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Greenwich Schools Appoint New Science Program Coordinator

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  Published in Science and Technology on Monday, March 23rd 2026 at 12:55 GMT by Patch
      Locale: UNITED STATES

GREENWICH, CT - March 23, 2026 - Greenwich Public Schools (GPS) today announced the appointment of Dr. Kate Krizan as the new Science Program Coordinator, a move signaling a continued commitment to bolstering Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education within the district. The appointment, effective immediately, comes as schools nationwide increasingly prioritize STEM skills to prepare students for the demands of a rapidly evolving 21st-century workforce.

Dr. Krizan steps into the role previously held by Dr. Derek Ross, and will be responsible for the comprehensive oversight of K-12 science curriculum and instruction across all GPS schools. This includes curriculum development, teacher training, assessment strategies, and fostering innovative approaches to science learning. The district hopes Dr. Krizan's leadership will further enhance student engagement and achievement in science, aligning with both state standards and national benchmarks.

Dr. Krizan's arrival is particularly timely. A recent report by the National Science Foundation highlighted a growing skills gap in STEM fields, emphasizing the need for early and effective science education. The report specifically noted a decline in American students' performance in international science assessments, prompting calls for curriculum reform and increased investment in STEM teacher development. Greenwich Public Schools appears to be proactively addressing these concerns with this key appointment.

Prior to joining GPS, Dr. Krizan served as a Science Curriculum Specialist within the Stamford Public Schools district. Her experience there encompassed a broad range of responsibilities, including designing and implementing hands-on science lessons, leading professional development workshops for teachers, and collaborating with administrators to align curriculum with district goals. Sources within Stamford Public Schools describe Dr. Krizan as a dynamic and collaborative leader with a passion for fostering inquiry-based learning.

"Dr. Krizan's deep understanding of science education and curriculum development made her an ideal candidate," stated Dr. Mary Ramirez, Superintendent of Greenwich Public Schools. "We are confident that her vision and expertise will inspire our students and empower our teachers to deliver high-quality science instruction." Dr. Ramirez also commended Dr. Ross for his years of dedicated service to the district, stating that his contributions laid a solid foundation for Dr. Krizan to build upon.

The emphasis on K-12 science education within GPS isn't new. In recent years, the district has implemented several initiatives aimed at enhancing STEM learning, including increased funding for science labs and equipment, the introduction of robotics programs in middle and high schools, and partnerships with local universities and science museums. These initiatives aim to provide students with opportunities to explore scientific concepts through hands-on activities, real-world applications, and mentorship experiences.

However, the role of Science Program Coordinator is crucial for ensuring the consistency and effectiveness of these efforts. Dr. Krizan will be tasked with coordinating these various programs and initiatives, ensuring that they are aligned with the district's overall science education goals. This includes developing a cohesive K-12 curriculum that builds upon prior knowledge and prepares students for advanced studies in science and related fields.

The appointment of Dr. Krizan also reflects a growing national trend towards interdisciplinary STEM education. Rather than teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics as separate subjects, educators are increasingly integrating these disciplines to create more engaging and relevant learning experiences. This approach emphasizes problem-solving, critical thinking, and collaboration - skills that are essential for success in the 21st-century workforce. Dr. Krizan is expected to champion this integrated approach within the Greenwich Public Schools district.

Looking ahead, Dr. Krizan has expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with teachers, administrators, and the wider community to further enhance science education in Greenwich. She plans to conduct a comprehensive review of the district's current science curriculum and identify areas for improvement. She also intends to explore opportunities for expanding STEM enrichment programs and providing students with access to cutting-edge science technologies.