WOODBURY — Dr. Mykal Kuslis, the new principal of Nonnewaug High School, brings many new ideas and possibilities to Nonnewaug. Kuslis has a long history of opportunities that he took part in that led him to have a large bank of connections. 

The Ellis Clark Regional Agriculture junior/senior mechanics class recently went through a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training course where they learn many things that come with having a CDL, such as a pre-trip inspection, air brake test, and load securement. 

Due to the fact that the school does not own any vehicles with air brakes, Andrew Zielinski, the ag mechanics teacher, had to outsource a vehicle to use. 

Kuslis was quick to step in and, due to the fact that he is an active member in the military, tell Zielinski that he could borrow a truck from the Connecticut Army National Guard that the students could use to perform an air brake test, as well as a pre-trip inspection. 

The students in the class were excited to have a military truck at their disposal.

“It was exciting to have access to a military truck that we were all able to take our CDL tests in,” said NHS senior Alex Uscilla.

Zielinski was happy at the fact that the school was able to have a military truck, saying that it granted access for the class to be “able to do an air brake test.”    

Kuslis has many connections that he brings to Nonnewaug other than the military.

“It always pays off to be nice to people so that you can gain connections to be able to draw from,” Kuslis said. 

Even beyond the classroom, Kuslis was able to assist in creating a memorable Senior Field Day experience for 12th grade students last month, providing inflatables for the event courtesy of Kuslis’ relationship with the Connecticut Army National Guard.

Whether it’s in the classroom or beyond, Kuslis is working hard to create formative experiences for Nonnewaug students.