LYNN — Lynn Public Schools Superintendent Evonne S. Alvarez has named longtime educator George Papayannis principal of Drewicz Elementary School.
With an extensive background in both STEM and education, Papayannis received his Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering from Drexel University, and went on to receive his Master of Secondary Science Education from Columbia University. He then completed his Master of School Leadership Education at Harvard University in 2016.
Papayannis has taught psychics, engineering, and environmental science at Boston Public Schools, Framingham Public Schools, and in Colorado. He also served as the Head of School of The Cathedral School, a Bilingual PreK-8 Greek Orthodox Christian parochial school on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Before stepping into the role of Drewicz Elementary School Principal, he served as the Director of the Upper School at Acera: The Massachusetts School of Science, Creativity and Leadership.
Alzarez provided insight as to why she selected Papayannis for the role.
“Mr. Papayannis brings nearly two decades of experience in education as a school leader, instructional coach and STEM educator, dedicated to supporting student growth and strong instructional practice,” Alvarez wrote in a statement.
“His experience has reinforced that schools thrive when educators, families and the community work together to create a positive and inclusive environment,” she added.
Papayannis described his approach to teaching as “asking, listening, and observing to understand the root of the opportunity we’re working on so we can design the most impactful solutions for our students and their families,” he wrote in a statement.
Papayannis also explained why he aligns with the values of Drewicz Elementary School.
“As a child of Greek immigrants, I’ve always been attracted to schools where many cultures are represented. Drewicz has been demonstrating growth and improvement. After meeting some of the team, I could feel the dedication they have to the school and felt like I wanted to be a part of this team and community,” he said.
“I look forward to partnering with the Drewicz community to continue the school’s strong culture of care, curiosity and high expectations,” he added.
