Katie Nowak, Principal

Mrs. Katherine (Katie) Nowak joined the New Albany Learning Community in the summer of 2016 as building principal of the 2-8 Building for grades 2-5, now known as the New Albany Intermediate School housing grades 4 through 6. 

Mrs. Nowak brings 13 years of experience in education to our district, serving as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal. Mrs. Nowak previously served as the Principal at Hayes Intermediate School in the South Western City School District.

Mrs. Nowak was recognized in 2016 as Ohio’s National Distinguished Principal for Middle Level Education by the Ohio Association of Elementary School Administrators.

Mrs. Nowak actively collaborates and leads daily to increase student achievement, foster stimulating learning environments, and to motivate and inspire students and staff to perform to their full potential.

In addition to her teaching and principal licensures, Mrs. Nowak holds a Master of Arts in School Administration from The Ohio State University, a Master of Education in Curriculum & Teaching and a Bachelor of Science in Education, both from Bowling Green State University. She resides in Hilliard with her husband Brent, and her two sons, Mason and Matthew.

Megan Ballinger joined the New Albany Intermediate School as an Assistant Principal in the summer of 2018.

Mrs. Ballinger brings a range of leadership experience to the Assistant Principal position, having served in administrative roles at the middle and high school levels. She has focused on providing impactful educational opportunities to students under her influence as a teacher and administrator, having experience writing, implementing and monitoring curriculum rooted in inquiry-based learning. As a classroom teacher, Mrs. Ballinger taught English Language Arts and particularly loved sharing Shakespeare with her students. She previously served as the Assistant Principal of Yorktown Middle School in Columbus City Schools. 

Mrs. Ballinger received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Ohio Wesleyan University and her Master of Arts degree in Educational Administration from The Ohio State University. Mrs. Ballinger resides in the New Albany area with her husband, Andrew, and their son, Henry.

“It is an honor and thrill to join the New Albany learning community. I look forward to working alongside New Albany faculty and staff to empower students to reach great educational heights while providing a safe, engaging and joyful environment each day.” - Megan Ballinger

Patrick Garrity joined New Albany Intermediate School as an Assistant Principal in the summer of 2018.

Mr. Garrity brings an extensive background in curriculum and instruction, leadership, and a passion and dedication to individual student education to New Albany-Plain Local Schools. Prior to joining the New Albany Intermediate Team, he served as an Administrative Intern with the Groveport Madison School District, in addition to his role as a third grade teacher there. His work as an administrative intern focused on increasing student achievement, strengthening community collaboration, and enhancing staff culture. Mr. Garrity is excited to continue the success and continuous improvement for all students in the New Albany-Plain Local School District

Mr. Garrity earned both his Master of Science degree in Educational Leadership and his Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Ohio University. He resides in Upper Arlington with his wife, Alyssa, and their children Nora and Joseph.

“Having the chance to work with the students, staff, and community of New Albany is a tremendous opportunity. I am honored to join such an strong and talented team and I look forward to ensuring that every child in our school district has the best possible educational experience.” - Patrick Garrity