We are proud to announce that Nicole Jones, District Teaching and Learning Specialist, and Katherine Carboni, Grade 4 Teacher and Curriculum Design Team Member, have been selected as Fellows in the Connecticut State Department of Education (CSDE) Curriculum Leader Fellowship—a prestigious, statewide initiative focused on advancing high-quality curriculum and instructional leadership across Connecticut.
The CSDE Curriculum Leader Fellowship identifies and supports outstanding teacher leaders who demonstrate excellence in curriculum design, instructional practice, and innovative teaching. Through a series of professional learning experiences—including a launch and introduction, four virtual sessions, and two in-person sessions—Fellows work alongside state experts and collaborate with peers from across the state. Participants deepen their expertise in the Connecticut Model Curriculum while building the skills needed to inspire and guide meaningful, system-wide educational improvement.
Ms. Jones and Ms. Carboni were selected for their strong instructional leadership, unwavering commitment to student-centered learning, and significant contributions to curriculum development within our district. As Fellows, they will not only continue to enhance their own professional practice, but also serve as curriculum innovators and leaders who help strengthen teaching and learning across our schools.
“Nicole and Katherine exemplify the dedication, expertise, and collaborative leadership that drive meaningful educational improvement,” said Lisa Lamenzo, Executive Director of Teaching, Learning, and Leadership. “Their selection for this prestigious fellowship reflects both their individual excellence and our district’s commitment to high-quality curriculum and continuous growth.”
The CSDE Curriculum Leader Fellowship represents more than a professional learning opportunity—it is a growing statewide network of educational leaders committed to innovative curriculum design and instructional excellence. We are excited for the knowledge, insight, and leadership Ms. Jones and Ms. Carboni will bring back to our district as a result of this experience.
Please join us in congratulating Ms. Jones and Ms. Carboni on this outstanding and well-deserved achievement.

