Ryan Cotrona joined the Platt Band staff in 2021 as a drumline and percussion instructor alongside Ricardo Valentin.

As a lifelong Meriden resident and alumnus of Meriden Public Schools, Ryan brings personal experiences and community perspectives to his work. As a 2019 graduate of Francis T. Maloney High School, he values the opportunity to give back to the same programs that helped shape him as a student, musician, and educator.

As both an educator and current graduate student, Ryan believes education is a two-way process and continues to learn from the students he works with. He strives to be a positive role model by promoting respect and teamwork while helping students build confidence and a sense of belonging. His goal is to create an environment where students feel supported and comfortable.

Ryan earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Connecticut in 2023 and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Counselor Education with a specialization in Clinical Professional Counseling at Central Connecticut State University.