New Principal For Wauwatosa Montessori; Eisenhower Principal Affirmed

WAUWATOSA, WI — The Wauwatosa School District on Tuesday announced the naming of a new principal for the Wauwatosa Montessori School.

The Wauwatosa Board of Education approved a recommendation from Superintendent Desmond Means to appoint Melissa Pallin as the school's new principal, according to a news release from the district. The board also reaffirmed Sumeera Mansukhani as the principal at Eisenhower Elementary School.

“I am absolutely thrilled about becoming the Principal of Wauwatosa Montessori School and joining the Wauwatosa team,” said Pallin in a news release. “It is an honor to have the opportunity to serve the staff, families, and students at Wauwatosa Montessori School. I am greatly looking forward to collaborating with staff, families, students, and the community to create exceptional Montessori learning experiences for all of our learners.”

Pallin's previous experience includes 13 years of several roles in Montessori learning, the news release said. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership at Carroll University, according to the Wauwatosa School District.

"She is a creative educational leader who works tirelessly to boost student achievement and wellbeing, foster family and community engagement, and increase staff positivity and collaboration," reads the district news release. "Not only is Ms. Pallin passionate about Montessori principles, but she also excels in the areas of instructional leadership and restorative practices."

Meanwhile, Manasukhani will remain the principal at Eisenhower after participating in a semester-long residency meant to provide a strong foundation before fully transitioning into the job of principal. During the residency, Manasukhani shadowed Mark Carter, a former educator, and was given increasing levels of responsibility.

"In this way, Ms. Mansukhani has been provided a runway to enjoy a long, successful career as a leader in Wauwatosa and leverage the talents of an experienced school leader like Mr. Carter, rather than starting out in the potentially challenging and isolating role of lone principal in a new district," the district news release said.

Wauwatosa Schools said families and staff members identified Mansukhani as the desired new principal in August 2022. Manusukhani's previous experience beyond Wauwatosa includes six years of teaching and several leadership positions such as a summer school substitute principal. She earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a master's in education from Cardinal Stritch University, the district said.

“We are so pleased that these two educational leaders have chosen to bring their talents to Wauwatosa,” stated Dr. Demond Means, Superintendent of the Wauwatosa School District. “The families, staff and students at Wauwatosa Montessori are firmly grounded in Montessori principles and philosophy, so the ability to leverage Ms. Pallin’s strong experience - as well as her passion and growth mindset - will greatly benefit this community. Ms. Mansukhani has excelled under the leadership of Mr. Mark Carter this year, and we are confident and excited about her ability to lead the Eisenhower community.”