Fowlerville Community Schools Announces New Leadership at High School and HT Smith Elementary
Fowlerville, MI – Fowlerville Community Schools is pleased to announce new leadership at Fowlerville High School and HT Smith Elementary. Nick Zajas has been named Principal and Tammy Steffee, Assistant Principal at Fowlerville High School. In addition, Ross Richard, has assumed Principal duties at HT Smith Elementary, which will lead to the same position at the new Fowlerville Elementary School when it opens later this year.
Mr. Zajas earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Madonna University and an Education Specialist degree and master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of Michigan – Flint. In 2021 he served as the Dean of Students at Fowlerville High School and then was named Assistant Principal the following year. In addition, he has 14 years of teaching experience, and serves on the district leadership team for PBIS/MTSS. Zajas will also serve as the Principal of the Fowlerville Online Learning Academy (FOLA), providing a smooth transition between programs for students.
Ms. Steffee earned her undergraduate degree from Slippery Rock University with a double major in Elementary Education K-8 and Special Education K-12 as well as master’s degrees in Education/Biotechnology and School Administration from Clarion University. With 31 years of education experience, she joined Fowlerville Community Schools in 2007, spending six years at HT Smith Elementary before moving to the high school serving as a Special Education Teacher. Prior to her arrival in Fowlerville, she had roles as an Assistant Principal and a Special Education Director.
“We are thrilled to announce Mr. Zajas and Ms. Steffee as our new leadership team at Fowlerville High School,” notes Matthew Stuard, Superintendent of Fowlerville Community Schools. “We are incredibly fortunate to have two dedicated and experienced leaders at the helm of our high school. Both have been with the district for several years, consistently demonstrating their commitment to our students and the community,” Stuard also noted.
Mr. Richard comes to Fowlerville Community Schools after most recently serving as the Principal at Gateway Elementary School in St. Johns, Michigan. He has also held roles as Dean of Students, as well as an elementary teacher and early childhood special education teacher. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Alma College and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Central Michigan University.
“Fowlerville Community Schools is thankful to have someone with Ross’s experience leading HT Smith Elementary as we begin a new school year,” Stuard also noted. “He is known for his high energy, enthusiasm and strong athletic background, which will greatly benefit our youngest learners and athletes. His prior experience as the Principal at Gateway Elementary in St. Johns will allow for a smooth transition for students, staff and families.”
Fowlerville Community Schools are committed to providing a quality education experience for all students in a safe, orderly, healthy and nurturing environment. The district’s principles are educational excellence, effective leadership, personal integrity, mutual respect and continuous improvement through staff, student and community involvement.
