St. Anthony–New Brighton Schools (SANB) has named current dean Kristine Schwintek as Interim Principal of St. Anthony Middle School (SAMS). Schwintek steps into the role following the announcement that current principal, Amy Kujawski, will be leaving SAMS at the end of June for a principalship in another district.

“I’m incredibly excited for this opportunity and honored to serve in this way,” Schwintek said of her appointment.

She brings more than 14 years of experience in education, including nine years at SAMS. She taught 8th-grade science for seven years before serving the past two years as dean. Before joining SANB, she was a middle school science teacher and teacher leader in Burnsville-Eagan-Savage School District 191.

Throughout her time at SAMS, Schwintek has taken on a variety of leadership roles, including serving as a grade-level leader and facilitating professional development for staff. She is known as a collaborative leader who builds trust, listens well, and works alongside colleagues to support both students and staff.

Schwintek also brings a strong personal connection to the community as a SANB resident, with the oldest two of her three children attending Wilshire Park Elementary.

Her passion for SAMS — and for middle school students — was clear as she reflected on stepping into the role.

“Back in college, I learned that middle school students are my people,” Schwintek said. “I have such a deep love for our students and their families, and a passion for seeing kids grow, be reflective, and become good people.”

She also emphasized the unique culture at SAMS.

“Our staff truly understands what it means to work with middle school students, including the messiness, the silliness, and the fun,” she said. “We lean on each other when things are challenging, and we’re quick to find humor and joy in our work.”

As she steps into her new role for the 2026–27 school year, Schwintek said consistency and relationships will remain a priority.

“I want our students to know I’m here for them, to support them and care for them as they grow and learn,” she said. “Middle school is such a unique time. Students are ready to go deeper, but they still have a natural curiosity about the world around them.”

Superintendent Renee Corneille said Schwintek stood out for both her experience and her deep understanding of the SAMS community.

“Kristine is not only prepared and capable of leading, she understands what makes SAMS special — its culture, relationships, and expectations,” Corneille said. “We trust her to lead with both her heart and her mind. She was the natural choice for interim principal.”

One of Schwintek’s first priorities in her new role will be helping to lead the process of identifying an interim dean of students for the upcoming year. She said her focus will remain on supporting staff, maintaining continuity, and continuing the strong work already underway at SAMS.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to keep the forward momentum going at a school I love,” she said.