This message was emailed to families on Monday, May 22, 2023.
Dear Pine Tree families,
At a special meeting on Wednesday, May 3, the Monroe-Woodbury Board of Education approved the appointment of Karin Morales, Ed.D., as principal of Pine Tree Elementary School. Dr. Morales will replace Bryan Giudice, longtime Pine Tree principal, effective August 14, 2023. Best wishes to Mr. Giudice as he plans for his well deserved retirement.
Dr. Morales is an established member of the district leadership team. She has been employed by the school district for 15 years and currently serves as director of instructional support programs. In this role, Dr. Morales oversees the district’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) as well as programs related to English language learners (ELL). These programs provide instructional support to ensure success and opportunities for all students. Dr. Morales began her M-W career as assistant principal at Smith Clove Elementary, followed by assistant principal at Monroe-Woodbury Middle School.
She is known in the district for being a strong advocate for every student, making sure that all voices are represented and heard. I am confident that Dr. Morales will bring this same level of commitment and energy to Pine Tree and will accomplish great things as building principal.
Warm regards,
Elsie Rodriguez
Superintendent of Schools
Want to know more about Dr. Morales? Read on!
Q: What positions have you held in the Monroe-Woodbury Central School District?
A: I am currently the director of instructional support programs. Prior to this position, I was an assistant principal in Smith Clove for four years and then an assistant principal at Monroe-Woodbury Middle School for three years.
Q: How many years have you been in M-W?
A: This year is my 15th year in the district.
Q: What are some of your goals in the new position?
A: I hope to continue to build upon the strong learning environment at Pine Tree. My ultimate goal is to ensure that all students feel safe and that they are excited to learn, to explore and reach their fullest potential as students and as citizens. In conjunction, I want our teachers to feel that they are supported and have the tools they need to create meaningful relationships and that they feel empowered to advocate and help our students be the very best that they can be in every facet of education. And last but certainly not least, I want our parents to feel included and involved in their child's learning, to feel comfortable sharing ideas and asking questions, so that they, too, are proud that their child attends Pine Tree Elementary School.
Q: What do you hope your legacy will be?
A: No matter the role, I believe my legacy would remain the same: I am willing to do whatever it takes to make sure our students have everything they need to succeed. I will always advocate for every student to make sure that all voices are represented and heard. I am ready to roll up my sleeves and work alongside our teachers and staff, not asking anything that I wouldn't be ready and willing to do myself. I don't want that to change.
Q: List three words that best describe you.
A: Dedicated, supportive, empathetic
Q: What is something we would be surprised to know about you?
A: My husband and I just started raising chickens and currently have 12 that are in their awkward teenage stage.
Q: What do you do in your free time (hobbies, etc.)?
A: I enjoy running. It's really been something that our family has enjoyed for years since both of our children have been competitive runners for over 10 years. This year, I completed two half marathons and hope to do a full marathon in October. We also have three dogs that keep us occupied during any free time.