Melissa Perkowski, who is currently serving as interim assistant principal at Northwood Elementary School in Hilton, was appointed to the position of principal at the April 12 Board of Education meeting. She will begin her new role on July 1.
Prior to coming to Hilton, Perkowski worked in the Gates Chili Central School District where she served as interim assistant principal at Gates Chili Middle School, Neil Armstrong Elementary School and Walt Disney Elementary School. From 2016 to 2020, she was director of Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment at Honeoye Central School District. Perkowski has also worked as a reading specialist, and first and fourth grade teacher.
Perkowski’s education includes a Certificate of Advanced Study in Educational Administration from SUNY Oswego, and a Master of Science in Education and Bachelor of Arts in English Literature/Elementary Education, both from Nazareth College.
Perkowski resides in Fairport with her husband Michael. They have three children.
Prior to the search, Superintendent Dr. Casey Kosiorek and Assistant Superintendent for Human Resources Ned Dale met with Northwood faculty and launched a Thought- Exchange to gather information on the characteristics, skills and qualities Northwood families desired in a principal. Screening interviews were conducted for selected applicants, then four semi-finalists were interviewed by a stakeholder committee comprised of parents, teachers, staff and administrators. Perkowski was selected as a finalist and Northwood families had the opportunity to meet her prior to her appointment.
“The crisis at Northwood has been extremely difficult for district families and staff,” said Superintendent Dr. Casey Kosiorek. “We are confident that Melissa is the best person for this position as we progress on our road to recovery that includes healing and rebuilding trust with our community.”
The District thanks those who participated in the ThoughtExchange and hiring process, and is grateful to Carol Stehm, interim principal, for her leadership over the past year.
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