THREE APPOINTED TO NFA LEADERSHIP POSITIONS

Norwich — New Norwich Free Academy Head of School Brian M. Kelly named two NFA veterans and one newcomer to leadership positions at the academy Monday.

Newcomer Richard Freeman was named director of finance and human resources, NFA veteran Mykel Bridget Czaja will be the new director of student services and veteran science teacher Stephani Jones was been named Shattuck House principal.

“This is an important time for Norwich Free Academy,” Kelly said in a news release announcing the appointments. “These positions have been filled with skilled leaders who will help shape our path and continue to ensure that NFA remains the region's leading option for secondary education.”

Freeman previously served as director of finance for the New York City Department of Education. Prior to that, he served as a senior budget analyst for the New York City Office of Management and Budget. Freeman, of Uncasville, received his undergraduate degree from St. John's University and his master's degree from Baruch College. He started Monday and succeeds Cyndee Finger, who will retire this month.

Czaja, the new director of student services, has been a school psychologist at NFA for eight years. She also has served as acting principal of Cranston House and as an administrative intern in the student services department. Czaja, of Niantic, completed her undergraduate work at the University of Albany and her master's degree at Nova Southeastern University in Florida. She earned her administration certification from Sacred Heart University. Czaja started Monday and succeeds Lisa Wheeler, who also will retire this month.

Jones, the new Shattuck House principal, has served as the head of the NFA science department since 2011. She began her teaching career at NFA in 1997 and has served on the School to Work Committee and the Professional Development and Evaluation Committee. Jones, of Preston, earned her undergraduate degree at Simmons College and her master's degree at Connecticut College. She also holds her administration certification. She succeeds Kristin Peckrul, who was previously elevated to director of operations.