We held a rigorous and comprehensive selection process for the new principal for St. Louis Park Middle School. SLP students, parents/caregivers and staff from across the district participated in the interview selection process and we wish to thank all who were involved for their time and dedication to this process. 

We are pleased to announce that Ms. Melissa Kalinowski was selected to serve as Middle School Principal and will begin her role on July 3. Ms. Kalinowski has a ten-year track-record as a successful school leader serving in principal, assistant principal, and administrative intern roles. Most recently, Ms. Kalinowski has served as the principal of Frost Lake Elementary School in St. Paul Public Schools for the past four years. Ms. Malinowski also spent 16 years as a middle school social studies teacher at South View Middle School in Edina.

Ms. Kalinowski is a strong instructional leader focused on culturally-relevant teaching and learning and holds deep belief in every student’s ability to succeed. Ms. Kalinowski is known for creating strong building systems for safe and organized daily school operations, implementing a model of shared leadership and collaboration, and remaining steadfast in providing all students a quality education that is standards-based and culturally relevant.

We know staff, students, and families are excited to meet their new principal. Ms. Kalinsowski will informally engage with staff and families at various meetings and events this spring and summer prior to the start of the school year. For now, here’s a message she’d like to share with the middle school community: 

“I’m excited to return to middle level education, the age group and model that I am passionate about serving. I believe in forming strong relationships based on mutual respect and understanding and I value diverse perspectives. I also believe in high expectations and firm learning goals for all students and in flexible learning pathways based on students’ strengths, interests, and experiences. I look forward to joining this community and working collaboratively to ensure SLP Middle School is a place where all students feel belonging and experience academic success.” - Ms. Melissa Kalinowski.

Ms. Kalinowski received a Bachelor of Arts in History and Social Studies from Augustana College, a Masters’ of Education in Teaching and Learning from Saint Mary’s University, and received her K-12 Principal Licensure and Education Specialist in Education Administration from St. Thomas University. 

St. Louis Park Public Schools extends its sincerest gratitude to Jason Boll for his contributions and leadership during his time as interim principal. For the past year and a half, he has demonstrated invaluable guidance and support to our staff, students, and community. Mr. Boll has an unwavering commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and we wish him all the best as he returns to his role as Assistant Principal at the middle school.

Please join the entire St. Louis Park Public Schools community in welcoming Melissa Kalinowski to St. Louis Park Middle School!