By GAIL LOWE
WAKEFIELD — As of Wednesday, July 1, the Walton School will have a new principal — Jeri Hammond. She replaces Margo Perriello, who now leads the Early Childhood Center at the Doyle School on Paul Avenue.
The announcement of Hammond’s placement came from Superintendent of Schools Dr. Stephen K. Zrike this week. She will be paid $102,000 annually.
Sometime in the next few weeks an event will be held to introduce Hammond to students, staff, parents and members of the community.
“Ms. Hammond brings with her more than 20 years of experience teaching in elementary classrooms and a deep-seated passion for teaching and learning,” said Zrike.
Wakefield’s superintendent added that Hammond finds nothing more rewarding than being part of the first few years of a child’s educational life, knowing that it is then that they whet a lifelong appetite for learning.
“With a background in both elementary and Special Education, Ms. Hammond is a fierce advocate for enriching and challenging learning experience for all learners,” Zrike said.
Hammond has been working in the Brookline public school district for the past 10 years, both at the school and district level. Zrike said she worked collaboratively to develop an innovative mentoring program for new teachers, coached countless teachers, facilitated professional learning experiences and developed educational curricula.
She has worked in partnership with parents and teachers to spearhead numerous initiatives over the years that have had a positive impact on student achievement.
Hammond holds a bachelor of arts degree in elementary and Special Education and a master of arts degree as a consulting teacher of Reading from Wheelock College. She also holds a master of arts degree in educational leadership through the EDCO leadership institute.
“Through the interview process, Ms. Hammond distinguished herself as a reflective and collaborative leader who brings to her leadership the same passion, creativity and commitment that have been the hallmark of her teaching for decades,” said Zrike. “She is thrilled to have the opportunity to lead the Walton and privileged to be joining a community so clearly committed to providing the best possible learning experience for students.”
Dr. Eileen Woods was hired to serve as interim principal at the Walton for the 2014-2015 academic year at a salary of $90,000.
