Meet the New NCHS Principal

has the "core beliefs that every student can excel if approached with care, creativity and an open mind," said New Canaan Superintendent of Schools Dr. David Abbey as he presented the new principal to the Board of Education at its meeting on Monday, May 23.

He added that Luizzi exhibited a, "terrific sense of humor as he went through the (interview) process." 

By way of example, Abbey shared that Luizzi included on his resume his experience as a "Dancing with the Stars" contestant for a Brookfield Education Foundation fundraising event. Luizzi learned and performed the paso doble before an audience that included members of his student body.

In his remarks, Luizzi stressed his plan to continue, "focussing on helping every student feel enfranchised by the work that we do...that they have a voice."

Speaking with Patch, Luizzi elaborated on the reasons he was drawn to the New Canaan community. "Throughout the process, I was very impressed by all the people I met. Love of district and pride in district," definitely stood out, he said.

"New Canaan has a strong tradition of excellence, which is noted and celebrated on the local and national level. But I was most attracted to that feeling of pride in the community, that feeling of ownership. People are involved and want to make it the best place it can be. I want to be a part of something that people are proud of and want to improve."

Regarding his goals for himself and New Canaan's high school he said, first and foremost, he wants to be the best high school principal he can be. 

Luizzi added that his first goal will be, "to learn as much as I can about the school, staff, community and students...to become a part of the community itself and work collaboratively with all the stakeholders."

When asked how he feels about stepping into the shoes of a very , Tony Pavia, Luizzi said he felt, "incredibly lucky to be coming to a school that values and honors the person who is principal."

"It's an honor to come in after Tony and to see the work he's done over the years. He's been very successful and it's a great opportunity for me to continue that work that's been done." 

As for personal plans, while not ruling out a move in the future, the new principal, his wife and daughters Josey, 9, and Mia, 7, plan to remain in Brookfield, the town where he was raised.