Mr. Chris Geissler joined the John Read Middle School community as Principal in 2026. He brings more than 25 years of experience in public education, including 18 years as a school administrator. A student-centered leader, Mr. Geissler is committed to building strong relationships, fostering a safe, positive, and inclusive school culture, and helping every student discover and achieve personal success. He believes that collaboration among students, staff, families, and the community is the foundation of a thriving school, and that meaningful relationships inspire learning, growth, and success.
Prior to joining JRMS, Mr. Geissler served as Principal of Middle Gate School in Newtown for 15 years, where he led school improvement efforts focused on enhancing teaching and learning, supporting student well-being, and fostering meaningful family partnerships. Earlier in his career, he served as Assistant Principal at Fairfield Woods Middle School and as a teacher and teacher leader in Fairfield Public Schools. His experience across both elementary and middle school settings has affirmed his belief that strong relationships, meaningful collaboration, and a shared commitment to continuous growth create the conditions for every learner to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally
Mr. Geissler earned a Sixth Year Degree in Educational Leadership from Sacred Heart University, a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from the University of Bridgeport, and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, magna cum laude, from Sacred Heart University. He is honored to partner with students, staff, families, and the community to continue the tradition of excellence at John Read Middle School while inspiring every student to learn, grow, and succeed.
Mrs. Kyla Dunn joined the John Read Middle School community as Assistant Principal in August 2022. She is passionate about creating a school environment where every student feels welcomed, supported, challenged, and empowered to succeed. Mrs. Dunn works closely with students, families, and staff to foster a positive school culture while supporting academic excellence, student well-being, and meaningful partnerships between home and school.
Mrs. Dunn brings more than 20 years of experience in education as a teacher, instructional coach, educational consultant, and school administrator. She began her career as a middle school teacher in the Boston Public Schools before serving in a variety of leadership roles with the Washington, D.C. Public Schools, the Maryland State Department of Education, and school districts throughout the Northeast. Throughout her career, she has led curriculum development, instructional coaching, professional learning, school improvement initiatives, and data-driven decision-making to strengthen teaching and learning. Before joining John Read Middle School, she served as an assistant principal and educational consultant, partnering with schools and districts to improve instructional practices, student achievement, and school climate.
Mrs. Dunn earned her Master's degree in Elementary Education from Simmons University and later completed a second Master's degree in Social, Emotional & Academic Learning for Social Justice Leadership at Sacred Heart University, where she also earned her Connecticut Intermediate Administration and Supervision (092) certification. She believes that strong relationships, high expectations, and a commitment to continuous learning are the foundation of a successful middle school experience, and she is proud to be part of the John Read Middle School community.