NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Michael Galland started his career as an educator at Columbus Elementary School 19 years ago teaching third grade.
He returned Tuesday as principal of one of the largest grade schools in the City School District of New Rochelle, welcoming about 800 students and dozens of teachers and staff to the start of an exciting year at Columbus Elementary.
“A new day, a new change. It’s a kind of homecoming,” Galland said with obvious enthusiasm after welcoming a group of kindergartners and their parents. “I feel great responsibility to help the school refocus on the instructional goals we have set, of readers and writers workshop, and a balanced approach to math learning.”
First through fifth grades streamed in at 8:25 a.m., entering through the school yard rather than the front door, which is the normal procedure. The overnight rain ended, the buses arrived on time, school supplies were collected from parents smoothly and positively, and students soon settled into their classrooms.
The excitement and the enthusiasm in the school was palpable. Teachers and staff were especially enthused because of Galland’s return to school as principal.
“He started here, he’s meant to be here,” said Anne Marie Virtudes, who teaches English as a New Language in third, fourth and fifth grade. “We are excited. He brings great energy to the school.”