Royal Oak Schools Announce New Principals for Keller and Upton Elementaries
(ROS, June 6, 2026)
Royal Oak, MI – Royal Oak Schools is pleased to announce the appointments of two outstanding educational leaders who will serve as elementary school principals beginning with the 2026-2027 school year.
Stephan Henning Named Principal of Keller Elementary School
Stephan Henning has been selected as the next principal of Keller Elementary School. Henning currently serves as a middle school principal in Waterford and brings a strong record of instructional leadership, student-centered decision-making, and school community engagement.
Before moving into middle school administration, Henning worked in elementary education and is eager to return to his passion for working with younger learners and elementary school communities. Henning also brings valuable expertise in the International Baccalaureate (IB) and Primary Years Programme (PYP) frameworks, which are used by Keller Elementary. His experience with inquiry-based learning, global-mindedness, and whole-child development aligns closely with Keller’s educational mission and will help build upon the school’s strong culture and academic excellence.
Throughout the interview process, Henning demonstrated a deep commitment to students, staff collaboration, and fostering a supportive learning environment. Mr. Henning was the top choice among the selection committee, made up of 31 staff members and parents, who interviewed a strong pool of candidates for the two positions.
Kristin Szymanski Named Principal of Upton Elementary School
Kristin Szymanski has been selected as the next principal of Upton Elementary School. She currently serves as the district’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) Coordinator at Oak Ridge Elementary and brings extensive experience in instructional leadership, student support, and collaborative school improvement.
Prior to her current role, Szymanski taught fourth grade at Upton, giving her a strong connection to the school community and a deep understanding of the traditions and values that make Upton a special place for students and families.
Throughout the selection process, Szymanski distinguished herself as an exceptionally qualified candidate with a clear vision for student achievement, positive school culture, and continuous improvement. Her appointment reflects Royal Oak Schools’ commitment to developing and promoting talented internal leaders.
“We are thrilled to welcome both Ms. Szymanski and Mr. Henning into these important leadership roles,” said Patrick Wolynski, Executive Director of Staff and Student Services. “Ms. Szymanski’s deep roots in our district and connection to the Upton community, combined with Mr. Henning’s extensive leadership experience and strong background in elementary education, make them outstanding choices to lead these school communities into the future.”
Both principals will spend time working closely with their predecessors to ensure smooth transitions for students, staff, and families.
Royal Oak Schools also extends its sincere gratitude to our retiring principals, Mr. John Grzywack and Mrs. Marcie Dryden, for their dedicated service and leadership. Mr. Grzywack and Mrs. Dryden have each worked for Royal Oak Schools for 30 years, starting on the same date, August 27, 1996.
Mr. Grzywack has been principal of Upton Elementary for 16 years and worked previously as an assistant principal at Addams Middle School and Royal Oak Middle School, and as a teacher at Oakland Elementary, Keller Middle School, and Starr Elementary. Mrs. Dryden has been principal of Keller Elementary for 15 years and has worked as a teacher in Kimball High School, Addams Middle School, and Upton Elementary School. She was also the coach of basketball, softball, and volleyball at Kimball High School. Their contributions to the district and their schools have left a lasting impact, and Royal Oak Schools is deeply appreciative of the care, professionalism, and leadership they have provided throughout their tenure. We thank them for their service and wish them continued success in their next chapters.
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