Schools
Meet Jill Hale, The New Principal at Guilford Lakes Elementary School
Her work with students from first through eighth grade has prepared her well for her new job.
When Guilford Lakes Elementary School students, staff and faculty return to school tomorrow they'll be greeted by . Hale agreed to a question and answer session with Guilford Patch, in an effort to introduce herself. Please join us in welcoming her to town.
Q. What was your job prior to accepting this position?
Find out what's happening in Guilfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
A. I was the assistant principal at the Polson Middle School in Madison.
Q. What do you look forward to as you begin this new chapter in your professional career?
Find out what's happening in Guilfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
A. Working with the outstanding staff of Guilford Public Schools.
Q. Do you think there will be any special challenges for you as you start you job as principal at Guilford Lakes School?
A. Across the nation school districts are working to implement the Common Core State Standards. As a district, Guilford is ahead of most. Their work over the past few years with the Institute for Learning and the implementation of Professional Learning Communities has prepared Guilford well for the work toward the CCSS.
Q. What special or unique qualities do you bring to this new job?
A. Throughout my career, I have worked with students from first grade through eighth grade. As a result, I have firsthand understanding of teaching and learning across the grades.
Q. Are there any mentors that helped shape your career?
A. It is difficult to name one mentor. Early in my career my father, taught me how to listen to students. Watching my husband lead schools for over 20 years has taught me patience and kindness. Most recently, I worked with Frank Henderson, principal of Polson, who shared the administrative responsibilities with me. To each I am grateful. Most especially I am grateful to the many students I have worked with since beginning my career. From each I learned much.
Q. What is the most exciting thing about this new job?
A. As I mentioned earlier this is an exciting time for education across the nation. Never before have so many states adopted the same standards for learning. The timing of this new adventure, with the national standards and focus on deep learning, is very exciting.
