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Royal Oak Schools is pleased to announce two outstanding educational leaders who will serve as elementary principals beginning in the 2026–2027 school year.
Stephan Henning Named Principal of Keller Elementary School
Stephan Henning has been selected as the next principal of Keller Elementary School. He currently serves as a middle school principal in Waterford and brings strong experience in instructional leadership, student-centered decision-making, and school community engagement.
Henning previously worked in elementary education and is excited to return to his passion for supporting younger learners. He also brings expertise in the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Primary Years Programme (PYP), which align closely with Keller’s inquiry-based learning model and commitment to whole-child development.
Throughout the selection process, Henning demonstrated a strong commitment to students, collaboration, and positive school culture. He was the top choice of a 31-member interview committee of staff and parents.
Kristin Szymanski Named Principal of Upton Elementary School
Kristin Szymanski has been selected as the next principal of Upton Elementary School. She currently serves as MTSS Coordinator at Oak Ridge Elementary and brings extensive experience in instructional leadership, student support, and school improvement.
Szymanski previously taught fourth grade at Upton, giving her a strong connection to the school community and its traditions. She is recognized for her vision around student achievement, positive school culture, and continuous improvement.
Her appointment reflects Royal Oak Schools’ commitment to developing and promoting talented internal leaders.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ms. Szymanski and Mr. Henning into these important leadership roles,” said Patrick Wolynski, Executive Director of Staff and Student Services. “Ms. Szymanski’s deep roots in our district and Mr. Henning’s extensive experience in elementary education make them outstanding choices to lead these school communities into the future.”
Both principals will work closely with their predecessors to ensure a smooth transition for students, staff, and families.
Royal Oak Schools also extends its sincere gratitude to retiring principals John Grzywack and Marcie Dryden for their 30 years of dedicated service, both beginning on August 27, 1996.
Grzywack served as principal of Upton Elementary for 16 years and previously worked as an assistant principal at Addams Middle School and Royal Oak Middle School. Dryden served as principal of Keller Elementary for 15 years and also worked as a teacher at Kimball High School, Addams Middle School, and Upton Elementary. Their leadership has made a lasting impact on the district, and they will be deeply missed.