Principal’s Corner

Pleasant Ave. Principal’s Profile

Mrs. Kristin Michaels is an experienced educational leader with a demonstrated ability to build strong, collaborative relationships with families, students, and colleagues. She served as the Greater Johnstown School District’s Chairperson of the Committee on Special Education (CSE) from 2023 until 2026, when she was named to succeed Cory Cotter as Principal of Pleasant Avenue Elementary.

In her administrative role as CSE Chairperson, Michaels was a member of the District’s Administrative Cabinet and Social, Emotional, and Academic Learning (SEAL) Team. She worked closely with teachers and administrators to ensure continuity, equity, and high-quality curricular programming for students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). She also collaborated across grade levels to implement and strengthen the District’s Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework, ensuring that all students receive the appropriate level of academic and behavioral support. In addition, with her building and district leadership credentials, she provided administrative support across all four school buildings as needed.

Prior to joining GJSD, Michaels served as a school psychologist with HFM BOCES for more than 15 years, where she worked with students experiencing a wide range of learning challenges. Michaels also served as the District Coordinator for the Dignity for All Students Act (DASA), where she was responsible for investigating all allegations of bullying, harassment, and discrimination, and ensuring the District’s compliance with state regulations.

As a school psychologist, Michaels collaborated with teachers and related service providers to develop behavior management and intervention plans and deliver individual and group counseling services in accordance with students’ IEPs. She also served as a liaison between families and community agencies, helping families access external support services and ensuring continuity of care for students.

Michaels earned both her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and her Master of Science in School Psychology from The College of Saint Rose. She holds professional certifications as both a School Building Leader and School District Leader, as well as permanent certification as a School Psychologist.

Michaels and her husband, Tom, reside in Mayfield with their two children, Halina (16) and TJ (10). A lifelong area resident, she grew up in Galway. In her free time, Michaels enjoys being out on the water, boating and reading – activities she treasures when her schedule allows.

Transportation Day at Pleasant Ave.

“Planes, trains, and automobiles”…. and much, much more! Students in PK – first grade have a blast at Pleasant Avenue’s annual “Transportation Day,” learning about various career paths from local professionals right here in the Johnstown community. Thank you to everyone who volunteered their time to make each “Transportation Day” a huge success.