The Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS) is pleased to announce the selection of the 2025 Assistant Principals of the Year. Laura Dixon, a West Haven resident, is among the three winners this year.
An assistant principal of John Barry Elementary School in Meriden, Dixon was nominated for the award by her superintendent, Dr. Mark Benigni, and chosen for “her exceptional leadership, dedication to equity, and commitment to fostering a safe, inclusive, and high-achieving school community.”
“I am continually impressed with her strong leadership, collaborative style, and clear focus on improving academic outcomes for her students,” says Benigni. “I have learned much from Laura and Meriden is a better district because of her.”
“I am deeply honored and humbled to be named Elementary Assistant Principal of the Year,” said Dixon upon hearing the news of her selection for the award. “This recognition belongs to Meriden’s parents, students, colleagues, and all those whose lives I’ve had the privilege to impact and who, in turn, have inspired me every day.”
Dixon’s has been touted for her “balanced approach—firm yet fair—has earned her the respect of students, staff, and families alike.” CAS said in the announcement, her tireless work ethic and a “how can I serve you” philosophy, she has made a lasting impact on the John Barry community and has helped the school achieve recognition as a School of Distinction, ranking in the top 10% of schools in the state for performance growth.
Dixon was cited for helping to “build a welcoming and nurturing environment at John Barry, which provides much-needed social and emotional supports while also ensuring academic success for her students.
“She is insistent that instructional practices are rigorous and aligned with state standards but allows flexibility for each child’s unique needs and challenges,” the CAS announcement stated.
She summarized her wholistic approach.
“By setting a bar of excellence and providing the social-emotional tools needed to reach it, we can transform not just the academic outcomes for our students but their entire perspective on what is possible for their future,” says Dixon.
CAS said, one of Dixon’s hallmark accomplishments has been reducing chronic absenteeism at John Barry. By prioritizing attendance and collaborating with her attendance team, Dixon led targeted efforts that resulted in a remarkable 10% reduction in chronic absenteeism over two years.
Described by colleagues as a “ray of sunshine” and a “cheerleader who always has a smile on her face,” Dixon displays a radiant excitement about John Barry School and her role as its assistant principal. Infusing a spirit of fun and joy into the school culture, she has introduced initiatives such as morning jokes through “Funny Fridays,” which have boosted morale and created a welcoming atmosphere. Her ability to connect with students, encourage them to use their voices, and believe in their potential has inspired countless young learners to succeed.
Dixon, along with fellow elementary assistant principals of the year from throughout the country, will be honored by the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) at the 2025 National Conference on School Leadership in Seattle, WA, in July.