Paul Lucke
SEYMOUR – Whether he’s introducing robotics into the classroom, training staff in artificial intelligence or helping students find their way, Seymour High School’s Assistant Principal Paul Lucke makes it his business to help others succeed.
Because of his dedication to students and staff, Lucke was recently named Connecticut High School Assistant Principal of the Year by the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS).
Lucke, 48, was nominated by SHS Principal Jim Freund, who said Lucke was a no-brainer for the honor. He’s been at SHS since 2004, serving as assistant principal since 2007.
“Paul is one of the most creative and innovative people I know,” Freund said. “Over the past 20 years, he has been responsible for brainstorming and creating some of the most innovative programs we have at Seymour High School. He draws kids in, helps them find their passions and makes a difference in their lives every single day.”
Karen Packtor, CAS deputy executive director, said Lucke was selected from about 12 other nominees. She said a committee conducted site visits to the schools of the highest rated candidates and evaluated written applications.
Lucke, along with other top winners, will be honored by CAS at the “Celebration of Excellence in Educational Leadership” later this year.
Over the years, Lucke has secured more than $2 million in grants. He has brought new programs to SHS, including robotics, an emergency medical technician training course, manufacturing and engineering courses, and a partnership with Griffin Hospital where students are able to train at the hospital for certification in EKG, phlebotomy and certified nursing assistant jobs.
In addition, Lucke helped implement SHS’ Alumni Hall of Fame, grew the number of student clubs from seven to 17, and expanded the number of Advanced Placement and dual credit programs, which has led to an increase in the number of SHS students attending Ivy League schools. When he noticed a drop off in math scores during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lucke found grant money to hire additional math tutors at the middle school and high school.
Lucke said he’s always had an interest in learning and helping others succeed, which led him to pursue a career in education.
The Ansonia native earned his Master’s degree in teaching from Sacred Heart University, and two sixth-year administration certificates from Southern Connecticut State University. He began his teaching career in 1998 at Ansonia High School before ultimately landing at SHS.
The state award is icing on the cake for Lucke.
“This accolade is not just a recognition of my efforts, but a testament to the commitment of my staff and colleagues and the collaborative spirit of the entire Seymour community,” Lucke said.
Lucke has five siblings, who he helped raise with his mother. He said he always wanted to be a role model for his younger brothers and sisters.
“I was the first one on either side of my family to go to college and I wanted to have an opportunity to help other young people succeed and more especially those who may be experiencing difficulties while growing up,” Lucke said.
In addition to crediting his mother, siblings and the SHS staff, Lucke lauded his wife Melinda, and two daughters Autumn and Kali, for his success.
“My wife Melinda and I have been together since high school, and I certainly would not be where I am without her,” Lucke said.
Seymour Superintendent of Schools Susan Compton said Seymour is lucky to have Lucke on their team.
“Paul is one of the most intelligent and most visionary education leaders in the state of Connecticut,” Compton said. “He is absolutely an exemplary administrator and is the best of the best.”
