At today’s special meeting of the Harrison County Board of Education, Dave Mazza was named the new principal of Bridgeport Middle School.

 

"I could not be more excited to be moving forward with Bridgeport Middle School as principal," he said. "It is an honor to be able to serve this community of amazing students and dedicated families. I will  be the first to admit that Carole Crawford is a tough act to follow, but fortunately, I had the opportunity to work by her side for eight years. She has mentored and prepared me for this next level. I plan to build off her legacy and continue the success. I have a dedicated and compassionate staff that go above and beyond for the students at BMS."

 

Mazza, who has served as assistant principal under Crawford since 2010, said the transition has been a humbling experience, but the support he has received from family, friends and the community - especially BMS teachers and staff - has been overwhelming.

 

"I would like to thank each and every one of them and I am looking forward to the start of the new school year," he said.

 

Mazza expressed interest in the position after Crawford recently resigned to take the position of Harrison County Schools supervisor of personnel. (Read about it HERE.)

 

She is very happy about the BOE's selection. 

 

"(Dave) is a great choice because he has been part of the team for years," she said. "He understands teacher leadership, school culture and the middle school student. We have worked side by side to help lead BMS to the top. Dave has been part of the village."

 

Mazza, who lives in Clarksburg, received his B.A. in social studies from Fairmont State University, his masters in special education from West Virginia University and a degree in administration from Salem International University. He began teaching in Monongalia County in 1989, thereafter working as a diagnostician for the West Virginia Department of Education and then as a social studies teacher at both Lumberport and Washington Irving middle schools.

 

He and his wife Tonia life in Clarksburg.  

 

BOE Member Frank Devono said the board’s approval of Mazza was by unanimous vote and that about a half dozen individuals applied for the position. The opening for assistant BMS principal will be posted next week.