New Principals Appointed at Braeside and Lincoln Elementary Schools

At its March 20 meeting, the North Shore School District 112 Board of Education approved the appointment of two new principals, both effective July 1. Mr. Joseph “Joey” Hailpern will be the new principal of Braeside Elementary School, and Mrs. Claire M. Kowalczyk will be the new principal of Lincoln Elementary School.

Currently, Mr. Hailpern is principal of Thomas Edison Elementary School in Skokie District 69, where he has served since 2008. Prior to that, he served as an assistant principal in Mannheim District 83 and taught third and fourth grades in Los Angeles, Winnetka and Evanston. “Mr. Hailpern brings to the position exceptionally strong leadership skills, experience in differentiating curriculum to ensure all students achieve their full potential, and a commitment to student-centered learning and data-driven decision-making,” said North Shore School District 112 Superintendent of Schools Dr. David L. Behlow.

Mr. Hailpern lives in Evanston. He is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Curriculum and Social Inquiry from National Louis University, and he holds a Master’s Degree in School Administration and Leadership from the University of California at Los Angeles and a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from National Louis University.

Mrs. Kowalczyk is currently the principal of Betsy Ross Elementary School in Prospect Heights District 23, where she has served in that capacity since 2008. Prior to her current principal position, she served as an assistant principal and Early Childhood and primary classroom teacher in Palatine. “Mrs. Kowalczyk brings to the position outstanding leadership abilities, strong knowledge of early literacy, and a track record of working with staff and families to ensure student success,” said Dr. Behlow.

Mrs. Kowalczyk lives in Palatine. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership from Roosevelt University, and holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Illinois University, a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from National Louis University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from St. Norbert College in DePere, Wisconsin.