After spending years at one of the largest high schools in Connecticut, Principal Gary Bocaccio has made the decision to retire at the completion of this school year.

It is important to notice the legacy that he is leaving behind at this school. When he first began, the school was filled with independence. However, his unifying demeanor and pride will remain at DHS forever.

I feel that I have a valid view of Bocaccio’s term here at DHS, being the senior that I am.

After spending nearly four years here, I have noticed many changes that have occurred.  For example, after the horrific Sandy Hook tragedy, Bocaccio ensured that all students felt safe both during and exiting the building on that day.

Since then, he has made it a top priority for school safety by implementing the rule for students to wear ID badges as well as always carry a pass while in the hallway during class time. Though these rules may seem tedious to students, he has always put us first while on the job

“You could always tell that he [Bocaccio] had a lot of passion for his job and always wanted the best for his students,” senior Stasia Timan said.

Bocaccio led DHS to many victories during his term. The most notable would certainly be winning the “Celebrate My Drive” campaign sponsored by State Farm, in 2013, earning our school $100,000. Students pledged for safe driving and without the outpouring of support by the administration, especially Bocaccio himself, this would never have been possible.

“We all came together as a community,” Bocaccio said.

Bocaccio has been principal at DHS since 2011, and was a level principal since 1992. He knows what education is and how it has evolved since he first began at DHS.

“Education is not just book learning,” Bocaccio said. “The diversity here is a major strength.”

DHS is the size of some small colleges and the amount of guidance and one on one attention students receive from the staff is overwhelming. Bocaccio will truly be missed by all.

Being a DHS graduate himself, Bocaccio certainly knows his way around these crowded hallways.

“I want this place to flourish,” Bocaccio said.

Remember Mr. Bocaccio, once a Hatter, always a Hatter.