Hello Residents of Hampton,

It is with a great amount of honor that I introduce myself as principal of Hampton Elementary School. Although this is a new position for me professionally, this is a town that does not feel new at all.

I attended the Consolidated School and was a part of the transition to the “New School” in the early 1990s. I graduated from HES in 1993-94. The class portrait is proudly displayed in my office space. My grandfather was a teacher in Hampton in the 1960s and made a lasting impression on some of our community members. I have been told that “Mr. P. was the best,” by a few Hampton residents already. My mother and two of her sisters are educators and I knew that teaching was my calling from an early age.

I was fortunate enough to serve the districts of Hartford, Ashford, Canterbury, and Norwich before finding my place back in Hampton. I have taught grades 3-6 in all content areas with some years of specialization in science and reading and language arts. I was an instructional leader in Norwich and coached teachers, facilitated professional development, and worked with the Central Office on assessment and data analysis.

I hope to use my skills and experience in Hampton by contributing to the already successful educational experiences for our students. I believe in high expectations for all students, teachers as facilitators of learning, and classroom environments that support positive behavior and engagement. HES will have a few updates to the building and its protocols that will get us ready for the school year. I am excited to do some medium and long term planning with the town and school that supports our students, families, and community members.

The people of Hampton have been incredibly supportive and welcoming during my onboarding and I am grateful for every well-wish, smile, and handshake. I hope that I can give back to the town that has given me so much. I have been working with the Superintendent and the Board of Education to ensure a smooth transition into the new school year and I can’t wait to meet all of the children and staff.

Patrice Merendina