Kristen Evans remembers walking into Westwood’s Sheehan Elementary School for the first time at the start of the 2007-2008 school year. She was about to take the helm as principal.
“I was excited and I was scared because I was taking over for a woman who had been in the Westwood community for over 30 years,” said Evans. “She was a lovely woman, and this staff was like her family. I remember thinking, ‘Holy cow, I have big shoes to fill. I have to work hard to celebrate her legacy and create our own community.’”
Before coming to Westwood, Evans spent 15 years teaching in Milton. She says it was there the seed was planted—she would seek a career in school administration.
“I had a great experience in Milton,” said Evans. “From the beginning the superintendent and assistant superintendent got me involved in many committees where I had unique responsibilities. This allowed me to see the different roles in administration. It wasn’t an ‘ah-ha’ moment. It was more that the opportunities whetted my appetite for what administration is like.”
As for what creating a community looked like under her tenure, she says that involves making sure every child is seen and heard.
“We know their name, we know their story,” said Evans. “The teachers come to school with a commitment to do their best every day. Every adult in this building – teachers, assistant teachers, cafeteria workers, custodians – we truly walk that walk. We’re not just saying it. Every person who walks in the door always has a feeling of welcome and knows kids here are cared for. Elementary school is so important because that’s their foundation. We want to grow those seeds so the rest of their experience is a positive one.”
In a bit of kismet, Donna Tobin will take over for Evans after her last day on January 1, 2026 as Interim Principal. The two worked together in Milton when Evans was the assistant principal at the school where Tobin taught.
“The Sheehan School would not be the amazing place it is today without Kristen Evan’s leadership,” said Westwood Public Schools Superintendent Timothy Piwowar. “We are incredibly grateful for all the years she has given to Sheehan and the broader Westwood community. We wish her a long, happy and healthy retirement.”
Evans says her future includes more family time. Her daughter plays lacrosse at Hobart and William Smith College in Geneva, NY, so she’s looking forward to attending more of her games. One thing she might not miss is the round-trip commute she’s made from Hull to Westwood for the last 18 years.
Commute aside, Evans says leaving the Sheehan is bittersweet.
“I have had an amazing time here in Westwood,” said Evans. “Many of us have worked together for more than 10 years. We have become good friends and challenged each other. This is a phenomenal district. Our parents’ commitment to students is second to none. This has really been an extraordinary career; coming to Westwood 18 years ago was one of the best decisions I have ever made.”
