New Superintendent Appointed
Washington, CT – Region 12 Public Schools announces the appointment of Dr. Donald Schels as the District’s next Superintendent. Dr. Schels will assume that role on July 1, 2025. Speaking on behalf of Region 12’s Board of Education, Chairperson Jenn Pote wrote:
“Dr. Schels has been a dedicated leader in our district, serving as the principal of Shepaug for the past four years. His unwavering commitment to our students, staff, and families has made a lasting impact on our school community. His leadership, vision, and passion for education have inspired those around him, and we are confident that he will continue to guide Region 12 with excellence.
As we look to the future, we are excited for the opportunities that lie ahead under Dr. Schels' leadership. His deep understanding of our schools and his dedication to fostering a strong, supportive learning environment will ensure continued growth and success for all students.
Please join us in congratulating Dr. Schels on his new role. We look forward to working together to build an even stronger Region 12 community.”
Prior to serving as Principal at Shepaug, Schels was Associate Principal at Wilton High School, and taught history at Wilton and Danbury High Schools. He served on the faculty of the Department of Higher Education’s Alternate Route to Certification Program, as a social studies methods instructor and school law lecturer. Before becoming an educator, Schels practiced law for seven years as a civil litigator in New Jersey.
While accepting the Board’s appointment, Schels spoke about a mindset which values the District’s traditions, while also looking to germinate visions for change that move the schools forward. Schels called this mindset one of “continuity and change.” Dr. Schels’ remarks can be viewed here.
Dr. Schels read history and law (B.A.; J.D., Rutgers); American Studies (M.A., Columbia) and education policy and leadership (Ed.D., Fordham). His doctoral dissertation explored the relationship between academic competition and student achievement and wellness. That research was selected for presentation at the AERA Conference in Chicago, during the Spring of 2023. Schels feels it is important to study school climate and school policies in order to optimize learning conditions for our children.
January 3, 2025
Dear Region 12 Community Members,
The Region 12 Board of Education is committed to ensuring that our school district is guided by a Superintendent who embodies the qualities, skills, and attributes essential for the continued success and well-being of our students, staff, and community. As part of this important process, we invite you to participate in an online survey designed to gather your insights and perspectives.
Your input is invaluable to us. By sharing your thoughts on the characteristics and priorities that matter most, you will play an active role in shaping the leadership of our district. The feedback we collect will help the Board of Education identify the traits that align with our community’s vision for education and excellence.
Please rest assured that all responses will remain completely anonymous. This ensures that everyone feels comfortable providing honest and meaningful feedback.
We kindly ask that you submit your responses by Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at noon. The survey can be accessed via the following link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/F3KYB29
Thank you for your continued partnership and dedication to the success of Region 12 schools. Your voice is an integral part of this process, and we look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Jenn Pote Chairperson
Region 12 Board of Education
The search for a new superintendent of schools is well underway. The posting to seek potential candidates goes public on December 23, 2024.
Parent and community participation is an integral part of the search process. An online survey, designed to obtain participant information about the attributes, experience, and knowledge a candidate should possess, will be sent out to community members and stakeholders. The survey also provides an opportunity for participants to identify immediate tasks a new superintendent should address. The survey will be open in January 2025. Information about survey participation will be forthcoming in the next two weeks.
The Region 12 Board of Education wants and values your opinions. We hope you will take advantage of this opportunity to participate.
A message from the Board of Education.