I have been an educator in the Archdiocese of Hartford for nearly 30 years, first as a teacher at St. Lucy’s school in Waterbury and St. Francis of Assisi School in Naugatuck. For 14 years, I had the opportunity to grow as a teacher vice-principal at St. Francis of Assisi Schools in both Torrington & Naugatuck. I have been principal of St. Ambrose School since 2007. My own elementary high school and post-graduate education was in Catholic schools and my children attended Catholic schools. The gift of Catholic education has guided me throughout my personal and work career. It has allowed me to face life’s challenges and celebrations with faith, knowledge, and strength.

The academic strength of a Catholic school, while noted in standardized test scores and other assessments, actually lies in developing and implementing a curriculum that provides each staff member with the tools needed to encourage the student to be open to learning in both academic and non-academic areas. St. Ambrose has a cohesive team that works together to extend the students talents and abilities to the highest level possible. Our staff is always looking for professional development opportunities to enhance their skills and enrich their classroom environment.

Further strength lies in inviting the school community to join in the decades of tradition that has been Saint Ambrose. There are reading nights; fairs, pot luck dinners and may more events for the school community to come together and celebrate with the teachers and staff the successes of the students.

My tenure at St. Ambrose has been filled with learning experiences that continuously refresh my skills and remind me of just why I believe in Catholic education.

Principal Margaret Carabelli