2 New Principals Appointed In Middletown

MIDDLETOWN, CT — Middletown Public School officials Thursday announced the appointment of two new principals for the 2024-2025 school year.

After an extensive search and interview process, Amanda Martinez has been named principal of Spencer School and Orlando Ruiz has been named Principal of MacDonough School.

Martinez brings 14 years of educational experience to Spencer School. Her career began in special education and she advanced to leadership roles like SRBI Chair, PPT Chair, and grade-level leader.

She also served as a first-grade teacher, special education supervisor, and dean of students.

Most recently, she was a middle school principal in Hartford for four years.

Martinez said Spencer School's commitment to fostering "an inclusive and innovative learning environment" aligns perfectly with her educational philosophy, which emphasizes nurturing life-long learners.

Ruiz has 17 years of educational experience. He began his career as a first-grade teacher at Walsh Elementary School in Waterbury and then taught first-, second-, and third-grade English Language Development at Smith Elementary School in New Britain.

His administrative experience includes serving as an assistant principal at Lincoln Elementary School and Pulaski Middle School in New Britain.

Superintendent of Schools, Alberto Vázquez Matos said of the appointments, "We are excited to welcome Ms. Martinez and Mr. Ruiz to our district. Their experience and dedication to fostering inclusive and innovative learning environments will undoubtedly enrich our school communities. We look forward to the positive impact they will have on our students, staff, and families."