FCPS Names New Leader for Rise STEM Academy for Girls

Cynthia Bruno has been selected as the next principal of the Rise STEM Academy for Girls.

With close to two decades of experience in education, Bruno has spent the past three years as principal of Dixie Magnet Elementary. During her tenure, that campus has become one of the fastest-growing academically in the state and among the highest-achieving schools in Fayette County Public Schools. Her leadership also earned Dixie distinctions such as recognition as a "Model PBL (Project-Based Learning) School" and a "Promising Practices PLC (Professional Learning Community) School." Before Dixie, Bruno served as the assistant principal at Maxwell Spanish Immersion Elementary. She starts her new role at Rise STEM Academy on July 1.

“Cynthia has proven that she is a transformative leader by fostering innovative and inclusive educational practices. She is a passionate educator and is excited to contribute to the success and growth of Rise,” said Superintendent Demetrus Liggins. “Her leadership, proven track record of academic achievement, and genuine enthusiasm for increased student outcomes will benefit the advancement of an exceptional girls STEM program that provides unique and world-class learning opportunities for all scholars.”

Bruno is a Kentucky native who spent 10 years as a classroom teacher and instructional leader in Nashville, Tennessee, before joining FCPS in 2015 as assistant principal at James Lane Allen Elementary. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Kentucky, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Tennessee State University, and her National Board Certification in Early/Middle Childhood Literacy.