Kathryn Congleton joins us with 14 years of experience in curriculum development, instruction, and residential leadership. She earned her B.A. in English Language and Literature (minor in Theater) from Pace University, an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from Merrimack College, and is currently pursuing an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, Curriculum and Instruction, also at Merrimack. Kathryn most recently taught English at Salisbury School, and prior to that served as Summer Session Department Chair of English and Curriculum Coordinator at Eaglebrook School, as well as Dorm Head and Affinity Group Leader. Earlier in her career, she was Director of Global Programming and International Student Support at Kents Hill School.
Libby Kappler joined Rumsey Hall in 2017 as a mathematics teacher, coach, and dorm parent. A graduate of The Taft School, she holds a B.A. from Trinity College and an M.Ed. from Lesley University. Mrs. Kappler teaches mathematics through a series of connected themes, guiding students to build conceptual knowledge and transition into abstract thinking. Her lessons explore patterns, real-world applications, and engaging games, helping students understand the origins and purposes of mathematical concepts. She believes math is like a puzzle, where solving one piece reveals more connections to explore.
Mrs. Kappler loves fostering curiosity and excitement in all students, whether helping advanced learners tackle challenging material or guiding struggling students to their “aha” moments. Outside the classroom, she enjoys outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, biking, and swimming, as well as reading, gardening, and spending time with her family. Libby and her husband, Christopher, live on campus with their son Finley ’29 and Bernadoodle Zoey.
Mr. Kinsella has been a dedicated member of the History Department at Rumsey Hall School since 2007. He earned his M.A. in American Studies from Trinity College and a B.S. in Philosophy from the University of Idaho. Mr. Kinsella finds great fulfillment in teaching, particularly when students make meaningful connections between historical events and contemporary issues. Witnessing their intellectual growth over the course of a year or two is one of the most rewarding aspects of his role.
Mr. Kinsella enjoys the multifaceted nature of his work, which includes teaching, coaching, and participating in residential life. He values the unique relationships that form when students see faculty members actively engaged in various aspects of their school experience.
Outside of school, Mr. Kinsella is happiest when he’s outdoors, whether he’s playing sports, cycling, golfing, fishing, or spending time with his family. He also enjoys working on a “fixer-upper” in Maine during his time away from campus.
Beth Martino joined Rumsey Hall in 2013 as the Learning Skills Department Chair, where she has made significant contributions to literacy education. As a Trainer of Teachers, she provided state literacy modules on topics such as Oral Language, Phonological Awareness, Reading Comprehension, Writing, and standardized test strategies. Ms. Martino was pivotal in securing a Project Lucid Grant to enhance multicultural affiliation through technology-based reading and on-site visitations, fostering a deeper appreciation for diversity among students.
Ms. Martino holds an M.S. in Remedial Reading and Remedial Language Arts and a B.S. in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood Education, both from Central Connecticut State University.
Before joining Rumsey Hall, Beth was a classroom teacher and reading specialist who was instrumental in creating a Literacy Academy. She trained under Margie Gillis – Literacy How, gaining valuable expertise in literacy instruction. Drawn to Rumsey Hall for its academic excellence and commitment to teaching the whole child, Beth has thrived in her role, helping students develop strong literacy skills.
Beth lives in Thomaston, CT. Outside of teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family on Bantam Lake and cheering for her favorite sports teams: the New York Yankees, the UConn Women’s Basketball team, and the Dallas Cowboys.
Cassie Rydingsword began her journey at Rumsey Hall in 2019 as the Upper School Art Teacher. She holds a B.A. in Art Education from Southern Connecticut State University and an M.S. in Special Education from Fairfield University.
At Rumsey, Ms. Rydingsword values the opportunity to engage students at all levels, from those with a casual interest in art to those passionate about pursuing it further. She thrives in Rumsey’s flexible and dynamic environment, where students are encouraged to find inspiration and gain the confidence to act on it. Seeing her students surprise themselves with talents they didn’t know they had is one of the most rewarding aspects of her teaching.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. Rydingsword is actively involved in the school community, coaching each season and collaborating with students to create, build, and install scenery for Upper School plays.
Outside of school, she enjoys exploring the natural beauty of the Litchfield Hills, frequenting local nature preserves, and discovering new restaurants. Most of all, she loves watching her two children, Evan and Leah, compete in high school athletics.
