Groton ― Anne Marie Mancini has hit the ground running this week as the district’s new assistant superintendent, said superintendent Susan Austin.

“I’m really excited to have her as a partner here in Groton,” said Austin. “She’s had years of experience as an educator and a lot of work, Pre-K through 12th, in curriculum and instruction, and the assistant superintendent position really is one that really focuses on teaching and learning and curriculum and instruction.”

Mancini started her career as an English and social studies teacher in the Newington Public Schools before becoming a teacher and department supervisor for the Capitol Region Education Council’s magnet schools.

She then worked to help expand the magnet schools, first as a curriculum specialist and then as the director of curriculum, instruction and assessment. After that, she was hired by East Hartford Public Schools as assistant superintendent and then deputy superintendent.

Mancini said that while she was East Hartford deputy superintendent, the state Department of Education recognized the district for having little to no learning loss after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Giving credit to staff, she said it was a “real team effort.” She said the district made sure teachers had the tools they needed to provide instruction during a difficult time. The district focused on “student-centered learning,” such as making sure students were engaged in discussions, while still observing safety protocols.

Mancini said she was interested in Groton for a number of reasons. She said she heard wonderful things about Austin, and she also wanted to help the significant number of military-connected students in Groton. Mancini’s grandparents served in the military during World War II and her uncle served in the Navy. She also heard wonderful things about the community from her brother-in-law who worked at Electric Boat.

Mancini said a focus of her career is on providing opportunities for students that they would not have had, if the school district hadn’t provided them.

She said she herself comes from a humble background. She said her parents, who were high school graduates but did not go to college, did everything they could for her, but weren’t always aware of certain opportunities because they didn’t have those experiences themselves.

She said she was fortunate to have had people in school who helped her find opportunities, such as encouraging her to take Advanced Placement classes or free community college classes.

Mancini said she wants to help the school district continue to develop partnerships with local businesses and organizations, so students, regardless of their background or what they want to do in the future, can experience internships.

She wants to continue to focus on improving student achievement for all kids so they can pursue their dreams.

Mancini, a West Hartford resident with a daughter in college and another daughter in high school, also works as an adjunct professor at the University of Saint Joseph to help people become teachers.

k.drelich@theday.com