the United States. Actually, all of my relatives still live in Ireland and I go back and visit them often.
Background/Special Ed
Prior to joining New Lebanon School in 2013, Monaco served as an educational evaluator for Greenwich Public Schools, where she served the special education community across the District. Prior to joining GPS, Ms. Monaco served in a number of roles including Adjunct Professor at Albertus Magnus College and PPS Team Leader for Harborside Middle School in Milford.
Monaco began her career in education as a special education teacher at Harborside Middle School and the Windward School. She has a Bachelor of Arts in history from Siena College, a Master of Arts in special education from the College of New Rochelle, and a Sixth Year Degree in Educational Leadership from Southern Connecticut State University.
"Her years as an assistant principal, interim principal and educator have formed her collaborative and innovative approach to leadership. She has been and will continue to be a trusted partner to her staff, students and parents, building a strong school community based on mutual respect and a common goal of student success,” said Jones in announcing Monaco's appointment.
"I am thrilled and honored to join the Glenville community. I look forward to partnering with the students, faculty and families as we continue our tradition of excellence and navigate these uncertain times together as a community," she said in the release.
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