Alexandra Estrella began as Norwalk’s new superintendent of schools this week.

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…“Part of my work right now is listening and learning,” Estrella said. “As I learn more about the thinking, I can better respond. ... As I continue with listening and learning, part of what I'm doing is building relationships and establishing an understanding in who the people are and what are their interests? What are their priorities? To me, it's about building relationships, having open communication and hoping we can have more dialogue moving forward.”

Estrella has spoken with Brenda Penn-Williams, president of the Norwalk branch of the NAACP, about how to move forward and develop a more open relationship.

“I’m very encouraged,” Penn-Williams said. “We have a new superintendent I think I can work with and we can have a great relationship. I’m hoping to see more minority teachers. I’m also looking for ... some kind of alternative program to expulsion. I’m looking to see the gap is really closed. They’re saying the gap is closed. I’d like to see real data.”