Xrisovalantou “Valia” Garbis was named Principal of the Jane L. Westerhold Early Learning Center at the April 15 Board of Education Meeting.

Garbis will replace Margarite Beniaris who will retire at the end of this school year after serving 17 years as Director of the Early Learning Center. 

“We are incredibly grateful to Mrs. Beniaris’ dedication and leadership to the children and families of the Jane L. Westerhold Early Learning Center,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Michael Amadei. “She has had a profound impact on the lives of countless students, staff and families.”

For the last year, Garbis has served as assistant principal of the Early Learning Center. Prior to that, she was a Student Services Coordinator in District 62, where she was responsible for administering and supervising special education programs and services in compliance with state and federal rules and regulations.

“I am honored to have the opportunity to lead the Early Learning Center alongside a great staff and community,” said Garbis. “I look forward to continuing my work at the ELC in this new role.”

Prior to her time as an assistant principal and student services coordinator, Garbis spent nearly eight years as an Early Childhood teacher and teacher facilitator serving students and families at the Early Learning Center. Before joining District 62, Garbis served for seven years in Chicago Public Schools as a Kindergarten, 1st and 6th grade teacher.  

“We are incredibly excited to welcome Valia Garbis as the new Principal of the Early Learning Center,” said Dr. Amadei. “She has had a wealth of experience in early childhood education and has been a wonderful presence at the ELC since her appointment as assistant principal last year. I am excited for the future of the ELC under Mrs. Garbis’ leadership.”

Garbis earned her Masters at DePaul University in Elementary Education. She went on to receive her Special Education, English Language Learners (ELL), Early Childhood Endorsements at North Park University. She most recently obtained her Masters in Educational Leadership through the Principal Preparation Program at North Park University.

Garbis and her family have lived in WIlmette for over 20 years. Garbis and her husband, Dan have four children: Anastasios a college senior, Maria a college sophomore, Antigoni a high school senior and Elias a high school freshman.

“What drives me is building relationships, collaboration, and continuous improvement,” said Garbis. “I am devoted to providing  a school and community partnership to foster a safe, supportive and inclusive learning environment where all of our young learners can flourish and grow.” 

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