Page 4 THE VILLADOM TIMES III • June 5, 2013 Allendale Principal wins Bergen County Excellence Award by John Koster Hillside School Principal Anastasia Maroulis had been awarded the Bergen County Principals and Supervisors Association’s Administrative Excellence Award for her Hillside School Principal Anastasia Maroulis service to education in Allendale. “My belief in service is strong, and for me that starts at the elementary level,” Maroulis said. “I have committed my services and dedicated time to lead youths at my church in the local chapter of the Greek Orthodox Youth Association. That work included guiding them in their personal spiritual searches through fellowship and philanthropic activities. I have committed myself to working with young new educators and have assisted them in building strong resumes and interview skills as they begin their new careers. This work has been personally important for me as I was assisted by many in my own professional job searches and feel the need to return what was bestowed upon me.” Allendale Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael J. Barcadepone said, “Ms. Maroulis had created an excellent student-center environment at Hillside School, and her initiatives are clearly set so that our students are prepared for the 21st century. Her commitment to the district has certainly been recognized by her tireless efforts...Ms. Maroulis is a true asset to the Allendale Public School District.” Lisa Knutzen, president of the Allendale Parent Teacher Organization, also praised Maroulis. “Whether it is 10 degrees out and snowy or a beautiful fall or spring morning, Ms. Maroulis can be found outside greeting each child by name when they are dropped off for school. When we entrust our children to her each day, I know through her leadership of the faculty and staff they are in great hands.” Maroulis received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and fine arts from Rider University in Lawrenceville, and a master’s degree in reading from William Paterson University. She also holds a master’s degree in education from Teachers College of Columbia University, where she has also done graduate work. She also attended the Princeton University Principal’s Center for Educational Leadership in 2003. She served as a basic skills instructor at the Hawes School in Ridgewood in 1990-91, as an elementary school teacher in Wyckoff from 1992-2002, and as an adjunct professor of Children’s Literature at Hudson County Community College. Her first posting as a principal was at the Thiells Elementary School in Thiells, New York. She became principal of the Hillside School in Allendale in 2002.