The Southbury Record

McCauley’s appointment was unanimously approved by the Region 15 Board of Education at its Special Meeting held on Thursday, July 9. Her appointment is effective beginning Monday, July 13. She had been serving as the Acting Athletic Director since this spring.

The position for the new athletic director garnered 26 applicants and included a comprehensive interview process involving district administrators, teachers, staff members, coaches, and parents. In her role, McCauley will lead the district’s comprehensive K-12 programs as well as the district’s athletic teams.

In a press release, Superintendent Joshua Smith said that McCauley brings a clear vision and a proven track record for leading Health, Physical Education, and Athletics through district-wide programs.

“Throughout her time in Region 15, she has demonstrated the value of the coordinated  approach by leading districtwide curriculum development, instructional improvement, and professional learning while also providing leadership for our athletic programs,” said Smith. 

He highlighted her collaborative leadership style, deep knowledge of curriculum and instructional standards, and commitment to continuous improvement as having helped strengthen the district’s programs and position them for continued growth.

“She understands that investing in educators and coaches is the foundation of high-quality health, physical education, and athletics programs that help students become confident, healthy, and resilient learners,” Smith continued. “Her ability to bring together staff, students, families, and the community around a shared purpose has created a strong foundation for continued growth and success. I am confident that under her leadership, these programs will continue to evolve as a unified experience that promotes student wellness, strengthens learning, and provides every student with opportunities to grow, lead, and succeed.”

McCauley first joined the district as a physical education teacher in 2010 before serving as a wellness teacher in Madison Public Schools. She returned to Region 15 in 2015 as a health and physical education teacher at Pomperaug High School, where she has been recognized for her commitment to student success, educator collaboration, and program growth.

In her role as the district’s K-12 Instructional Teacher Leader for Health and Physical Education, she led curriculum development, supported instructional improvement, and designed district-wide professional learning opportunities to strengthen teaching and learning across all grade levels. She has also served as a Connecticut TEAM Beginning Teacher Mentor and Cooperating Teacher, helping to prepare and support the next generation of educators.

“I am truly honored to serve Region 15 in this new role,” said McCauley. “This district has been my professional home for many years, and I am grateful for the opportunity to continue working alongside our outstanding teachers, coaches, administrators, students, and families. I believe every student deserves opportunities to discover their strengths, build confidence, develop lifelong healthy habits, and experience the value of teamwork, perseverance, and leadership. Together, we will continue building programs that inspire students to challenge themselves, support one another, and reach their full potential.”

McCauley was named the 2024-25 Connecticut High School Physical Education Teacher of the Year by the Connecticut Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (CTAHPERD), recognizing her outstanding leadership and contributions to the profession.

At Pomperaug High School, she has served as Co-Chair of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC) accreditation process, Student Council Executive Board Advisor, POMP Senate Advisor, and Varsity Girls Lacrosse Coach. 

She steps into the role previously held for nearly a decade by Ron Plasky.