City Bids Farewell to Super Cooper
By Robin Vinci | Editor at February 4, 2024 | 6:00 pm | Print
Over 150 people turned out to the New Britain High School Cafeteria Monday for a farewell reception for former Superintendent Kelt Cooper.
Cooper came from Texas in 2012 bringing 20 years of experience.
In May of 2015 Board of Education members had decided Cooper’s time as Superintendent “run its course” and chose not to renew his contract extension.
Though he was supposed to stay on board through the end of the school year, Cooper resigned, effective Jan. 15. Paul Salina took over as Acting Superintendent.
On Monday several guests spoke about all the good things Cooper has done while in New Britain.
Salina called the man of the hour Sheriff Cooper donning a cowboy hat.
“He was a fresh set of eyes viewing our district. He often asked why we were doing it this way,” said Salina. “Each person was gifted with a Kelt story. Kelt can begin a conversation with anyone, although it was often difficult for Kelt to end a conversation.”
Salina added that, “New Britain has been fortunate to have Kelt lead the school district.”
He said that during Cooper’s tenure, New Britain has returned to neighborhood schools, increased the high school graduation rate, and made significant success for English Language Learners. Cooper also brought about new accounting procedures for a transparent budget.
“Kelt was very welcoming to me when I first came in. We talked about prioritizing for kids and new avenues,” said Sal Escobales, president of the teachers union.
Principal Mark Fernandez said Kelt claimed he came to Connecticut because the Southwest was hot and he was looking forward to cold winters.
“He said everything was going to be fine. Since then we had a blizzard that closed the school for five days and we had the coldest February on record and now he is leaving as fast as he can,” said Fernandez. “He came here single berating all of us who are married. Then he goes online and gets smitten.”
Cooper married his high school sweetheart Elizabeth in 2014.
Fernandez said Cooper has done great things for the City. Last year 241 kids passed the ELL. Fernandez said never has there been that many.
Cooper taught children proper language using soap as a deterent.
“Under his leadership we also go the satellite academy,” added Fernandez.
“I am looking forward to never seeing snow again,” Cooper told he audience. “I never worked with more dedicated administrators, teachers and para-educators. Each and everyone of you, I can sit down and tell some heartfelt observations I’ve made over the years and it would be positive.”
Cooper said he always knew New Britain would get back on its feet.
“I learned an awful lot here. Wherever I am, the structures I learned here I intend to implement. I am very proud of New Britain,” Cooper added. “Seeing all of you here makes me want to tear up. If I had a little bit of influence in making sure New Britain is heading in the right direction then I feel very accomplished.”
As Cooper now heads back to Texas, Salina said the City will remember him in a special way.
“As you move onto your next venture in life we wish you continued success,” said Salina. “We know that all good cowboys movies end with cowboys riding off into the sunset with their specials gals by their side. We know that you two will be two silhouettes for eternity.”
