Jeffrey Newton named as the next Executive Director of CES.

Cooperative Educational Services (C.E.S.) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jeffrey Newton as the next Executive Director.

Newton brings more than two decades of public education experience. As Superintendent of Schools for East Lyme Public Schools, he oversees district leadership, budgeting, personnel, school safety, facilities, and community engagement while supporting continuous improvement and student success. He was named the 2026 Connecticut Superintendent of the Year by the Connecticut Association of Public School Superintendents (CAPSS).

Newton previously served as Superintendent of Schools for Hebron Public Schools, Director of Special Services for Westbrook Public Schools, and Principal of Dr. Charles E. Murphy School in Oakdale. He began his education career as a special education teacher in Norwich. Newton holds a Master of Science in Special Education from Southern Connecticut State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Keene State College, as well as a sixth-year certificate in Educational Administration from Sacred Heart University. He also completed the University of Connecticut’s Executive Leadership Program. Newton’s leadership emphasizes collaboration, open communication, high academic standards, and supportive school communities that promote students’ academic and social-emotional growth.

“It is a true honor to be named the next Executive Director of Cooperative Educational Services. C.E.S. has provided outstanding services and programs for students and districts across Fairfield County for many years,” said Newton. “I look forward to continuing the wonderful work, traditions, and collaborations while also building and expanding programs with staff, stakeholders, and the Representative Council. I'm excited to begin my tenure on January 7, 2027!”

Representative Council President Andy George said, “We are excited to welcome Jeff Newton to C.E.S. He is our top choice from a competitive field of candidates. It speaks well of the C.E.S. organization that we are able to attract a high-caliber individual such as Jeff. His skill set and track record are outstanding. While we are sad to part ways with Chip Dumais, we thank him for many years of strong innovative leadership. We look forward to the future with Jeff as the Executive Director.”

"Jeff is an outstanding educator with an excellent reputation across Connecticut. His experience and accomplishments will be an absolute asset to C.E.S., the districts that we serve, and the RESC Alliance," said C.E.S. Executive Director Charles (Chip) Dumais, Ed.D., Esq.

C.E.S. Executive Searches facilitated the search on behalf of the C.E.S. Representative Council, guiding the council through the selection process. Consultants developed a leadership profile based on feedback from C.E.S. stakeholders and facilitated interviews with candidates. The interview process assessed candidates’ supervisory skills, leadership qualities, and professional attributes against the established profile to help identify the next Executive Director.