Gianni Perugini, an experienced teacher, coach, and former Assistant Principal is the new leader and Principal at Watertown High School. While growing up, Mr. Perugini loved school and was always inspired by his teachers. He graduated from Central Connecticut State University and received his master’s degree in Health and Physical Education. His portfolio includes teaching in Bethlehem, teaching for Waterbury Arts Magnet School, Athletic Director at Naugatuck High School, and Assistant Principal in Waterbury and Thomaston. He also coached the Sacred Heart High School Boys’ Soccer team and coached Boys’ Soccer at Wilby High School. 

Becoming a principal was always a goal in Mr. Perugini’s life. He enjoys his work because of the connection he has with the students and helping them achieve. WHS stood out to him for the beautiful campus and building. He says the student body is welcoming and recognizes how much the teachers love the building and community, which inspired him to take the role of a leader. 

As Principal, he hopes to improve and increase opportunities such as post-secondary learning and earning college credit, celebrating the achievements the students make, and recognizing the achievements of teachers. Advice he has for students that he wishes he gave to himself is, “Don’t feel like high school has nothing to offer.” He believes in always staying involved because “you’re going to get out what you put in.”

Behind the principal we see in the halls, he is a “movie junky” at heart. His favorite movies are from the Rocky franchise. He also loves to act himself and participated in his school’s spring musical when he was in high school. He has even been an extra in some movies. In his free time, he loves to listen to podcasts and cut his grass.