Gail Pawlikowski

Spanning thirty-eight years, Chief Academic Officer Ms. Gail Pawlikowski’s career working with the Edison Board of Education is coming to an end. Pawlikowski has been in the district for all but two years of her entire career. Starting off at Herbert Hoover as a teacher, she grew into the role of Assistant Principal here at EHS and soon advanced as the Principal at JP Stevens. For the past few years, Pawlikowski has filled the role of Chief Academic Officer for the Edison Board of Education.

Besides her professional growth, Pawlikowski appreciates the opportunities and collaboration that has emerged during her time here. From moments of learning from others to recognizing and addressing the needs of the district, she has been significantly involved in finding new ways to grow. In addition, Pawlikowski values the togetherness of events like staff development, workshops, and meetings as an experience to learn.

“I’ve learned so much from every experience. That’s why I never left Edison, and that’s why I encourage people to join Edison now because I see the opportunities here for growth,” she said.

With so much experience in the learning environment, Pawlikowski has come to prioritize the students and improve their quality of education. The importance of education has been a theme she has stuck to throughout her career and a legacy she hopes to leave behind.

“I have always valued education. And I do believe that most of the people in the district value education and we focus on students,” she said. She also acknowledges the opportunity of learning from students, just as students have learned from her.

“That’s how we stay current and interesting for kids and help them be successful. That’s what it’s all about: to make sure students live productive, healthy, happy lives,” said Pawlikowski. Beyond pushing for the content of instruction, she pushes for a meaningful connection between students and administrators. These connections, along with the Edison school community that include the staff, paraprofessionals, security, custodian, students, and teachers, fulfilled her with their excitement and passion for education.