On Monday, November 4, 2019, the Watertown Board of Education approved Jennifer Galik as the next principal of Polk Elementary School effective immediately. Prior to taking the reins as Polk’s interim principal, Ms. Galik served as John Trumbull Primary School’s assistant principal. “While I am very sad to say goodbye to the many people I have had the privilege of working with over the past five years, I am excited about the new opportunities and challenges that will come from serving as a building principal and working at Polk,” said Ms. Galik.
Ms. Galik was one of 75 applicants for the top position at Polk. During the interview process, her passion for teaching and learning, and her ability to foster positive relationships with students, staff and families was apparent. “Ms. Galik knows our students and their families from her years as an assistant principal at John Trumbull and has had an opportunity to make connections with the Polk staff as the interim principal. These relationships will allow her to make a seamless transition,” said Dr. Rydell Harrison, Superintendent of Schools.
Ms. Galik is an exceptional leader who has years of elementary experience as an administrator, teacher, curriculum specialist, team leader and coach. Before coming to Watertown, Ms. Galik worked in Brookfield as a curriculum specialist for four years and taught in Wilton as a second grade teacher. “Ms. Galik is a dedicated instructional leader who is invested in supporting teachers in meeting the academic, social and emotional needs of all students,” said Dr. Harrison.
Ms. Galik majored in Spanish at Sacred Heart University for her undergraduate degree and earned her master’s degree from the same school in teaching. She earned her 6th year degree in educational leadership from Southern Connecticut State University. “The Board of Education is thrilled to have Ms. Galik lead Polk’s dedicated team of teachers at such an exciting time in our district,” said Leslie Crotty, Board Chair.