Region I Principal of the Year: Frank LaBanca

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MEET THE REGION I PRINCIPAL OF THE YEAR

DR. FRANK LABANCA
ACES Chase Academy
Area Cooperative Educational Services

Magnet Schools of America is proud to recognize Dr. Frank LaBanca, principal of ACES Chase Academy, as the Region I Principal of the Year. Serving students from nearly 30 towns across Connecticut, Dr. LaBanca leads with a clear and compelling vision rooted in equity, coherence, and purposeful learning. Under his leadership, ACES Chase Academy has become a model interdistrict STEAM magnet school where rigorous academics, authentic project-based learning, and a strong sense of belonging define the student experience.

At the heart of Dr. LaBanca’s leadership is his intentional design of systems that align the school’s instructional model, monitoring structures, and its Portrait of a Graduate. Rather than existing as words on a wall, this shared vision actively shapes classroom practice, student behavior, and schoolwide expectations. Teachers benefit from clear structures and professional learning that elevate instructional quality, while students experience learning that is both challenging and deeply relevant. This coherence has led to measurable gains in student engagement, achievement, and confidence as learners and leaders.

Dr. LaBanca’s impact is felt well beyond the walls of ACES Chase Academy. A longtime leader within the Connecticut Science Fair Association, he serves as State Fair Director and has built enduring partnerships that expand access to authentic research experiences for students statewide. These collaborations have resulted in consistent student success at the regional, state, and national levels, while also strengthening professional learning opportunities for educators. Community partners describe his leadership as generous, collaborative, and exemplary of what magnet school partnerships can achieve when driven by purpose and trust.

Perhaps most powerfully, Dr. LaBanca leads with heart. Families describe a school culture where students are known by name, supported as individuals, and encouraged to advocate for themselves and others. His commitment to transparent communication, inclusive practices, and relationship-centered leadership has created an environment where students thrive academically and personally. As Region I Principal of the Year, Dr. Frank LaBanca exemplifies the very best of magnet education—demonstrating how aligned systems, equity-driven leadership, and a shared vision can transform schools and student outcomes.

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