PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Frances Rabinowitz, CAPSS, (860) 236-8640, frabinowitz@capss.org
November 22, 2025
Jeffrey Newton Named 2026 Connecticut Superintendent of the Year
EAST LYME, Conn. — [November 22, 2025] — The Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS) is proud to announce that Jeffrey R. Newton, Superintendent of East Lyme Public Schools, has been selected as the 2026 Connecticut Superintendent of the Year.
With more than two decades of service in public education, Jeffrey Newton has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to student success, instructional excellence, and community engagement. Since 2015, he has led the East Lyme Public Schools with integrity, innovation, and a steadfast dedication to fostering both academic achievement and the social-emotional well-being of students.
“It is an honor to recognize Jeffrey Newton for his extraordinary leadership and impact on Connecticut’s students and educators,” said Fran Rabinowitz, Executive Director of CAPSS. “Under his guidance, East Lyme Public Schools has become a model of collaborative leadership, continuous improvement, and student-centered learning.”
A Career Marked by Excellence and Collaboration
Prior to his current role, Jeffrey Newton served as Superintendent of Hebron Public Schools from 2013 to 2015, where he cultivated a districtwide culture of high expectations and continuous improvement. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles in Westbrook Public Schools as Director of Special Services, and in Montville Public Schools as Principal and Assistant Principal at Dr. Charles E. Murphy School and Mohegan Elementary School.
Jeffrey Newton began his educational career as a special education teacher in Norwich, bringing compassion, creativity, and a deep understanding of diverse learning needs to the classroom, qualities that have continued to define his leadership philosophy.
Throughout his tenure, Jeffrey Newton has been recognized for fostering a positive district climate, strengthening community partnerships, and ensuring transparency and collaboration in district governance. He is known for his hands-on approach to supervision and evaluation, strong ethical standards, and a deep belief in the power of teamwork among staff, students, and families.
Educational Background and Honors
Jeffrey Newton earned a Superintendent Certificate through the Executive Leadership Program at the University of Connecticut, a Sixth-Year Certificate in Educational Administration from Sacred Heart University, a Master of Science in Special Education from Southern Connecticut State University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Keene State College.
Among his many professional honors are the Dean’s Leadership Award in Education from Sacred Heart University, the Outstanding First-Year Principal Award, and recognition for Exemplary School Climate by the Connecticut Association of Schools.
He has also served as a Fellow in the Education Policy Fellowship Program and as an External K-12 Validator for the Teacher Evaluation and Development (TEVAL) Program.
Commitment to Leadership and Community
In East Lyme, Jeffrey Newton is celebrated for leading with authenticity and compassion, always prioritizing what is best for students. His emphasis on academic rigor, student well-being, and collaborative problem-solving has positioned the district as one of Connecticut’s most respected school systems.
Mr. Jeffrey Newton was formally recognized by CAPSS during the 2025 CABE/CAPSS Convention, held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at the Mystic Marriott in Groton, Connecticut.