Crystal Lawns and Wallin Oaks elementary schools will get new leadership next school year.
The Board of Education at its Wednesday, May 29, 2024, regular meeting approved Marie Zlotnikov as the next principal at Wallin Oaks Elementary School and Amy Bauer as the next principal at Crystal Lawns Elementary School.
Zlotnikov is an Associate Principal at Alan B. Shepard Middle School in Deerfield.
She was a World History Summer School Instructional Coach at Adlai E. Stevenson High School in Lincolnshire in the summer of 2019.
Zlotnikov previously taught high school history and social studies classes from 2013 to 2019.
Zlotnikov said she loves to learn new things and was interested in the job because of District 202’s commitment to lifelong learning.
“I am excited to collaborate with teachers to create engaging learning experiences, to support students in their academic and personal growth, and to work closely with parents to ensure a strong home-school connection,” she said.
Zlotnikov’s knowledge, skills, and experience made her the ideal candidate, said Dr. Scott Fink, Director of Administration and Personnel for Elementary Schools for District 202.
“Ms. Zlotnikov is an energetic leader, dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment at Wallin Oaks,” he said.
Bauer has been the Assistant Principal at Schneider Elementary School in West Aurora since 2020.
She has eight years of experience as an elementary school assistant principal. She taught music at the Eastview Kindergarten Center in Oswego from 2011 to 2016.
Bauer said District 202 has a reputation for prioritizing student success and fostering a supportive learning environment for everyone.
“I was drawn to the Crystal Lawns team because of its dedication to making a real difference in students’ lives,” she said.
“I look forward to creating authentic relationships that serve our diverse community of students, educators, parents, and administrators who share a common goal of providing the best possible education for every student.”
Bauer’s background and experience at the elementary level and her strong communication skills make her a natural fit for Crystal Lawns, Fink said.
“Crystal Lawns Elementary, with its rich history in the district, welcomes a new principal committed to honoring its legacy while striving for the success of every student,” he said.
Both principals will begin on July 1, 2024.