Mark Ambruso, principal of Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School, has been named the 2022 Connecticut Middle School Principal of the Year.

Nominated by colleagues, Ambruso is credited for fostering a positive, safe and fun middle school environment for all students.

“Mark develops strong relationships with every student in our building,” says Renee Molnar, a guidance counselor at the school. “He goes out of his way to get to know something about everyone he meets. He makes you feel welcome and cared for and you leave any interaction with him feeling energized and motivated.”

Sponsored annually by the Connecticut Association of Schools and the National Association of Secondary School Principals, the recognition is designed to spotlight the achievements of individual school leaders and at the same time increase public awareness of the critical role that principals play in the education of youths. The program honors those who have demonstrated extraordinary leadership, a passion for educational excellence, a commitment to their students and staff, and service to their communities.

Ambruso joined Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School in July 2017 from Windham Technical High School where he was principal. Ambruso previously served as the principal, and before that as assistant principal, at Bacon Academy and as a science teacher and coach at Norwich Free Academy.

“I am humbled and honored to receive this award. This would not be possible without the collective commitment and exemplary efforts of my colleague and Assistant Principal, Noah Ventola, and Lyme-Old Lyme Middle School’s faculty and staff,” Amruso said. “I’d like to thank our wonderful families and amazing students.”