Jennifer VanWagnen named Sarah G. Banks Middle School principal

The Walled Lake Consolidated Schools’ Board of Education appointed Jennifer VanWagnen the new principal at Sarah G. Banks Middle School during the June 6, 2024 meeting.

“I am so excited to continue the tradition of excellence that has been established at Sarah G. Banks to provide students with the best middle school experience possible,” said VanWagnen. “I started my career as a middle school science teacher and competitive cheer coach, and I am eager to interact with this age group again.”

VanWagnen has been with the district since 2022, where she’s served as the principal at Meadowbrook Elementary for the past two years. VanWagnen came to Walled Lake from Brooklyn, Michigan. She spent four years as the principal of Columbia Upper Elementary after teaching science for 15 years at Columbia Central High School in Brooklyn and Sanford Middle School in Florida.

“My time serving as the principal at Meadowbrook Elementary has filled my heart with joy,” said VanWagnen. “I am so very grateful for the relationships I have built with the staff, students and community.”

“Jennifer has been an exceptional principal at Meadowbrook Elementary, demonstrating outstanding leadership and commitment,” said Dr. Michael Lonze, incoming Superintendent of Schools. “She brings a wealth of experience from her previous administrative and teaching positions. I am confident that Jennifer's extensive background and dedication to education will continue to greatly benefit our community."