Central Falls, Rhode Island — April 2015

CENTRAL FALLS, R.I. — The Central Falls Board of Trustees has named Victor Capellan as the new superintendent, pending final approval by state Education Commissioner Deborah A. Gist.
Capellan will replace Supt. Frances Gallo, who is retiring in June.

Capellan had served as deputy superintendent for transformation at Central Falls High School for four years and recently left the district to work for the nonprofit Mass Insight Education, a national education consulting firm.
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to welcome Victor back to lead our school district,” said board Chairwoman Anna Cano-Morales. “Victor played a critical role in transforming Central Falls High School and his deep connections with our staff, teachers, students, parents and wider community make him the ideal candidate to continue moving our school district forward.”
“Having worked next to Victor for years and seeing his dedication to improving our schools, I know that he will be an excellent superintendent,” Gallo said. “Victor was instrumental in implementing several successful transformation programs and community partnerships, and under his leadership as superintendent I know he will continue to improve results for all of our students.”
“I am humbled by the opportunity to serve as the next Superintendent of the Central Falls School District,” Capellan said in a prepared statement. “Following in the footsteps of Dr. Gallo and all that she has achieved for our students will be no easy task. But I learned from the best and I know that by working with our entire school community, we will continue the transformation of our schools so that all of our students receive the education they deserve and graduate ready for college and career success.”
If approved by Gist, Capellan will begin work as superintendent on June 29, and he’ll work closely with Gallo in the transition.
Mayor James A. Diossa said he has seen “Victor’s dedication to our students firsthand and I know that our community will welcome his leadership as the next superintendent of the Central Falls School District.”
“While I was a student at Central Falls High School, Victor played a big part in my success,” said David Hernandez, Central Falls High School valedictorian in 2012 who attends Brown University. “He believed in me and believed that our entire school could improve. I know that same dedicating and caring will make Victor a great superintendent and inspire Central Falls students to success.”

– Dan McGowan & Linda Borg

This article originally appeared on wpri.com and providencejournal.com.