Press Releases

Assistant Principal at ACES Chase Academy Appointed

August 4th, 2025

ACES Announces Promotion of Dina Secchiaroli to Assistant Principal at ACES Chase Academy

(Hamden, CT – July 31, 2025) — Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is pleased to announce the promotion of Dina Secchiaroli to Assistant Principal of ACES Chase Academy, effective August 8, 2025. Ms. Secchiaroli brings nearly three decades of educational leadership experience to her new role, including deep expertise in instructional coaching, restorative practices, and innovative curriculum design.

Formerly known as ACES at Chase, the school, located in Waterbury, Connecticut, recently adopted the name ACES Chase Academy to better reflect its identity as a forward-thinking magnet school with a strong STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) mission. Serving students in grades 6–10 and expanding to grades 6–12 by 2027, ACES Chase Academy is recognized nationally for its inclusive, student-centered approach.

Ms. Secchiaroli most recently served as a Professional Learning Specialist with ACES Professional Development and School Improvement (PDSI) team, where she supported dozens of districts in implementing evidence-based instructional strategies. She has served on leadership teams across multiple high schools, led interdisciplinary curriculum transformation efforts, and trained hundreds of educators across Connecticut in restorative practices and cognitive coaching.

“Dina Secchiaroli has long demonstrated a unique ability to bridge vision with action,” said Dr. Thomas M. Danehy, Executive Director of ACES. “She brings with her a powerful combination of instructional leadership, relationship-building, and a relentless commitment to student achievement. We are excited to see her step into this important leadership role at Chase Academy.”

Ms. Secchiaroli's prior work with Chase includes leading professional development that improved cross-curricular writing instruction and serving on the school’s Portrait of a Graduate committee. Her deep familiarity with Chase’s culture, mission, and staff will allow her to make an immediate and lasting impact.

In her new role, Ms. Secchiaroli will play a key part in supporting Chase Academy’s strategic expansion to a full 6–12 program, helping to ensure a seamless academic and cultural alignment as the school grows to serve high school students through graduation.

“I am honored to accept this role and continue serving the ACES and Chase communities,” said Ms. Secchiaroli. “Chase’s expansion and STEAM mission present a tremendous opportunity to reimagine what middle and high school can look like. I am excited to partner with students, staff, and families to build a school culture rooted in equity, reflection, and academic excellence.”

ACES congratulates Dina Secchiaroli and looks forward to the continued growth and success she will bring to Chase Academy in her new leadership role.

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About ACES:
Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is the regional educational service center for New Haven and parts of Middlesex and Fairfield Counties. ACES serves school districts through innovative programs and services that meet the needs of a changing educational landscape. ACES operates magnet, special education, and alternative schools, as well as providing a wide range of educational services including professional development, transportation, translation, and adult vocational programs. Learn more at www.aces.org.