Principal’s Message for the 2026–2027 School Year to James Monroe Community

Dear James Monroe Middle School Families,

It is with great excitement and gratitude that I welcome you to the 2026–2027 school year at James Monroe Middle School!

I would like to begin by sincerely thanking our parents, students, teachers, and staff for your unwavering dedication, commitment, and support of our school community. Your partnership has been instrumental in the progress we have made together, and I look forward to building on that success this year.

As I begin my second year as your principal, I reflect with pride on all we accomplished during my first year of leadership. Last year, we focused on building relationships, learning from one another, and laying a strong foundation for success. This year, we are ready to build upon that foundation and take our work to the next level.

At James Monroe Middle School, we remain committed to educating the whole child. Our mission is to ensure that every student feels safe, valued, supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their fullest potential; academically, socially, and emotionally.

Our Focus for 2026–2027

This year, our work will center on creating consistent, engaging, and supportive learning environments where every student can thrive.

Our priorities include:

● Strengthening schoolwide routines and procedures to establish clear, consistent expectations across every classroom.
● Increasing authentic student engagement by providing meaningful, standards-based learning experiences every day.
● Preparing students to be classroom-ready by teaching and reinforcing the academic, behavioral, and social skills necessary for success, resulting in increased instructional time and fewer classroom disruptions.
● Continuing our intentional support of our Yazzie/Martinez and African American student groups by providing equitable opportunities and targeted supports that lead to positive outcomes for every learner.
● Aligning all instructional decisions with our 90-Day Plan and using data-driven practices to advance APS Goal 2 and Goal 4 while improving student achievement and overall school performance.

What Students Can Expect

● Consistent routines and procedures that help students feel safe, organized, and ready to learn.
● Engaging, standards-based instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics.
● Frequent opportunities for students to think critically, collaborate with peers, participate actively, and demonstrate their learning.
● Ongoing checks for understanding so teachers can adjust instruction and provide timely intervention when students need additional support.

When students know what to expect, remain actively engaged in learning, and receive support when needed, they are more likely to experience academic success, demonstrate positive behavior, and develop confidence as learners. These efforts will help us increase student achievement while reducing classroom disruptions and discipline referrals.

The Importance of Our Partnership

Student success is only possible when schools and families work together. I encourage every parent and guardian to remain actively involved in your child's education by:

● Maintaining open communication with teachers and school staff.
● Supporting learning and establishing routines at home.
● Encouraging regular attendance and punctuality.
● Participating in school events, conferences, and family engagement opportunities.

Your partnership is one of the greatest factors in your child's success, and we deeply appreciate your continued support.

Together, we will continue to build a school where every student is known, valued, challenged, and empowered to succeed.

Thank you for your trust, partnership, and commitment to James Monroe Middle School. It is an honor to serve as your principal, and I look forward to a year filled with growth, achievement, and excellence.

Let's make the 2026–2027 school year our best one yet!

Olivia Oyinatumba
Principal James Monroe Middle School