Firm Hand Takes Helm of New Canaan School Group

NEW CANAAN, Conn. – As Jill Robey sees it, the New Canaan High School Parent Faculty Association is a “well-oiled machine.” So as she takes over as president, she sees herself as a conductor, keeping the orchestra on note and the music flowing smoothly.

“The school is in great shape, nothing needs to be fixed,” said Robey, who is succeeding Barb Achenbaum as head of the parents group. “I think we’ll be there to continue the success at the school.”

This will be the second time Robey, a New Canaan resident for five years and the PFA’s previous vice president of communications, will lead a parent school group. Several years ago she headed a parent-teacher association in Atlanta. Which is one reason she was asked to take over the parent group here, which coordinates several school events, including the popular post-prom party at Waveny Park.

Robey studied elementary education at Central Michigan University, but the business world called and she has worked 21 years at Merrill Lynch. Being involved with the PFA, she says, is a great way for her to apply her organizational experience and play a role in the education of her twin boys, Jack and Alex, 15, who will be sophomores at the high school.

“I’m not teaching, but it’s sending a clear message that education is important,” she said.

Robey’s primary concern going into the 2011-12 school year is making sure parents and the school’s administration communicate clearly. She also wants to make sure new principal Bryan Luizzi has plenty of support as he takes over from Tony Pavia. Robey plans to meet with Luizzi before the start of the school year. “It’s important to support the new principal and help him to have a successful experience,” she said.

In addition to being clear, communication between PFA members will be greener. Robey said the group’s memos and newsletters will all be distributed via email. “It will save in postage and printing costs,” she said.

What suggestions do you have for Jill Robey as she takes over as PFA president? Leave a comment below or on our Facebook page.

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