Committee introduces new principals for Tioga Elementary and Feinstein Middle School

The Coventry School Committee introduced two new principals: Carrie Litschka, named principal of Tioga Elementary School, and Jeff Guillot, named principal of Alan Shawn Feinstein Middle School.

Why it matters: Principals set building‑level priorities and influence school culture, staffing and implementation of district initiatives.

Carrie Litschka: Don Cowart described Litschka’s district‑wide experience and role in curriculum and instruction work. Cowart said the interview team unanimously selected Litschka for the Tioga principalship. Litschka told the committee she was ‘‘honored and humbled’’ to take the role; she said she missed the classroom and looks forward to building school community and supporting teachers to help every student ‘‘thrive academically, socially and emotionally.’'

Jeff Guillot: Cowart outlined the search process for the middle‑school principal and said Guillot applied through SchoolSpring. Cowart said Guillot is a Coventry resident whose children attend Coventry schools and that he brings experience as a teacher and administrator in Cranston, West Warwick, Woonsocket and as a central‑office administrator in Killingly, Conn. Guillot said he left central office to return to a school‑level role because he missed working with students and pledged to ‘‘give my all every day’’ and to lead a staff that delivers high‑quality instruction.

Committee reaction: Members welcomed both principals, noted their qualifications and expressed support for relationships that will help transitions between elementary, middle and high school.

Next steps: Both principals will meet colleagues and families during summer and early fall events; Cowart suggested the principals form working relationships with neighboring building leaders to support student transitions.