Farmington Schools Name New Central Office Administrator

FARMINGTON, CT — With the current school year winding down this month, Farmington Public Schools has made a key hire in preparation for next school year.

School officials Tuesday announced in a release the appointment of veteran educator Melissa Sutton as its next supervisor of special services, effective July 1.

Sutton currently serves as director of student support services for Bloomfield Public Schools, where she oversees districtwide special education initiatives, compliance with federal disability laws, and budget and grant management.

She will join Farmington's leadership team at the start of the new fiscal year.

Farmington Superintendent of Schools Jess Giannini said Sutton's experience supporting students with diverse learning needs and her collaborative approach made her a strong fit for the district.

"We are pleased to welcome Melissa Sutton to our leadership team," Giannini said. "Her experience supporting students with diverse learning needs and her commitment to working closely with families and staff reflect the values that are central to Farmington's Vision of the Global Citizen."

Farmington Board of Education Chairperson Andrea Sobinski said Sutton demonstrated a strong understanding of special education programming, law and operations during the selection process.

"On behalf of the board of education, I am pleased to welcome Ms. Sutton to the Farmington Public Schools community," Sobinski said. "We look forward to the contributions she will make on behalf of our students, families, and staff."

Sutton said she was honored to join the district and emphasized her commitment to ensuring all students have access to high-quality educational opportunities.

"I am honored to join the Farmington Public Schools, a district known for its visionary leadership and dedication to excellence," Sutton said in a statement. "I am committed to a student-centered approach that ensures all students have meaningful access to high-quality education."

Sutton brings extensive experience in special education and student support services.

Prior to her current role in Bloomfield, she served as an assistant director, special education coach, and special education teacher.

She is also a board-certified behavior analyst and a certified trainer in collaborative and proactive solutions, a framework designed to support students with behavioral and social-emotional challenges.

She earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Saint Joseph College, a master's degree in early childhood education from Central Connecticut State University, a graduate certificate in applied behavior analysis from the University of North Texas, and a certificate of advanced graduate studies in educational leadership from the University of New England.

District officials said Sutton's appointment is expected to strengthen Farmington's efforts to support inclusive educational practices and services for students with specialized learning needs.

For more information on Farmington Public Schools, click on this link.