Submitted by Pamela Hensel.
On Tuesday, August 3, the Regional School District #17 Board of Education appointed Mr. Jeffrey Wihbey as its next Superintendent of Schools.
Mr. Wihbey possesses an extensive background and a distinguished career in public education, most recently serving as the Superintendent of Schools for Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS), leading and advocating for more than 11,000 students throughout the state. His educational career began in the classroom teaching High School Social Studies before taking roles as a High School Assistant Principal, Elementary School Principal, K-8 STEM Magnet School Founding Principal, and Assistant Superintendent.
Accomplishments during his Superintendency at CTECS include leading the completion of a strategic operating plan, closing out seven major school construction and renovation projects on time and on budget, and collaboratively implementing a blended learning 1:1 student laptop device process and program across the state. Mr. Wihbey’s legacy with CTECS will include high school graduation rates that are among the highest in the state.
Mr. Wihbey is a collaborative and visionary educational leader who believes that every day, students, staff, faculty and administrators can improve over yesterday. Operating from this growth mindset, Mr. Wihbey focuses on building trusting relationships with all stakeholders, developing human capital, and effective teaching in every classroom, with the ultimate goal of ensuring success for all students.
Mr. Wihbey holds a B.A. in Political Science from the University of Connecticut, a M.A. in Teaching from Quinnipiac University, a Sixth Year in Educational Leadership from the University of Connecticut, and a Superintendent Certification from the University of Connecticut’s Executive Leadership Program.
Mr. Wihbey was selected from an applicant pool of 30 candidates. The process included nine first round interviews with three candidates advancing to the final round with the hiring committee. The hiring committee was composed of the Regional School District 17 Board of Education and five advisory members representing parents, administration, staff, Central Office, and the Superintendent’s office.
Suzanne Sack, Board of Education and hiring committee Chair expressed, “Jeff Wihbey is the right person at the right time to serve as RSD17 Superintendent. He has the necessary skill set and the appropriate focus, and it’s the right time in his career to invest deeply in the development and growth of our community’s children and the School District that serves them.”
Mr. Wihbey and the Board of Education have agreed to a three-year contract.
