Zenion to Replace Draper at Chariho

By Cynthia Drummond for BRVCA
September 8th 2024

WOOD RIVER JUNCTION – Chariho Superintendent of Schools Gina Picard announced Thursday that Middle School Principal Gregory Zenion will replace Ned Draper as the school district’s Director of Administration and Finance.

Draper, who served as Finance Director from 2020 to July, 2024,

is now working at the University of Rhode Island.

Zenion has been the middle school Principal for 18 years.

Picard said Zenion would not move to his new job as Finance Director until the district has chosen someone to replace him as principal.

“Rest assured, Mr. Zenion will not begin his new role until we have selected a new principal who will continue the high expectations we have set here in our community,” she stated in a letter to the Chariho Community. “This new role will allow Mr. Zenion to contribute to our schools in a different capacity, which will continue to support the success and well-being of our students and staff.”

In a separate announcement, Zenion thanked the Chariho community for the support he received during his nearly two decades of leading the middle school.

“As a resident of Hopkinton for the past 25 years, I know that this community is not just where I work but also where I live and raise my family,” he said. “I want to express my deepest gratitude to each of you for your trust, support, and partnership throughout these years. You have made my role as principal incredibly fulfilling, and I am grateful to have been part of such a dedicated and caring community.”

Reached Friday, Picard said Zenion has the credentials required by the Rhode Island Department of Education to serve in his new role.

“Greg had to apply for that certification, and based on [academic] transcripts, he does qualify,” she said.

The district wasted no time in advertising the vacancy, which was posted on Thursday afternoon, after staff had been notified.

Picard said she believed Zenion would thrive in his new role.

“I think this is definitely in Greg’s wheelhouse,” she said. “I think Greg is definitely going to miss his middle school family, but he’ll be right across the way.”