BURRILLVILLE – A elementary school principal for the Burrillville School District will leave his longtime to post to take up the same job at another of the town’s public schools at the end of the academic year.
W.H. Callahan Principal David Brissette will transfer to A.T. Levy Elementary School, taking up a position left vacant by the retirement of Monica Tomson.
Brissette, a town native who graduated from Burrillville High School in 1985, earned his bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Norwich University, and a masters in instructional technology from Johnson & Wales University in 1999.
He began his teaching career with the Burrillville School District as a math resource teacher at Callahan in 1992, also serving as the district-wide technology information specialist. He was named principal of Callahan in July of 2006 and has remained there since.
“We all know Mr. Brissette. He’s well respected by staff, parents, families and everyone here in town,” said Supt. Michael Sollitto at School Committee meeting in announcing the news. “His ability to forge and maintain strong relationships with kids, with families, with community members is really a strength he’ll bring to Levy as he takes on this new challenge.”
Whether reading morning announcements in a wig and sunglasses, or getting covered in silly string to celebrate students’ reading achievements, “Buzz” as Brissette is known, has a built reputation for being an approachable school leader; a good sport, who also has a sense of humor. Outside of school, he has served as a member of the Burrillville Prevention Action Coalition.
“He certainly will be missed by his William L. Callahan family, but we know he will continue the many excellent initiatives happening at Levy each and every day,” said Sollitto.
Sollitto said he asked Brissette if he was willing to take the reigns at Levy.
“After careful consideration he”s agreed to do so, transitioning to this roll for next school year and beyond,” he said.
Sollitto said the district plans to conduct a “rigorous search” for a new leader for Callahan.
“Hopefully, we’ll have some really skilled and highly qualified people,” he said.
The change will officially take effect at the end of the school year in July, just as Tomson retires.
Great man, Burrillville should be proud to have him as a leader in the education program. Countless students have passed through the halls he’s been principal at over the last 20 years and the community and the people in it are better directly because of him. Cheers to you Buzzy! You’re going to be great for the Levy School! Best wishes.