Regional Spotlight: North Connecticut

Thousands of families have trusted RSM Rocky Hill and RSM Avon with their children’s education. This blog highlights RSM North Connecticut, covering the journeys of the Principals, outstanding youth in the region, and even recent events which have allowed RSM to reach families outside of the classroom. The Regional Spotlight series will continue over the coming months, presenting branches across North America.

Meet the Regional Director and Principal of RSM Avon

Leah Gallo brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for mathematics education to our institution. With over eight years of dedicated involvement with RSM, Leah has honed her expertise in fostering mathematical excellence among students. As Regional Director of RSM North Connecticut, Leah oversees the two branches, in addition to serving as the Principal of RSM Avon.

Leah’s journey in education began in 2012 when she joined Teach for America in New York City, where she laid the foundation for her commitment to educational equity and excellence. Building on her Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, she then pursued her interest in secondary math education during her graduate studies where she earned her Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.) in New York City. This journey led her to assume leadership positions as a public school administrator in Philadelphia, PA, and later in Hartford, CT, where she spearheaded initiatives to promote academic achievement and student success. As Principal of RSM Avon, Leah thrives on creating dynamic learning environments where math becomes not only understandable but enjoyable for students of all ages.

As Regional Director, Leah further leverages her expertise by collaborating with regions across North America, ensuring a unified and impactful approach to advancing RSM’s mission. This opportunity to teach and reside within the same community provides Leah with invaluable insights into the local school’s mathematics curriculum and enables her to establish personal connections with many local teachers. Consequently, Leah engages in meaningful college readiness discussions with her students and families, offering tailored support to help them achieve their academic aspirations.

Meet the Rocky Hill Principal

Mania Kottou has a long-standing passion for mathematics and, importantly, for teaching math. Mania was first introduced to RSM when her two daughters joined the program eight years ago, starting Mania’s involvement with RSM. Extending her love for both mathematics and teaching youths to her position as Rocky Hill Principal, Mania shines at fostering a deep connection with students as they find excitement in the mathematical curriculum.

Mania graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and a Master’s Degree in Statistics from the University of Crete in Crete, Greece. From a young age, Mania decided that she wanted to pursue mathematics and, as such, she was committed to gaining a strong mathematics background. After graduating with her Bachelor’s and Master’s, Mania taught proof-based math courses at the University of Crete and later moved to the United States in 2005. Since then, she raised two daughters who both attend Yale University and have been through the RSM program themselves.

Seeing the impact that RSM has on students, Mania is incredibly proud to be Principal of Rocky Hill where she continues to foster a love for mathematics in her students. Mania loves exploring the differing needs of each student and finding the right path for them to both learn efficiently as well as progress in the school setting. She enjoys sharing her enthusiasm for math with her students and team.

Outstanding Students in RSM North Connecticut

Juyeong Sohn (Grade 6 Algebra Honors and Geometry I, RSM Avon) is an exceptionally strong student, consistently excelling in his algebra and geometry classes. This academic excellence extends to competitions as well. This year, Juyeong participated in all competitions hosted by RSM Avon and achieved national rankings in Math Kangaroo, American Mathematics Competition (AMC), and International Mathematics Competition (IMC).

Aaron Aldrin (Grade 6 Algebra Honors and Geometry I, Math Competition Program classes, RSM Rocky Hill) has excelled throughout his time at RSM and continues to prove his strengths both in and outside of the classroom. As a sixth grader, Aaron participates in a highly competitive accelerated math program at Timothy Edwards Middle School. He has achieved Rank 2 in the state and Rank 7 nationally in Math Kangaroo in addition to being among the top 2% in the Math Olympiads For Elementary & Middle Schools (MOEMS). Aaron also earned third place in the New England Association of Mathematics Leagues (NEAML) for Grade 6 at his middle school this year. RSM Rocky Hill is particularly proud of Aaron for his consistency with mathematics and willingness to challenge himself.

Recent Events in North Connecticut

RSM Rocky Hill, Guru Vandana Program (Spring 2024)

Principal Kottou was invited to attend the Guru Vandana Program by her students at RSM Rocky Hill. This event was put on by the South Windsor chapter of Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh, Connecticut.

RSM Rocky Hill, Road to College Seminar (Spring 2024)

RSM Rocky Hill hosted a Road to College seminar with recent RSM alumni who are currently attending Ivy League Universities. This was a great opportunity for families to learn more about the college admissions process and understand how alumni have used their experiences at RSM Rocky Hill to prepare for college. The alumni, whose majors spanned from Mathematics to Biology and Sociology, were eager to engage with questions posed by current RSM students and parents getting ready for their children’s college experience.

RSM Avon, Grand Opening Party (Spring 2022)

RSM Avon held their Grand Opening Party in 2022 after celebrating their first year in business! They celebrated with activities including a Math Magician. This event set a tone of community for their school; continuing to grow relationships with their families is a top priority.

Below are team photographs of the RSM Avon and RSM Rocky Hill teams, respectively.

The RSM Team is proud of the successes of RSM Avon and RSM Rocky Hill, having both impacted many families and built strong communities in the region. Stay tuned for more blogs highlighting RSM branches across North America.