GALION — The Galion City School District has announced Jennifer Allerding will be the new superintendent.
Allerding currently works as the director of instruction and learning, but will relinquish that position and step into her new role as superintendent on Aug. 1.
“I am blessed to have the opportunity to serve as the superintendent of Galion City Schools. During the last six years, I have had the pleasure of working with a team of amazing staff members, terrific kids, and supportive families and community members,” Allerding said.
Allerding graduated from Kent State University with a bachelor’s degree and then graduated from Ashland University with a master’s degree in administration.
“My family has a long history in Galion. The community and district have provided us so many opportunities. I am happy to work hard to continue the history of excellence, provide opportunities for the children of Galion, and to give back to a community that means so much to my family,” Allerding said.
“As we begin the 2020-2021 school year, our team will focus on continuing to build relationships and will also continue our efforts of improving in the areas of academics, athletics, and the arts. The staff and our students have worked extremely hard in all three of these areas over the last few years.
“I look forward to supporting these efforts as we continually strive to improve. Safety is always a consideration and will be a top priority as we begin the year in the fall. We are excited about the day our students will come back to us. We will work as a team to develop a plan that results in the best environment for us all,” she said.
Melisa Watters, the current primary principal, will take over the director of instruction and learning position on Aug. 1.
“The district is fortunate to have Melisa Watters moving into the director of instruction and learning position. She provides a wealth of knowledge that will support our teachers and impact the achievement of our students in a positive manner. She has high expectations, works extremely hard, and cares for the staff and students of our district,” Allerding said.
Katy Erlsten, the current assistant principal in the primary building, will move up into the principal position.
“I am thrilled to have a longtime assistant principal, Katy Erlsten, moving into the role of Galion Primary Principal. Katy will do an outstanding job of continuing to support this building and our littlest tigers. Her dedication to the district is appreciated, and I’m excited to see her in this new role,” Allerding said.
The administration is hoping to bring a recommendation for the new assistant principal in the primary to the next board meeting.
