Wayne Valley is mourning the loss of its principal Mr. Palczewski, a pillar of the Wayne community. He began his educational career at Wayne Valley as a history teacher in 1988 while also coaching the girls’ basketball and softball teams. He then received his master’s degree at William Paterson University in Educational Leadership and Administration. Palczewski moved from the classroom to become a guidance counselor at Schuyler-Colfax Middle School, and eventually, he became an assistant principal at Wayne Hills High School. Shortly after, he became the principal of Wayne Valley High School.
He loved it whenever his students and staff came and visited, following his motto “My door is always open.” He cherished every minute he spent at Wayne Valley and took pride in the school community. Mr. Palczewski was more than a principal or boss for these teachers; he was someone that they truly looked up to.
Both current members of Wayne Valley and alumni reflect on Mr. Palczewski’s legacy. In the past marking period, they have paused to remember him. Here are some things they have said:
Math teacher, Mrs. Palatucci, recalls, “As a Wayne Valley grad, I remember how eager and welcoming Mr. Palczewski was when he offered me the job here. A fun fact–not many people know we shared the same birthday! But what stands out most is the unwavering support and encouragement he showed during my health struggles over the past two years. I’m truly grateful for his compassion, flexibility, and understanding which has enabled me to still teach in the only school that has ever felt like home.”
English teacher Mrs. Hannon reflects on Mr. Palczewski’s approachability. “His door was always open, and at any given moment, he would find time to discuss any issue or concern of a faculty member. His compassion and understanding were among his strongest attributes.”
Assistant Principal Mr. Martinez says, “We had a lot of laughs at our weekly administrative meetings. I will miss those laughs.”
Mr. Palczewski was someone that the entire staff looked up to. Dr. Moreno comments, “Ken Palczewski was more than just a principal–he was a true mentor. His unwavering support and guidance shaped not only our school, but the lives of countless students and educators. He helped me grow as a leader and taught me to ensure students were at the forefront of all decision-making. His legacy of compassion and excellence will live on in all of us.”
Mr. Palczewski’s legacy goes on as former students have touching words to express. “Mr. P. was my history teacher when he worked at Manchester in 1996,” Arlene Marchese, a former Wayne Valley student and current parent, explains. “I was overjoyed to learn that he was the principal at Wayne Valley, the high school that my daughter is attending. I am deeply saddened about his passing because I was looking forward to having him as part of her high school graduation. He was a tremendous teacher and leader.”
Former student and current Wayne Valley parent, Jennifer Fowler-Dombroski reflects, “It’s been 28 years since high school softball, and yet somehow… Mr. Palczewski is still Coach P. Back then, he was the light-hearted, supportive coach who made practices fun, games exciting, and even our worst errors feel like learning moments. I always appreciated how he knew when to push us and when to just let us laugh. He made it feel like more than a game–it was a team, a family! Now, all these years later, the age gap that once felt so wide in high school has narrowed. I’m a mom now with two high schoolers of my own–and my old coach, Mr. P., is their principal. Talk about full circle! It’s surreal and so awesome to see the same guy who coached me now leading my kids’ high school. And I’m not even the only one–turns out a few of us from the softball team ended up back under his watchful eye, this time as moms. Some things really do come full circle, and some people, like Coach P., just keep showing up in the best ways. Coach P., thanks for being such a good one. For keeping it real, keeping it light, and for never fully leaving the dugout for us! You will forever be in our hearts…”
Media Center Specialist, Erica Foster, says, “Mr. Palczewski was a genuinely kind and supportive principal whose impact touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. His leadership made our school a better place, and his memory will remain with us always. He was also a great supporter of the WV Media Center, consistently offering his help to make the library a welcoming space where students could collaborate, learn, and connect.”
English teacher Mrs. Nazarko agrees, “He wanted to welcome everyone to the school. He even started the Valley Pride movement here. He was so proud of this school. He was also proud of his family. Mr. Palczewski always wanted his staff to put their families and their students first.”
Francesca DiGiovanni, a Wayne Valley senior, reflects on the moment when she was called to Mr. Palczewski’s office to receive a reward. “My guidance counselor did not tell me why I was meeting with him so I was really startled,” she admits. “However, when I walked into his office, he immediately congratulated me on my community service project and explained that the school nominated me for an award. His recognition meant a lot to me, especially considering the legacy he has left at Wayne Valley.”
Another senior, David Calcagno, says, “Mr. Palczewski was always a warm and friendly smile to brighten up your day every time you saw him. From the first time I met him at my eighth grade orientation, I felt that he truly cared about me personally, and that he always supported me.”
Finally, Mr. Palczewski’s long time administrative assistant, Lucy Couso would like to share one last message to him to show how much she misses him: “Ken, thank you for being such a wonderful boss, Dean of Students to my girls, football coach to my son, and most importantly, an amazing friend to my family and me. I miss our daily conversations regarding our families’ lives.” She believes this quote from Maya Angelou reflects Mr. Palczewski’s impact on Wayne Valley: “I have heard that people will forget what you said; people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Though he is no longer with us, Mr. Palczewski’s compassion and positivity will always be remembered all throughout Wayne. He has made a tremendous impact on many people’s lives through his dedication to his students, staff, and community. He took great pride and responsibility in his position at Wayne Valley High School. His legacy of Valley Pride will live on through the students, staff and community.
