February 18, 2025
Jeff Gaglione Named New WMS Principal
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Dear WPS Community:
I am pleased to announce that after a thorough selection process, I have appointed Mr. Jeff Gaglione as the next principal of Watertown Middle School. Jeff joins us from Quinn Middle School in Hudson, where he has served as principal since 2019. Throughout the interview process and site visits, it became clear that Jeff embodies the leadership qualities, vision, and commitment to student success that will greatly benefit our school community. He has officially accepted the position.
Jeff brings a wealth of experience as a dedicated educator and school leader. His track record includes fostering strong relationships with students and staff, maintaining high academic and behavioral expectations, and implementing initiatives that enhance student learning and well-being. During our visit to Quinn Middle School, we witnessed firsthand the positive culture he has cultivated—one rooted in a clear vision, high expectations, and an unwavering focus on what is best for students. We are confident that his leadership will build upon the great work already happening at Watertown Middle School.
I want to extend my sincere gratitude to the 15-member Screening Committee for their dedication and countless hours spent reviewing materials and interviewing nine candidates. Their hard work and thoughtful input were instrumental in bringing us to this decision. I also want to thank the 58 individuals who provided valuable feedback after meeting the finalists during their visits to the middle school, the six student tour guides who lead the finalists through the middle school, as well as the eight team members who joined me on site visits this week Your insights and commitment to this process have been invaluable, and I truly appreciate your time and effort.
We are excited to officially welcome Jeff to the Watertown community on July 1 and will provide opportunities in the coming months for students, families, and staff to connect with him. Please join me in congratulating Jeff Gaglione on his new role—I am excited for the future of Watertown Middle School under his leadership!
Sincerely,
Dede Galdston, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools