Joel Barlow's McMorran Named Principal of the Year

EASTON, Conn. – Joel Barlow High School’s Head of School Tom McMorran said he immerses himself in Falcon Nation. He believes that is one of the reasons he was picked as the Connecticut High School Principal of the Year by the Connecticut Association of Schools.

“I believe I am not only a principal teacher, but also a principal student. Teaching and learning is about the relationship between caring adults and growing children. Education is not a bureaucracy but a community. It is my job to be part of that community,” McMorran said, who has been head of school since 2007.

Under McMorran’s wing, attendance has increased at athletic games, social events and in school clubs throughout the high school, which is shared by Easton and Redding. “I salute Dr. McMorran’s intellectual gifts, interpersonal sensitivity and moral grounding. These attributes combined with his commendable work ethic to secure the respect of an exceptionally talented faculty, [is] one that requires an authentic educator as their leader,” Superintendent of Schools Bernard Josefsberg said in an email.

In October, McMorran will head to Portland, where a reception will be held in his honor. His win as the High School Principal of the Year puts him in the running for the national High School Principal of the Year Award. Connecticut Association of Schools President Michael Rafferty commended McMorran for his prestigious achievement. “You have been an influential and respected leader in your school and community.”

When asked why he believed he was given such an educational honor, McMorran said, “I am wholeheartedly upbeat and optimistic about American public education.”

“I am inspired by the dedication of the staff and the zeal of our students to learn,” he said.

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