Principal Deacon's Page
LAST DAY: FRIDAY JUNE 19, Early Dismiss
Principal Deacon's Page
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 24, 2026
Contact: Andrew Deacon
Title: Lee H. Kellogg School Principal
Phone: (860) 824-7791
Website: kelloggschool.org
The Lee H. Kellogg School Receives $2,409 Grant from Mockingbird Foundation
The Lee H. Kellogg School is thrilled to receive $2,409 from the Mockingbird Foundation to purchase five new student violins and one student cello to augment its growing musical string instrument instructional program. This grant award would not have been possible without the assistance and guidance from our collaborator All Falls Village, Inc.
With this grant, we are able to:
Expand access to string instruction for K–8 students
Increase student participation in instrumental music
Build a sustainable, school-based string ensemble
Foster creativity, discipline, and collaboration through music education
With the addition of these instruments, Lee H. Kellogg School will be able to offer a new and exciting opportunity for students to explore string music — many for the first time. In a rural district where extracurricular options are limited, this initiative will provide meaningful artistic enrichment and community pride.
About Mockingbird Foundation:
The Mockingbird Foundation is an all-volunteer 501(c)3 nonprofit organization supporting music education for children. A leading grantmaker in music education for children, the Foundation has now made 780 grants in all 50 states, totaling more than $2.9M. Funds for grants are generated through donations from a loyal base of fans, as well as through books, recordings, artwork, merchandise, and special events. Mockingbird is also the leading provider of historical information about Phish and its music, having cultivated intellectual property through phish.net (and three associated books, so far) since 1994. The Foundation was created and has been operated entirely by volunteer fans of the band, without any salaries or paid staff, since its inception in 1996. https://mbird.org
About All Falls Village, Inc.:
All Falls Village is a volunteer-led nonprofit that identifies and writes grants, supports local initiatives, and works across the Northwest Corner to strengthen Falls Village and surrounding communities. https://allfallsvillage.org
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In October 2025, The Spirit of Shea gifted us our first new violins to start our strings instructional program with Mrs. O'Neil. We were able to purchase (3) Maple Leaf 110 violins.
My Entry Plan from Principal Deacon
Wednesday December 3, 2025
Dear Kellogg Families,
At last night's Board of Education meeting, I shared my entry plan which outlines my approach for my first year as principal of Lee H. Kellogg School. The purpose of this plan is to engage with all key stakeholders, including parents and the community, to better understand the unique essence and vibrant culture of Kellogg. My approach prioritizes building trust, active listening, and transparent communication, as I believe deeply that by partnering with you, we will empower our students to become curious learners and confident self-advocates. Together, we will work collaboratively to ensure every student reaches their full potential. I look forward to connecting with you and learning more about our wonderful school community.
If you have any questions about the contents of the plan or if you would like to schedule a time to meet and share your experiences at Kellogg School, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Andrew
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 4, 2025
Lee H. Kellogg School Announces Dr. Andrew Deacon as New Principal
Canaan, CT – The Canaan Board of Education is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Andrew Deacon as the new Principal of Lee H. Kellogg School, effective December 1, 2025. Dr. Deacon brings extensive experience in education, a student-centered approach, and a passion for fostering academic growth and community engagement.
Dr. Deacon holds a Bachelor’s in Art History from Manhattanville College, a Master’s in Elementary Education and a 6th Year Certificate in Reading and Language Arts from the University of Bridgeport, a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Bridgeport, and a Superintendent of Schools Certificate from Sacred Heart University.
Currently, Dr. Deacon serves at Sharon Center School as a Literacy Interventionist and Instructional Coach. Previously, he held several leadership roles, including Supervisor of Student Development & Academic Success PK–12 in Milford Public Schools, and Director of Academics & Intervention Support K–5, Assistant Principal, Literacy and Numeracy Specialist, and 4th Grade Teacher in Torrington Public Schools. His teaching experience also includes serving as a 2nd Grade Teacher at Colebrook Consolidated School and teaching French and Spanish at The Forman School.
Pat Mechare, Chairperson of the Canaan Board of Education, stated, "The Canaan Board of Education is most pleased that we have found a wonderfully qualified and warm person to be the next principal of Lee H. Kellogg School. We are confident that Kellogg will continue to grow and thrive. We look forward to a great partnership which will take our school, students, and staff to new heights, both personally and educationally."
Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent of Schools added, "Among 26 highly qualified candidates, Dr. Deacon stood out with his student-centered mindset and proven ability to connect with students, staff, and families. His knowledge of elementary literacy and best instructional practices will serve our community well. I look forward to him joining the Region 1 team and providing excellent leadership to Lee H. Kellogg School." Cady Bloodgood, Parent of Lee H. Kellogg School added, “Andrew is an enthusiastic leader, passionate about student well-being and academic success. His kind and calm demeanor and wide base of academic knowledge make him a great fit for our community. Looking forward to seeing the positive impact he will have at LHK! Welcome, Principal Deacon!”
Melissa Dean, Staff Member and School Nurse added, “It is with great excitement that we announce the appointment of Dr. Andrew Deacon as new principal of Lee H. Kellogg School in Falls Village. After a thorough search and selection process, we are confident that Dr. Deacon's leadership, experience, and passion for student success make him the perfect choice to lead our school into the future. Andrew's goals include fostering strong relationships with our school's students, staff and community members while listening with empathy and kindness.”
Dr. Andrew Deacon, Principal added,“I am incredibly honored and deeply excited to join the Lee H. Kellogg School community as their next leader. I am truly grateful to the search committee for placing their trust in me, and I look forward to partnering with the dedicated staff, families, and students to build upon our rich tradition of personalized learning and community spirit. My commitment is to ensure every Kellogg student thrives in a kind, challenging, and supportive environment.”
The Canaan Board of Education and Region 1 leadership are excited to welcome Dr. Deacon to the Lee H. Kellogg community and look forward to the continued growth and success of the school under his leadership.
Contact: Melony Brady-Shanley, Superintendent Regional School District #1
Email: mbrady-shanley@region1schools.org
Phone: 860-248-1231