Assistant Principal Connell

Mr. Connell has been with Westerly Public Schools since 2016 having joined the administrative team at Westerly High School in 2023. In his role as Assistant Principal, he oversees the English, Special Education, World Language, Social Studies, and School Counseling departments. He also coordinates the school’s Advanced Placement (AP) program, Virtual High School (VHS) coursework, and student support services—including 504 plans—for the Classes of 2026 and 2028. Mr. Connell is the co-chair of the WPS District Attendance Team.

Mr. Connell brings a variety of experience to WHS, having served as an assistant principal at Westerly Middle School, Northern Lincoln Elementary, and Monsignor Clarke School. His leadership has focused on building strong school cultures, supporting student growth through Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS), and mentoring new educators. Before moving into administration, he taught middle school social studies in Westerly and at Monsignor Clarke School, where he developed curriculum and coordinated experiential learning opportunities.

In addition to his work at WHS, Mr. Connell is actively involved in educational leadership across the state and currently serves as Treasurer for the Rhode Island Association of School Principals. He holds a Master’s Degree in School Administration from Providence College and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Political Science and Secondary Education from the University of New England.