Mike Staffaroni, the Lead Teacher for New Canaan High School's Downtown Campus, brings over two decades of teaching experience. A Bucknell University graduate with degrees in Elementary and Secondary Education as well as Economics, Mike began his career in Hawaii, where he taught social studies for ten years and earned a Master's in Curriculum Studies from the University of Hawaii. Since joining New Canaan High School in 2011, he has pioneered the AP Economics program and earned a second Master's in US Government and Politics from Ashland University. In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Mike advises the award-winning Economics Club, serves as President of the Faculty Senate, and is the Senior Class advisor. He and his wife, an educator in New Canaan, live in Trumbull with their four children, where they are actively involved in local sports and organizations. Mike is eager to continue his leadership role while maintaining a presence on the main campus.

Colleen received her Bachelor degree in Psychology from the University of Michigan.  After college, she lived in San Francisco and worked in a residential, children’s group home.  During which time, she decided to extend her experience and knowledge in this field, and moved back east to attend a dual degree Masters program at Boston University in Special Education and Social Work.  After teaching middle school students in a charter school and starting her family in Boston, Colleen returned to her hometown, New Canaan. She began working for New Canaan Public Schools, initially as a homebound tutor, and then as a special education teacher. Over the past 11 years, Colleen has worked in the elementary schools assisting in the special education identification process, while collaborating with general education teachers, clinical staff, and families to develop and provide appropriate, individualized programs for a variety of students.  Colleen continues to live in New Canaan with her husband and three kids.