The Coweta County Board of Education approved Paula Ercolini as the new principal of Poplar Road Elementary School, replacing Susan Wareham, who will be assuming the duties of director of elementary curriculum and instruction.

Ercolini holds an Ed.S. in school administration as well as certification in middle grades and early childhood education. During her time as a classroom teacher, she attained the distinction of being first runner up for Georgia Teacher of the Year.

Originally from Birmingham, Ala., Ercolini comes to Coweta County from the Paulding County system, where she has been principal of W. C. Abney Elementary School since 1996.

“I'm thrilled to be in Coweta County, especially at Poplar Road,” Ercolini said. “It is an excellent school, and I am excited about the high level of commitment the staff has toward student achievement — all the staff, not just teachers.”

As with the other new principals in the system, Paula Ercolini is already on site, working with staff members, planning for the new school year.