Region 15 Announces Appointment of New Principal at Rochambeau Middle School

 This past July, Region 15 welcomed a new Principal to Rochambeau Middle School (RMS).  Mr. Anthony R. Salutari, Jr., has taken over the reigns at the Southbury school.  While he plans to steer toward the same “FISH” philosophy established by his predecessor Mrs. Lauren Robinson, Mr. Salutari brings his own fresh views and experiences to build upon an established foundation.          

   All but one year of Mr. Salutari’s professional experience in education has been at the middle school level.  “The FISH Philosophy already adopted by the Rochambeau community fits perfectly in the middle school environment,” he explains.

   The principles of the FISH philosophy come from Pike’s Fish Market in Seattle, WA.  The goal of the employees there was to create a pleasant and supportive work environment.  The FISH Philosophy Principles are: Play!, Make Their Day!, Be There!, Choose Your Attitude!

   “In general, the four areas I focus on in school are safety, climate, expectations and accountability,” said Mr. Salutari.  “I completely support the middle school philosophy focused on creating a positive environment, meeting the physical, social and emotional needs of adolescents.  By doing so, I am confident each student will thrive academically and continually improve.”

   Mr. Salutari comes to Region 15 after serving as Principal of Thompson Middle School in North Grosvenordale, CT for the last three years.

   A graduate of Southern Connecticut State University, Mr. Salutari holds a Bachelor of Science in School Health Education, a Masters in Science in Comprehensive Special Education and a sixth year in Educational Leadership.          

   He began his career as a Health Education teacher at John Read Middle School in Redding, and North Branford Intermediate School in North Branford, before becoming Assistant Principal of Mary R. Fisher Elementary School in North Grosvenordale.

    “Mr. Salutari brings broad-based and productive experiences to Region 15 and will make significant contributions to the welfare of our children,” said Superintendent of Schools, Frank Sippy.  “We are confident that under his leadership RMS will continue as an excellent school.”

    Mr. Salutari reports a smooth transition into his new job.  “Beginning with the extensive interview process, the experiences at Region 15 have been outstanding,” he said.  “The amount of support I have received from staff, parents and students has been impressive.”

    "I truly believe the middle school years are an exciting and challenging time for adolescents.  The level of physical, social and emotional growth experienced throughout middle school is amazing,” he explains. 

    “The comparisons between sixth grade students entering middle school in August and an eighth grade student at graduation in June are indescribable.  I believe a highly effective middle school meets the needs of all students.”            

    Raised in North Branford, CT, Mr. Salutari currently makes his home in Clinton with his wife of six years, Kari and their two young children, Jake (5) and Brooke (2).  While Mr. Salutari enjoys many outdoor interests, his main focus in life is on his family and “being there for my kids,” he says. 

    The same holds true for his kids at RMS.  “My move to Region 15 as Principal of Rochambeau Middle School has clearly been a great one,” he said.  “As I am getting into more classrooms and meeting with students, I am working on getting to know each one on an individual basis.”

    Mr. Salutari invites members of the Region 15 community to stop by his office and introduce themselves.  He also welcomes any comments and/or suggestions you may have