As he unpacked his boxes this week, Jason Otte couldn’t contain his enthusiasm for recently being chosen to lead Windsor Farm Elementary School.

“I have heard this is a wonderful community,” said Otte, “with a tremendous staff, terrific students, and incredible parental support.”

Otte was recently appointed Acting Principal of WFES by the school system (though the technicality of the “acting” title will be lifted within months). 

Otte comes to Windsor Farm from Jessup Elementary School, where he was assistant principal. He has also served as a behavior specialist at Annapolis Elementary, a Gifted and Talented Resource Teacher at Glendale and Overlook Elementary, and was a fifth grade teacher at Rivera Beach Elementary. 

It was Bodkin Elementary principal Charles Jansky who hired Otte in a recruitment fair in Pennsylvania years ago. 

“That was a day that truly changed my life,” said Otte. He along with his wife Emily packed up and moved to this area, ready to live his dream of an educational career.

He credits Jansky and other educational leaders Sue Myers, Ava Tasker-Mitchell, and Donna Cianfrani for mentoring him as he prepares to lead WFES.

Otte grew up in Wheeling, WV, and attended West Liberty University. He received his Masters at Loyola University in Baltimore.

“I have always wanted to be a principal,” said Otte. “I really enjoy working with kids and I believe in the idea of giving back.” 

Otte lives in Halethorpe with his wife Emily, a marketing coordinator for a civil structural engineering firm, and their 10 month-old son Alexander.

Despite having been at Windsor Farm for only days, Otte said he had already learned of the many traditions at the school and planned to continue the stellar programs, events, and activities that have helped to make WFES the school it has become.

He has scheduled a “Meet the Principal” day for WFES families on Wednesday, Aug. 3, at both 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., to accommodate the schedules of all parents.

He also plans to reach out to parent leaders and volunteers over the summer weeks.

“My style is very collaborative, with staff, students, parents, and the community working together,” said Otte. “I hope everyone sees my energy and enthusiasm and are motivated by that. I am ready to get started.”