Former Derynoski Teacher Perri Murdica Tapped to Head Special Education Services in Town

When Perri S. Murdica began working as a special education teacher at the Derynoski Elementary School in 1997, she knew right away that she’d found a place she was comfortable in a district that was committed to the children.

Murdica also knew she wanted to advance her career in educational leadership, however, and when the opportunities weren’t available in town, the Waterbury native moved on to the Connecticut State University system to teach and take the opportunity to further her education.

After a five year absence from a paid role with Southington schools, Murdica is now getting the chance to prove herself as a leader in the district after she was hired Thursday as the Senior Coordinator of Pupil Personnel Services.

“It’s an opportunity to return to a district where all the teachers and staff are truly committed to education and helping children grow,” said Murdica, who will now oversee special education at all of Southington’s schools. “Everyone here engages children in a meaningful way and I look forward to working with teachers and staff to advance the vision of Southington Public Schools.”

Murdica will begin in her new role on July 1, board members said, and will receive an annual salary of $115,792.

A life-long learner, Murdica holds a bachelors degree in special education with a concentration in psychology, a Masters degree in special education, and a sixth-year certificate in educational leadership, which were all received following studies at Central Connecticut State University.

Most recently, she was awarded a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of Hartford after completing a superintendent internship with Southington schools in 2010.

Board Chairman Brian Goralski said she proved herself a strong leader during that internship, but it was her excitement to return to the district that set her apart from other candidates for the position.

“The candidates we had were all well qualified but her experience and knowledge of Southington gave her an edge,” he said. “Her excitement to return to where she started her career was evident during the interview process.”

Although it took long hours and continued education to get to this stage of her career, Murdica credited much of her success to her family and to Southington administrators including former Derynoski Principal Karen Smith for helping her along the way.

Smith will now serve as her mentor again in a different capacity when she assumes the role of Assistant Superintendent in July.

“My family has stood behind me through everything – through the long nights and late suppers and I can’t thank them enough,” she said.