ORFORD — A longtime Orford educator will be Rivendell Academy’s next principal.
Joy Clancy, who currently serves as dean of students for the middle and high school, which is part of the Rivendell Interstate School District, will begin her new role July 1, according to a Feb. 12 news release from the district, which includes the towns of Fairlee, West Fairlee, Vershire and Orford.
“There are people who are meant for certain places, and there is no question that Joy is meant for Rivendell,” Superintendent Randy Gawel said in the release. “She lives and breathes this school. She is absolutely committed to the place and the people, and she pours her heart and soul into it.”
Prior to becoming dean two years ago, Clancy, who lives in Orford, worked as an art educator in the district.
She will replace current principal Patricia Rella, who will leave her role and the district June 30, Brenda Gray, director of human resources for the Rivendell Interstate School District, wrote in an email. Rella has served as principal since July 2024, according to the school district’s website.