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Administration

Carrie Lane

Administration

Carrie is a department secretary on the office team. Before Academy, she has previously worked with preschoolers and sixth graders and all grades in between. Carrie brings joy, creativity and a nurturing approach to the school community.

Francesca Palumbo

Administration

This is Francesca's first year at Academy School and she is so excited to be a part of the Academy family. The students, families and staff have greeted Francesca with open arms and made her feel so welcome. Francesca has been in education for 20 + years, the majority of this time as a special educator for students ranging from grades K-12. She started in education as a paraprofessional while working on her teaching degree. Francesca has also been a Title I teacher and a 504 coordinator, More recently Francesca served as a teacher leader, teaching mentor and a Dean of Students. She lives in Whitingham Vermont with her husband, Tom, and two dogs, Ruby and Mya. Francesca has two grown children, both are teachers and both recently married. She enjoys traveling, skiing, nature and cooking. Her favorite moments at school are building relationships and having lunch with students to learn about their interests and lives. Stop by and introduce yourself.

Kelly Dias

Administration

Kelly is thrilled to be the Principal at Academy School, where she attended grades K-4 herself! This is her 5th year as Principal, and her 18th year in the field of education. Prior to becoming Principal, Kelly spent a year as Assistant Principal at Academy. Before that, Kelly taught a range of grades from K-8 in RI, MA, and here in Vermont at Vernon Elementary School, Oak Grove Elementary School and Academy. Kelly's favorite part of the day is greeting students and families in front of the building.
When she's not at school, Kelly enjoys spending time with her husband, Dave, her daughter, Adria, and their three cats and dog; as well as her local family members. Kelly loves to spend time outside- walking and swimming in the warmer months, and cross country and downhill skiing in the colder months. She also loves to read! Kelly is so proud of the Academy School staff and family community, and she is looking forward to another great year ahead!

Mary Leary

Administration

Mary Leary started off her career at Academy School as a Paraeducator in January 2004. Initially working as the Library para she then moved into the classroom where she worked with first and second graders. In 2014 she took over as the After School Program Coordinator. A few years late she also took on the role of Healthy Snack Coordinator for Academy. Recently Mary took on a new role as the Administrative Assistant in the front office. She is very excited to help out the Academy community in anyway she can.

The administrative team works to support students and families, faculty and staff. Their mission is to provide the resources, tools, and information necessary to support the highest level of care and learning for all of the learners at Academy School.

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