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Behind every school day, a team of educators leads the way

Behind every school day, a team of educators leads the way

by Shannon Dufresne
 

As The Ursuline School prepares for the 2026–27 academic year, five faculty members will step into department chair roles across key academic areas. Drawn from within Ursuline's faculty, these leaders bring experience, continuity, and a shared commitment to supporting students and strengthening academic programs as the school continues its thoughtful planning for the years ahead.

In many ways, department chairs help guide the academic experience across campus. In addition to teaching, they support curriculum development, mentor faculty, and help ensure strong continuity within their departments.

The new chairs are:

  • World Languages — Adriana DeLucia
  • Math — Darlene Vallar
  • Performing Arts — Sylvain Falipou-Karkari
  • Science — Lauren Summa
  • Social Studies — Marie Barry '09

L-R: Adriana DeLucia, Darlene Vallar, Sylvain Falipou-Karkari, Lauren Summa, Marie Barry '09


Each brings strong classroom experience and a clear commitment to supporting both students and colleagues.

The appointments come as several faculty members take on new roles. Laura Barnett will transition fully into her position as assistant principal. Chris Bratt, who led Social Studies, and Jennifer Micceri '08, who chaired Science, will return to full-time teaching at Ursuline in the fall. Francesca LaGumina '78 will retire at the conclusion of the school year after many years of dedicated service to Ursuline. Rosemary Clarizio '89, who guided Performing Arts, will conclude her tenure at Ursuline after years of leadership within the department and broader school community.

Together, these accomplished educators have helped shape departments, strengthen academic programs, and support students across disciplines.

"Our faculty are one of Ursuline’s greatest strengths. Every day, our girls benefit from their talent, dedication, and care."
- Ms. Robyn Summa, principal

"Our faculty are one of Ursuline's greatest strengths," said Principal Robyn Summa '93. "Every day, our girls benefit from their talent, dedication, and care. Laura has been a terrific addition to our leadership team, and I look forward to continuing our work together. I am excited that Chris and Jen will continue sharing their expertise, passion, and commitment with Ursuline students in the years ahead. Francesca’s retirement marks the close of an important chapter for Ursuline, and Rosemary will be deeply missed. We are grateful for the impact both have had on our school community and on the generations of students whose lives they have touched."

As new department chairs step into these leadership roles, Ursuline looks ahead to the 2026–27 school year with a strong foundation already in place. Together, they reflect the continuity, care, and commitment that continue to define an Ursuline education.

  • academics

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