John Poljacik Appointed
New Rochester Principal
By Martha Slater

The Rochester School Board recently announced the hiring of John R. Poljacik as the new principal of the Rochester School.

A native Vermonter, Poljacik was born, raised and educated in Proctor. He graduated from Castleton State College with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and also earned a Masters’ Degree in Curriculum and Instruction there.

Poljacik has worked in several schools as a teacher and principal; most recently as Superintendent of Schools for the Grand Isle Supervisory Union. There he oversaw five school districts, 700 elementary students, and 400 high school students, who had school choice, since there is no high school in the islands.

For the past 13 years, he has served the Education Division of the College of St. Joseph as adjunct instructor, where he teaches two required courses in the masters’ program for graduate students. He also teaches a supervision and evaluation course for those interested in school leadership.

"I’ve met with Principal Bob Gray, and will soon meet with the staff and students, before the school year ends," Poljacik told the Herald. "Hopefully, I’ll have the opportunity to meet with all board members soon and then with the community during the summer months."

Poljacik noted that, "Whereas I have no agenda, I do intend to maintain the continuity of leadership that Bob has provided, and build on his achievements. I also intend to implement a leadership transition program that will essentially be seamless for all participants."

Poljacik, who lives in Rutland Town with his wife, Deb, has two daughters, a stepson and two grandchildren. ("Today that is. One more grandchild is due any day," Pojacik noted.) A licensed safety instructor for ATV, boating, hunter education and snowmobiling, he is also a fan of racing and family recreational activities and said he enjoys working on his Corvette.

"I’m absolutely looking forward to many happy and exciting days in Rochester," Poljacik concluded.

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