West Hartford Resident Named Principal of Avon School

A West Hartford resident has been named principal of an Avon elementary school.

Jess Giannini was appointed principal of Pine Grove School after a special meeting of the Avon Board of Education Wednesday, according to a release from the district.

Giannini replaces Gail Dahling-Hench, who is leaving the district after six years for an appointment as assistant superintendent in Madison.

Giannini has served as assistant principal at Pine Grove since 2011 and before that spent 10 years as a teacher there. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from Westfield State College and his Administrative Certification from Central Connecticut State University. 

The search to replace Dahling-Hench began in May with a 10-member search and selection committee, which chose Giannini from an applicant pool of 25.

“Jess emerged as the top choice from a very strong candidate pool,” said Gary S. Mala, Avon Superintendent of Schools in the release. “We are pleased about his appointment given his articulated vision for leading Pine Grove School forward and his stated desire to utilize his leadership style to promote and advance the good work being accomplished at all levels.”

Giannini is scheduled to begin in his new role July 1.