Administration
Joe Trivisonno - Principal
Joe Trivisonno is an experienced and dedicated educational leader with a strong background in both urban and rural school communities.
Joe joined the Portland Public Schools in the summer of 2025 from the Monson Public Schools in Monson, Massachusetts, where he served four years as the principal of Granite Valley School, serving students in grades one through six, and three years as the principal of the Early Childhood Center, supporting preschool and kindergarten students. Prior to assuming the role of Granite Valley principal, Joe spent two years as the assistant principal of that school. Before his time in Monson, he spent three years in other Massachusetts school districts – as a middle school assistant principal for the Southbridge Public Schools, and three years as physical education teacher with the Springfield Public Schools.
Beyond the classroom, Joe has a passion for coaching – in particular basketball, which he coached at the high school varsity level for six years. Joe holds a master’s degree from Endicott College in organization management and a doctorate in educational leadership from Nova Southeastern University.
Joe enjoys spending time outdoors, traveling and being with family. Having grown up in New Jersey, he also enjoys supporting the New York Jets, Knicks, and Yankees. Joe and his wife are excited to be in Maine as part of the PPS community.
Melissa Richard - Assistant Principal
Melissa joined the Portland Public Schools from Pond Cove Elementary School in Cape Elizabeth, where she served as interim assistant principal and previously worked as a math interventionist. Prior to that, she spent six years as an elementary classroom teacher in first and second grade, worked as a special educator, and provided early intervention to students through Child Development Services.
She holds a master's degree from Lesley University in curriculum and instruction – integrative teaching through the arts, and is working on her EdD in education.
Melissa is passionate about music and enjoys singing with the Portland-based band, Under the Covers. She loves trying new plant-based recipes with her husband in her downtime and cuddling with their black lab, Basil.
Melissa is excited about building relationships with staff, students, families, and community members at Rowe School and in the Portland district!