Algonquin Road School names new principal

The assistant principal of an Arlington Heights elementary school will become the principal of Algonquin Road School, part of Fox River Grove Elementary School District 3, starting July 1.

The new hire, Scott Walton, replaces Sandy Ozimek, who is set to take over as District 3′s superintendent after the retirement of current superintendent, Tim Mahaffy, on June 30.

Walton currently is the assistant principal at Westgate Elementary School in Arlington Heights and has six years of experience as an assistant principal, according to a news release.

Before his administrative role, Walton was a fourth- and fifth-grade teacher for 11 years at Mechanics Grove Elementary School in Mundelein.

He has a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Eastern Illinois University and a master’s in educational leadership and administration from Northeastern Illinois University.

“Mr. Walton was selected from a talented candidate pool in a competitive process which included input and participation from Algonquin Road School staff and District 3 administration,” the district said in the release. “Mr. Walton’s commitment to students’ academic excellence and social/emotional well-being, safety, and collaborative spirit were common themes throughout his interview. He looks forward to building positive relationships with students, staff, parents, and members of the Fox River Grove community. “

In a statement, Walton said he is “honored and excited” to join Algonquin Road School’s staff.

“Fox River Grove District 3 and Algonquin Road School have a long history of excellence and I plan to work hand in hand with the staff and community to continue that tradition,” Walton said.