Framingham Schools Names Harmony Grove Elementary Interim Principal

FRAMINGHAM, MA — A longtime educator and leader within the Framingham Public Schools system will serve as interim vice principal at Harmony Grove Elementary School this year, officials announced.

Julie Gelardi will take on the role for the upcoming school year after a career that spans multiple schools in the district, including most recently at King Elementary where she was vice principal.

“I am thrilled to introduce myself as the new Interim Principal at Harmony Grove Elementary for the upcoming 2024-25 school year,” said Gelardi. “As I step into this role, my priority is to support efforts to provide the best possible education for our students. I am here to listen, collaborate, and work alongside you to build on our successes and address any challenges that may arise.”

With over 25 years of experience in education, beginning at Juniper Hill and BLOCKS then at Stapleton Elementary, Fuller Middle School, McCarthy Elementary School and most recently as Vice Principal of King Elementary, Ms.Gelardi served in diverse roles ranging from Elementary Classroom Teacher, Special Education Teacher, Math Coach, Literacy Coach and Vice Principal.

Gelardi has over 25 years of education and, last year, she enrolled and completed the Perrone-Sizer Institute for Creative Leadership.

"The goal of this leadership initiative was to build a pathway of dedicated, knowledgeable, diverse, and prepared aspiring educator leaders who are interested and ready to become administrators in our district," district officials said.

Officials said they feel lucky that Gelardi was available for the role, given her experience with the district and in leadership roles.

“Julie is a passionate and proven leader who advocates for all students and for strong partnerships with families and the greater community,” said Superintendent of Schools Robert A. Tremblay. “Like many other recent leadership appointments in the Framingham Public Schools, we are so fortunate to have experienced, internal talent, ready to step into the principal role and I am excited for the Harmony Grove community with this interim appointment.”

The district will begin the process of selecting a permanent principal starting during the 2025 winter.

"The selection process will be collaborative and inclusive, allowing staff, families, and community members to participate in the screening and interview stages, and will culminate in a public forum where finalist candidates will have the opportunity to present themselves and engage with our school community," the district said.