Waverly Welcomes New Assistant Principal

Last Wednesday, Waverly opened its doors to a host of kindergarten students beginning the first chapter of their educational journeys in Eastchester. But the district’s youngest learners weren’t the only ones entering a new space on Wednesday, as Waverly Assistant Principal, Alise Olivo, also celebrated her first instructional day as a member of the building’s administrative team.

Olivo, who was officially appointed to her position in August, looked on as youngsters poured into the building with ear-to-ear grins. She felt similarly ready to get the school year underway on September 2, having spent the last few weeks acclimating herself to her new position.

“Seeing the students filling the halls on the first day of school made everything feel very real and very special,” Olivo said. “In many ways, it has truly felt like ‘coming home.’”

Olivo brings a wealth of experience to Waverly, having previously served as a classroom educator, curriculum support teacher, and—since 2015—Assistant Principal at P176x in the Bronx. She explained that she was eager to take on a new professional challenge this year and call upon the skills she has acquired throughout her 18 years in education to strengthen learning and growth at Eastchester’s K-1 school.

“I often talk about the importance of embracing change because I truly believe it is essential for growth; these last few weeks have been an opportunity to put those words into action,” said Olivo. “I have really enjoyed getting to know the staff, students, and families, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful community.”

She noted that she is thrilled to be joining a stellar team and hopes to be a valuable asset to the continued development of Eastchester’s elementary students, partnering with Waverly Principal Caitlin Mondelli to help youngsters get the most out of their time at the Hall Avenue campus.

“I pride myself on being fair, nurturing, and knowledgeable. I believe that strong relationships are at the heart of effective leadership, and I strive to create an environment where students, staff, and families feel supported, valued, and heard,” she said. “I also believe in leading with both compassion and consistency. I recognize that the district and Principal Mondelli have already established a strong, positive school culture at Waverly, and I feel fortunate to be joining a community with such a solid foundation. 

“My goal is to support and enhance the work that is already taking place, while using my strengths to help ensure that every Waverly student feels safe, supported, and empowered to learn and grow,” she added.

And even though many are still settling into their daily routines over the first week-and-a-half of the school year, Olivo already feels fully immersed in the community and said that she can’t wait to tackle new challenges alongside Waverly’s students and staff. 

“Based on what I have seen so far, everyone I have had the pleasure of working with in Eastchester is always willing to jump in and help one another. Everyone goes above and beyond every day, and that spirit of collaboration is incredibly motivating,” she said. “I am excited to see all that we can accomplish when we work together as a team this year. 

“I feel that Waverly, in particular, is such a special place for our youngest learners,” she added. “I am looking forward to celebrating their milestones and experiencing those moments alongside them, because everything still feels so magical through their eyes. Seeing the joy and excitement with which our students approach each day is truly a gift to all of us.”