New Assistant Principal Named At Farmington HS

FARMINGTON, CT — When Farmington High School opens for the next school year, it will be in a brand-new state-of-the-art building.

And roaming the hallways of the bright, shiny pillar of Farmington's culture and education will be a brand-new assistant principal.

Farmington school officials Wednesday morning announced the appointment of veteran Mansfield educator Jeffrey Russell to the position of FHS assistant principal.

His term starts July 1.

Russell comes to Farmington with experience and expertise in curriculum, instruction, assessment, instructional coaching, and operations within the E. O. Smith High School community.

Located in the Storrs section of Mansfiel near the University of Connecticut campus, E.O. Smith is a regional high school serving Mansfield, Willington, and Ashford.

Farmington Superintendent of Schools Kathleen C. Greider said Russell's knowledge, experience, and dedication to education were clear.

“Throughout the search process, Mr. Russell consistently exhibited a strong knowledge and commitment to student-centered learning aligned to our Vision of the Global Citizen," she said.

"His dedication to continuous improvement in the areas of teaching, learning, achievement and student well-being will support and build upon the innovative improvement work underway at Farmington High School."

Farmington school board chairman Bill Beckert said Russell is an "individual who is quick to step forward to address an issue or work in collaboration with others to innovate in order to arrive at a better outcome for his students."

FHS Principal Russ Crist said he welcomes Russell to the team.

“We are very happy that Jeff Russell will be joining Farmington High School as Assistant Principal," Crist said. "Mr. Russell brings a deep commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that promotes the success of all students."

Russell expressed enthusiasm about his appointment.

“I am thrilled to be joining the Farmington Public Schools team," Russell said. "Farmington is at the forefront of ensuring an equitable learning community for all students evidenced by the work done in the Vision of the Global Citizen.

"My work and previous experiences align well with the direction of Farmington High School and the school district. I cannot wait to begin working with all members of the school community to ensure the continued success of Farmington's students.”

Russell earned his bachelor’s degree in math education and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from UConn in 2013. In 2024, Russell obtained his sixth-year diploma from UConn in education administration.

Since 2013, he has been a mathematics teacher at E.O. Smith.