Don’t call it retirement. It’s just a new beginning.
Primary Elementary School Principal Mrs. Mary Anne O’Connell, who first came to the Westmoreland Central School District nearly 25 years ago, “retired” on April 1.
Mrs. O’Connell joined Westmoreland in 1997 as an elementary special education teacher. She eventually became the Director of Pupil Personnel before returning to the school where she once taught to serve as Primary Elementary Principal, as well as the Coordinator of Special Education for the district – positions she held for the last eight years. 
While Mrs. O’Connell is excited about what the future has in store – and being closer to her three children and two grandchildren – the Westmoreland Central School District will always hold a special place in her heart.
“It has honestly been such a joy to watch this district develop over the years,” said Mrs. O’Connell. “When I came here, things were just beginning to blossom, and now it’s such an honor to have worked for a district that is so well respected. We have good people who are really great at what they do.”
According to Mrs. O’Connell, Westmoreland’s strong reputation starts with its students and their families, which she describes as the foundation of the Westmoreland community and what makes it so appealing.
“The kids, their families and the community as a whole are outstanding and always so supportive,” said Mrs. O’Connell. “No matter what’s happening, our students rise to the occasion. We press them to think and perform, and by doing so, have established a nurturing environment for children, yet one with high expectations. I think that’s why Westmoreland is a great place to raise a family and go to school.”
Like any job, Mrs. O’Connell’s tenure wasn’t absent of challenges, or things education or professional development can fully prepare you for. She recalls the tragic loss of a second grade student to a car accident and, most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, Mrs. O’Connell says listening to your heart and always being willing to learn can help navigate tough situations and become resilient.
“Look at what we have done the past year,” chimed Mrs. O’Connell. “Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have fluctuated between remote and in-person instruction, but we did it like no other place. Yes, it has been challenging and takes thinking outside of the box, but our students and teachers did it. No matter what, our teachers are always going to do the right thing for kids, and our parents are so supportive because they know our teachers care about their students.”
Prior to coming to the Westmoreland Central School District, Mrs. O’Connell was a middle school and high school special education teacher at the Holland Patent Central School District and elementary special education teacher at the Rome City School District. Westmoreland Superintendent of Schools Mr. Rocco Migliori has worked alongside Mrs. O’Connell for just about her entire tenure at Westmoreland.
“During her nearly 25 years at Westmoreland, Mrs. O’Connell has touched countless lives and has served our community with 100 percent commitment and dedication,” said Superintendent Migliori. “However, most importantly, Mrs. O’Connell has been an advocate for all of our kids. She made it her mission to make sure every child in our community was treated fairly, equally and with dignity.”
“She will be greatly missed, but I know she’s eager and excited about her new role as a full-time grandmother,” added Superintendent Migliori. “I thank her for a wonderful 25 years and wish her well.”
Mrs. O’Connell, a Rome native, says the COVID-19 pandemic put the importance of family into perspective. She’s moving to Rhode Island where her son, daughter and both of her grandchildren live. Her other son, who lives in Boston, will also be closer.
Although she will have more time to spend with family, Mrs. O’Connell doesn’t plan to stop working completely. She hopes to continue her working relationship with the Public Education & Business Coalition (PEBC), an organization located in Denver, Colorado that works to prepare outstanding new teachers, help practicing educators become exceptional and shape policies that foster vibrant growth and lasting student success.
She will also be keeping a close eye on Westmoreland.
“The district is going to continue to grow,” said Mrs. O’Connell. “I will always stay in touch and will always be watching.”