Connecticut Technical Education and Career System Names Michael Crocco as New Superintendent of Schools

HARTFORD, Conn. (April 24, 2025) — The Connecticut Technical Education and Career System (CTECS) is pleased to announce the selection of Michael Crocco as its next Superintendent of Schools, effective May 16, 2025. CTECS’ Superintendent is selected through a process of advisory board recommendation to the Executive Director.  

Crocco brings more than 20 years of experience in public education, including transformative leadership at both the school and district levels. Most recently, he served as principal of Southington High School, one of the state’s largest high schools, where he led a major structural shift—implementing a new master schedule for the first time in 30 years—and strengthened school-community relations through inclusive and transparent communication.

Earlier in his career, Crocco served as principal at Metropolitan Business Academy and Barnard Environmental Studies Magnet School in New Haven. He also held the role of Talent Director for New Haven Public Schools, where he led districtwide efforts to diversify the educator workforce, improve professional development opportunities, and increase teacher retention. Crocco’s commitment to educational equity is reflected in his work as an executive coach for new school leaders and his participation in the teacher evaluation and equity committees in New Haven.

A cornerstone of Crocco’s career is his deep expertise in special education. He holds a Sixth Year Diploma of Advanced Studies and a Master of Science in Special Education from Southern Connecticut State University.

“My father built a stable life for our family after training in HVAC at a Connecticut technical high school,” said Crocco. “That experience showed me how technical education can open doors, foster independence, and change the trajectory of a family. What drives me now is the opportunity to ensure every student in CTECS has access to that same transformative path. Just as importantly, I want to support the educators and staff who make this vision possible—by investing in their growth, honoring their expertise, and creating the conditions for them to thrive.”

“Michael’s vision and collaborative leadership are exactly what CTECS needs to continue evolving and equipping students for the careers of the future,” said Executive Director Alice Pritchard. “I’m grateful to the board superintendent search committee for their thoughtful and diligent work in recommending such a strong candidate.”

“Michael stood out for his leadership qualities and clear understanding of how career and technical education shapes both individual futures and the state’s workforce pipeline,” said Paul Lavoie, Chair of the board superintendent search committee. “His leadership experience and commitment to aligning education with industry needs will be invaluable as CTECS continues to grow its impact across Connecticut.”

To ensure a smooth and effective transition, Crocco will work alongside Interim Superintendent Freeman Burr during a transition period leading up to his official start date.

CTECS extends its sincere gratitude to Interim Superintendent Burr for his leadership during the 2024–25 school year and for laying a strong foundation for continued growth across the district.

Please join us in welcoming Superintendent Crocco to the CTECS community. We are excited about the leadership he will bring to our system and look forward to the vision and energy he will contribute as we continue building opportunities for students across Connecticut.