Greenwich Schools Chief Corda Comments on Hamilton Ave School Principal Departure

Hamilton Avenue School principal Cindy Rigling serves dessert at a Boys & Girls Club of Greenwich Thanksgiving event. November 2016. Photo: Leslie Yager

Hamilton Avenue School Principal Cindy Rigling announced on Wednesday her appointment as the Head of the Lower School for GEMS World Academy in Chicago, an International Baccalaureate World School.

Rigling’s last day with the District will be June 30, 2017.

The selection process for a new principal for Hamilton Avenue School will be determined after consultation with incoming Superintendent Dr. Jill Gildea, who by coincidence is coming to Greenwich from Chicago.

Dr. Gildea takes over from interim superintendent Dr. Sal Corda on July 1, 2017, but is spending time in Greenwich between now and her official start date. Corda said he will do all he can to ensure a smooth transition.

Ms. Rigling, who was appointed by former superintendent Bill McKersie in 2015, has been instrumental in implementing the school’s new STEM magnet program.

“Cindy Rigling provides a high quality education based on the individual needs of her students,” Dr. Corda said in a release Wednesday night. “She is a dedicated practitioner, ever thoughtful and curious about new ways to enhance instruction and improve outcomes for students.”

Corda went on to praise Rigling for ability to build relationships with parents, school staff, colleagues and the school community.

Ms. Rigling began her career in education providing support programs and counseling services for children and families at the Klingberg Family Day Program in New Britain, CT (1988-1990), the Boys’ Village Family Services in Milford, CT (1990-1992) and the Northwest Village School in Plainville, CT (1993-1998). From 1998 to 2001 she worked at the Thomaston Center School in Thomaston, CT, first as a School Counselor, Grade 4-6 and 9-12, then as Head Teacher for Grades 4-6.

GHS Headmaster and Hamilton Avenue Principal Cindy Rigling at the Boys & Girls Club Thanksgiving feast, No. 24, 2015. Credit: Leslie YagerSee also:

Hamilton Avenue School Principal Rigling to Depart for Illinois

Greenwich Board of Ed Appoints Dr. Jill Gildea New Superintendent