Dr. Alicia Roy to Retire from North Canaan Elementary School in 2024

Falls Village, CT (February 15, 2023) - At the North Canaan Board of Education Meeting On February 14, Dr. Alicia Roy, Principal of the North Canaan Elementary School, gave notice of her retirement effective June 30, 2024. 

Dr. Roy assumed the principal position on July 1, 2018 and has successfully led the school through the Covid-19 pandemic and its aftermath. 

Dr. Roy came to North Canaan Elementary School from New Fairfield Public Schools where she served as Superintendent for eight years, leading that district to many academic achievements in student-based learning, as well as defining the district’s mission, vision, and core values. Dr. Roy worked her way up to that position from Principal to Assistant Superintendent. Prior to joining New Fairfield Public Schools, she spent three years as a Vice Principal in Windsor, Connecticut. She has an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership from Central Connecticut State University, a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study in Educational Administration from Westfield State College, a Master of Science in Journalism from Ohio University and a Bachelor of Arts from Providence College. She has also received numerous awards and certifications throughout her career.

“Dr. Roy has been a strong and caring leader throughout her time at North Canaan Elementary School.” stated Region 1 Superintendent, Lisa Carter. “During the pandemic, she effectively addressed the need to protect the health and safety of her community while ensuring that all students were engaged in learning according to grade-level expectations. She has continued that work during this post-pandemic time. The staff and students are thriving, working together to ensure growth in student achievement as evidenced by State summative assessments. I deeply regret Dr. Roy’s departure, but wish her well as she plans for her future.”

Erin Drislane, The North Canaan Board of Education Chairperson, spoke about Dr. Roy’s tenure at the school by saying,”Dr. Roy has really taken our school to the next level. She works tirelessly to always put students first. It has been a pleasure working with her for the past five years. Her experience in education and her vast knowledge will definitely be missed.”

Dr. Roy commented on her departure by saying, “It is a bittersweet time for me to announce my retirement at the end of the next school year, after what will be 36 years as an educator.  I am proud to have been able to call North Canaan my home for the past five years. I am sad that my time working with the committed North Canaan Board of Education and Superintendent, the caring families, and the dedicated staff at North Canaan Elementary School and in the Region will soon be ending.  I am thankful for all of the support I have received and all of the accomplishments we have realized together.  I will always be an educator and will always have fond memories from North Canaan Elementary School.”

As part of a thoughtful plan that will ensure continuity of leadership and school operations, the North Canaan Board of Education has selected Beth Johnson to succeed Dr. Roy, beginning July 1, 2024. During the 2023-2024 school year, Ms. Johnson will work closely with Dr. Roy in the role of Assistant Principal to ensure a smooth transition.

Ms. Johnson expressed her excitement about her new role and stated, “I am grateful to the NCES Board of Education for the opportunity to work closely with Dr. Roy next year to ensure a smooth transition after her retirement.  I am looking forward to the opportunity to lead the school I attended, in the community in which I am proud to be raising my family.”