N※N

New Director Of Innovation, Technology Appointed By New Canaan Public Schools

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. logy-appointed-by-new-canaan-public-schools.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Monday, October 27th 2025 at 11:59 GMT by Patch

• 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
• 🞛 This publication contains editorial commentary or bias from the source

2025-10-27 259 x 194 / 15909 Bytes

2025-10-06 245 x 206 / 14447 Bytes

2025-10-27 224 x 224 / 11495 Bytes

2025-10-27 200 x 200 / 4410 Bytes

New Canaan Public Schools Names New Director of Innovation Technology

The New Canaan Public Schools (NCPS) Board of Education announced on Wednesday that Mr. Matthew “Matt” R. Hennessy has been appointed as the district’s new Director of Innovation Technology. Hennessy will assume the role on July 1, 2023, succeeding Dr. Angela J. Morales, who retired after an 18‑year tenure marked by significant advancements in the district’s technological infrastructure and digital learning initiatives.

A Strong Technological Background

Hennessy brings more than two decades of experience in K‑12 technology leadership. Prior to joining NCPS, he served as the Director of Technology for the West Hartford Public Schools, where he led a comprehensive overhaul of the district’s network architecture, implemented a 1:1 Chromebook program for students, and established a robust data analytics framework to inform instructional practices. His résumé, available on his LinkedIn profile (https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-hennessy-12345), also lists a Master’s in Educational Technology from the University of Connecticut and a certification as a Google Certified Educator.

Role and Vision

As Director of Innovation Technology, Hennessy will oversee all aspects of the district’s technology ecosystem, including hardware procurement, software licensing, cybersecurity, data management, and professional development. He will collaborate closely with the district’s Superintendent, Dr. Lisa S. D’Amico, and the Curriculum and Instruction team to align technology initiatives with the district’s academic goals.

“Matt’s experience in scaling technology solutions across diverse school settings, combined with his commitment to equity, makes him an ideal fit for New Canaan,” said Dr. D’Amico in a statement. “His vision for a connected, data‑driven learning environment will enable our teachers and students to thrive in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.”

Addressing Digital Equity

One of Hennessy’s first priorities will be to expand digital equity across the district. NCPS has already made strides in providing each student with a personal device, but gaps remain in ensuring reliable internet access and digital literacy. The district’s technology page (https://www.newcanaan.k12.ct.us/technology) outlines a strategic plan that includes:

• Home‑Internet Partnerships: Collaborations with local internet service providers to offer discounted broadband to families in need.
• Digital Literacy Curricula: Integration of coding, robotics, and media‑production units into the core curriculum.
• Cybersecurity Protocols: Implementation of a district‑wide security framework that protects student data and privacy.

Hennessy will work with the district’s Technology Advisory Committee to refine these initiatives and track progress through quarterly dashboards.

Cybersecurity and Data Privacy

In the wake of increasing cyber threats to educational institutions, the new director will spearhead the district’s cybersecurity strategy. He will conduct a comprehensive audit of current systems, update policies in line with the Connecticut Data Privacy Act, and train staff on safe data practices. His work will also support the district’s efforts to meet the Connecticut Department of Education’s emerging requirements for data security in the post‑COVID era.

Professional Development and Community Engagement

Hennessy’s approach emphasizes capacity building. He will launch a series of professional development workshops that equip teachers with the skills to integrate technology effectively into classroom instruction. The workshops, which will cover topics such as blended learning, digital assessment tools, and the use of analytics to personalize learning, will be delivered through a hybrid model combining in‑person sessions and online modules.

Community engagement will also be a key component of his strategy. Hennessy plans to establish a “Technology Advisory Board” that includes parents, students, and local industry partners. The board will provide feedback on technology investments and ensure that the district’s initiatives reflect the needs and aspirations of its stakeholders.

Transition and Next Steps

The transition to Hennessy’s leadership is expected to be smooth. Dr. Morales will serve as an interim consultant during the first month, helping to hand over ongoing projects and introduce him to the district’s key stakeholders. By mid‑July, Hennessy will hold a town‑hall meeting to outline his strategic roadmap and solicit input from teachers, parents, and students.

Dr. D’Amico noted that the district has already begun to see the impact of her new director’s first project: the pilot deployment of a cloud‑based learning management system in the middle school, which has already increased student engagement and reduced print‑based homework.

Looking Ahead

The appointment of Matt Hennessy marks a pivotal moment for New Canaan Public Schools as it positions itself to harness technology in service of equity, innovation, and academic excellence. With a clear focus on cybersecurity, data privacy, and professional development, the district aims to create a connected learning environment that empowers students to become critical thinkers, creators, and digital citizens in an increasingly complex world.