The Derby Board of Education Aug. 16 appointed Ray Coplin as the new Derby High School Assistant Principal.
He replaces Rachael Caggiano, who is now principal at Derby Middle School.
Coplin graduated from Trinity College with a bachelor’s of science degree in psychology in 2003. He has a master’s degree from the City University of New York and an intermediate administrator certification from Sacred Heart University.
Prior to starting his administrative internship with the New Haven Public Schools, he worked as a guidance counselor for New Haven. He was the recipient of the “Distinguished Leadership” award from CT College Summit School Partners & Peer Leaders.
He served in an alternative education setting providing support to the needs of the city’s most at-risk youth. He also volunteered in the adolescent mentoring program at the Boys & Girls Club of Hartford.
“We are excited about what Ray brings to the Derby School district,” Derby school board chairman Jim Gildea said in a prepared statement. “Ray has a strong background in working with and building relations with high school students. Ray comes to us having served as a guidance counselor, which will also serve our students well.”
Derby High School Principal Martin Pascale said “… Coplin is an outstanding addition to the Derby High School team. His desire to support the students and school community was evident throughout the interview process.”
““We are thrilled Ray has become a part of the Derby family,” Derby Public Schools Superintendent Matthew Conway said. “Ray joins us with the understanding that relationships matter and by building relationships and understanding what students need, students become more engaged in learning and the school.”
“Coming from school districts in New York City and New Haven, I very much am looking forward to making a “big city” impact here in a city perhaps a bit more compact, but rich in its storied history and huge with Derby pride,” Coplin said.
The position pays $118,372.41.
