Ms. Kolk – Principal
Ewa Kolk is very excited to serve as the Principal at Picolata Crossing Elementary School this upcoming year.
Originally from Connecticut, Ms. Kolk has made St. Augustine her home since 2002. She is a graduate from Flagler College with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a minor in Business Administration with endorsements in ESOL and Reading. She completed her internship at Crookshank Elementary School and continued to serve over a 10 year period as a Math Coach, Classroom Teacher and Instructional Literacy Coach. In 2016, Ms. Kolk completed her Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from the University of North Florida and became Assistant Principal at Picolata Crossing Elementary for the 2017-2018 inaugural school year. She is also a proud mother of her daughter, Lily, who keeps her busy when she is not at school.
“With a full heart, I am incredibly honored to step into the role of principal at a school that has meant so much to me. After 19 years in education, I step into this new role with humility and a deep sense of responsibility. I care deeply about this school and our Puma family, and I am committed to continuing to grow and strengthen the foundation that has been built. As we embark on this next chapter together, please know that I carry with me a sincere desire to build upon all that we have accomplished without ever losing sight of what makes Picolata Crossing feel like home.”
Ms. Higgins – Assistant Principal
Mrs. Higgins holds a Master’s of Education degree from The American College of Education in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor’s of Public Relations degree from the University of South Carolina. Mrs. Higgins holds professional educator certifications in Educational Leadership (K-12) and Elementary Education (K-6). Additionally, she holds endorsements in ESOL, Reading, and Exceptional Student Education.
After working for many years in the private sector, Mrs. Higgins made the decision to become a teacher and serve the parents and students of Jacksonville, Florida. She taught 1st and 3rd grades in Duval County Public Schools and was an Instructional Reading Coach. Mrs. Higgins’ family ventured to Utah where she served the Salt Lake City School District community as an Assistant Principal for three years.
Mrs. Higgins is passionate about creating engaging learning environments and holding students to high expectations. She is driven by ensuring every student feels welcomed, loved, and nurtured. Mrs. Higgins is the proud wife of Sean, and the mother of Hudson and Madison. When she is not serving the Picolata Crossing community, you’ll likely find her on the soccer field supporting her son or coaching her daughter’s middle school cheer squad.
Ms. Tumbelty – LEA Assistant Principal
Ms. Allison Tumbelty earned her bachelor’s degree in Special Education from the University of North Florida and her master’s degree in Educational Leadership from the University of West Florida. Before moving into school administration, she spent 17 years in the classroom, primarily teaching middle school Exceptional Student Education (ESE). Since joining SJCSD in 2011, she has had the opportunity to serve students and families at several schools across the district. She began her administrative career in 2022 and is excited to continue supporting students, staff, and families as an assistant principal.
Ms. Tumbelty is passionate about helping every child feel welcomed, supported, and capable of success. She believes strong relationships and a positive school culture are key to helping students thrive both academically and personally.
Outside of school, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family. She is the proud mom of children ranging from elementary school through college, including a student-athlete on the women’s soccer team at Columbus State University (Go Cougars!), a nursing student at Florida State University, a son serving in the United States Marine Corps, and younger children who keep her busy at home. She is excited to be part of the Puma family!