Date: Fri 14-Jun-1996

Publication: Bee

Author: STEVEB

Quick Words:

Vitarelli-school-principal

Full Text:

with cuts: Good-bye Mr Vitarelli

B Y S TEVE B IGHAM

Since 1977, Sandy Hook Elementary School Principal Ron Vitarelli usually

drives himself into work each morning, but last Thursday, he arrived in a

limousine.

The longtime SHS principal will step down from his post this month after

nearly 20 years of service to the Dickinson Drive school. Parents, teachers

and students wanted to send him out with a bang. Last week's "Ron Vitarelli

Day" won't soon be forgotten by those who were a part of the celebration.

"It was an unbelievable day. One of the most exciting of my entire life," Mr

Vitarelli said. "I will never forget it."

The day started off normally enough for Mr Vitarelli who, along with his wife

Marie, awoke at their Middlebury home and got dressed for work. But when the

limousine driver showed up at the front door of the Vitarelli residence, the

regularity of the day began to get irregular.

The principal went outside to find members of his staff greeting him in front

of the house. During the limousine drive, Mr Vitarelli enjoyed coffee and

donuts as he took in the many sites seen so frequently during his trips into

school.

He arrived at Sandy Hook to a warm greeting of staff and students and a large

green sign which read "World's Greatest Principal...Mr Vitarelli." He was

literally given the red carpet treatment as he made his way into school. Those

who were there said the principal was somewhat awestruck by the attention.

Students from the staff of the Footprint Post handed Mr Vitarelli a brand new

copy of the monthly newsletter fresh off the press. Inside, photos and stories

on Ron's life from his wife and two sons. There are also quotes from students

and teachers about memories of their principal, a Mr V crossword puzzle, and

roving reporter question asking students what they'll miss most about Mr

Vitarelli.

"I'll miss Mr V's smile," said Christine Manfredonia.

During the day, Mr Vitarelli visited classrooms talking with students. As many

students pointed out, their fondest memories of Mr Vitarelli were when he

visited their classrooms.

Students also drew portraits of Mr Vitarelli complete with a variety of oddly

shaped and colored neckties. As most people who are involved in Sandy Hook

School will tell you, Mr Vitarelli is known for his endless selection of

"crazy" ties. In fact, students and staff all showed up at school last

Thursday wearing ties.

As part of the celebration, the Newtown High School jazz band stopped by to

perform for Mr Vitarelli and his students, a meaningful visit considering Mr

Vitarelli's well-documented support of the art program at the school.

As students filed out of school to board their bus, they were greeted by Mr

Vitarelli at the door.

"We love you Mr V," proclaimed one young boy.

While the event was planned specifically to honor Mr Vitarelli, it was also

for the kids.

As Sandy Hook School receptionist Joanne DiDonato pointed out, the Sandy Hook

School students also got to feel special to be a part of such a great day.

Because it was Ron Vitarelli Day, some students were a bit confused, figuring

it was their principal's final day. They were indeed pleased to see Mr

Vitarelli arrive back in school the following day; even though, this time, he

came in his own car.

A retirement party for Mr Vitarelli is scheduled for Saturday night at the

Stony Hill Inn.