The Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) is pleased to announce that Lea DiStefano, assistant principal of Eli Whitney Elementary School in Stratford, has been selected as the 2026 Elementary School Assistant Principal of the Year. DiStefano was nominated by district colleague Lisa Saunders, who is assistant principal at nearby Nichols Elementary School.

Known for leading with empathy, purpose, and collaboration, DiStefano places relationships, student voice, and instructional excellence at the center of everything she does. Colleagues describe her as a leader who looks beyond numbers to truly understand children and their experiences. “Her warmth and care drive everything she does,” shared one staff member. “You can feel the love she has for every child and every family.”

DiStefano’s leadership has transformed school culture through initiatives that amplify student voice, including Student Council and Student Advisory, where students design and lead schoolwide projects that address real needs. One third grader called her “the best assistant principal in the world,” while another student said, “Just being near her, you feel better.” Even students who visit her office for behavioral issues often leave smiling, with one noting that “she helps us learn from every experience.”

As an instructional leader, DiStefano is widely respected for her collaborative, strengths-based approach. Eli Whitney Principal Robert Veteri credits her with “fostering a culture of professional curiosity, trust, and continuous improvement.” DiStefano launched Instructional Rounds and Lesson Study cycles that allow teachers to learn from one another and refine practice together. Her influence now extends beyond her school, as these models are being replicated across the district. One faculty member noted, “I am still learning and growing from her despite having been a teacher for 30 years.”

Families consistently describe DiStefano as a trusted bridge between home and school. “When I think of Lea, I’m reminded of how she sees my children as just as important as I do,” shared one parent. Another added, “She creates a sense of belonging—my child has graduated but still feels a deep connection to this school.” Through initiatives such as a schoolwide equity team, a care closet stocked with essential items, and inclusive events like Multicultural Night, DiStefano has helped build a community where families feel welcomed, valued, and proud to contribute. Says Veteri, “Lea has transformed how we work alongside families. She views family engagement as a true partnership and intentionally weaves families into the fabric of our school.”

A champion for student growth, DiStefano translated the district’s Portrait of a Graduate framework into age-appropriate, classroom-ready lessons that help students develop key competencies while ensuring teachers feel confident and supported in its implementation.

Reflecting on her leadership, DiStefano shared, “Relationships and trust-building are the foundation of everything I do. We figure things out together, push one another to grow, and keep students at the center of every decision.” As one staff member summed it up, “If there could be a Lea DiStefano in every elementary school, the world would be a different place.” Her recognition as Assistant Principal of the Year celebrates a legacy of care, excellence, and community that continues to shape her school and district.