Classical High School administrator named Rhode Island principal of the year

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The principal of Classical High School in Providence received a big surprise Friday morning.

Scott Barr was named 2022 Rhode Island Principal of the Year during an assembly.

Commissioner Angélica Infante-Green, Mayor Jorge Elorza, Superintendent Javier Montañez joined staff and students to congratulate Barr.

“A pillar of our community’s Turnaround Action Plan for Providence Public Schools is having world-class talent throughout our system, and Principal Barr is a shining example of the outstanding leadership we have,” said Superintendent Dr. Javier Montañez.

Barr began his career with Providence schools 32 years ago, working as a history teacher. He is now the 16th principal at Classical.

“There is no doubt that the leadership of Principal Barr is making a positive impact on students and preparing them for future success,” said Mayor Jorge O. Elorza. “As a Classical alumnus myself, and as a former student of his, I know the difference Principal Barr has made for hundreds of kids.

U.S. News and World Report recently named Classical as Rhode Island’s top school and 91st in the country.