By Sydney Simpson – Editor-in-Chief

Jonathan Law’s new principal, Mr. Bryan Darcy, will begin leading the Law community on October 18. Darcy comes to Law from the Stratford school district, where his most recent position was Principal of Wooster Middle School. Darcy has 16 years of experience as an educator in Connecticut which includes roles as Business Teacher, Athletic Director, Department Head, Assistant Principal, and Principal. Advocate Editor-in-Chief Sydney Simpson interviewed Mr. Darcy about his upcoming transition to Jonathan Law. 

Sydney Simpson: Why did you decide to come to Jonathan Law?

Mr. Darcy: I decided to apply for the position of Principal of Jonathan Law because I heard there was a tremendous sense of community and support in the building. It seems to be a school where student voices are heard and staff works closely to ensure you get the best high school experience possible. It’s a family and community that I can’t wait to join. 

SS: Which Law traditions are you most excited to be a part of? 

MD:  I’m most excited to see and be part of the school spirit that is alive and well at Law. I want to be involved in activities, athletic events and extracurricular activities with the students. It’s great to see the support you provide for each other. 

SS: How will your past experiences in the educational field prepare you for taking on the role of principal here at Law?

MD: I’ve been a High School Business Teacher, Department Chair, Athletic Director and Assistant Principal – all at the high school level. I’ve also been a Middle School Principal over the past 6-plus years. These experiences have allowed me to see student growth and development during the middle and high school years. It’s also allowed me to build strong relationships with every stakeholder group. That is something I can bring to Law as well. 

SS: What is one important thing that the staff and students here should know about you?

MD: The most important thing all students and staff need to know is that I’m in this for all the right reasons. The most important thing is to support every student. I never give up on anyone and I’ll do whatever it takes to make all students feel heard and supported. 

SS: What is one message you would want to relay to the seniors at Jonathan Law?

MD: I want seniors to know that I’m dedicated to making their last year at Law the best I can given the current circumstances with COVID. I will listen and learn from you likely more than you’ll learn from me over the next few months. 

SS: What is one message you would want to relay to the freshmen at Jonathan Law?

MD: I want freshmen and all underclassmen to know that I’m here to support all of you. I want you to look back at your high school career 5, 10, 20 years from now with a smile on your face. I want you to feel that you are part of the Law family and understand the positive impact you will have in Milford and beyond. 

SS: What are some of your short term goals?

MD: The biggest short term goal is to build positive relationships with students and staff. I’m coming into a great school environment and I’m the “new kid in school” who has to absorb as much information as possible to support all stakeholders. I have an open door and an open mind, so I’ll need to learn and hear from everyone. 

SS: What are some of your long term goals?

MD: My long term goals are to set up supportive systems within the building that add to the already positive climate in the school. 

SS: What are some of your outside of school interests?

MD: My outside interests include spending time with my two girls, Cora (7) and Brea (5), along with my wife. We spend a lot of time outdoors and playing sports together as a family. I’m also a huge Yankees fan and enjoy watching games with family and friends. 

SS: To you, what does it mean to be a Lawman?

MD:  I haven’t started yet, but I think being a Lawman has a lot to do with growing into a positive person who has an impact on other peoples’ lives. It’s holding yourself and others to a higher standard. I start on October 18th and I can’t wait to have students like yourself define what it truly means to be a Lawman for me and our community.