 Name & Current Role
· Dr. Vanessa Watkins · Principal · Responsible for ensuring that teaching and learning occur at high levels throughout the school and that parents are provided with opportunities to engage
Experience in Education · 20+ · I have served as a principal at all three levels and taught at the elementary and middle school levels · Some of my greatest achievements as a principal have been working with staff, parents, and students to increase the academic achievement of all student groups and helping to create a positive school environment in which parents, students, and staff feel heard and supported. Additionally, it has been my joy and passion to work with parents and staff members to develop academic and recognition programs that help all students to feel seen and celebrated.
Educational Background · Bachelor of science in Accounting and Business Administration, MBA, Master of Arts in Teaching, Ed.D in Educational Leadership. Both latter degrees were earned from the University of Pittsburgh · Certification in Educational Leadership K-12, Middle grades- English, math, and SS
Why I Do This Work · I enjoy this work because our jobs as educators help to save students’ lives. Our work as educators is essential to providing opportunities to help students hope, dream, and choose the lives they would like and deserve to live. · Middle school students have so much flavor and personality. They are trying to figure out their interests, friends, and themselves and still want and need to be guided by the adults in their lives.
Personal Touch · My hobbies are baking, reading and spending time with my family · Favorite quote- “We can, whenever and wherever we choose, successfully teach all children whose schooling is of interest to us. We already know more than we need to know in order to do that. Whether or not we do it must finally depend on how we feel about the fact we haven’t so far.” Ron Edmonds |
 Name & Current Role · Tida Bruce-Banfield · Assistant Principal · 7th Grade Administrator, Scheduler/ELL/Gifted
Experience in Education · 22 years in Education · Past roles - Elementary teacher, middle school math educator, special education teacher, gifted instructor, and instructional leader. · Notable accomplishment or focus area – Built gifted programs in Title I schools through strategic talent development initiatives. Curriculum and instruction, innovative learning models, technology integration, and STEAM education.
Educational Background · B.S. in Healthcare Administration (St. John’s), an M.S. in Teaching (Mercer), and two Ed.S. degrees in Instructional Technology and Educational Leadership (Berry). Currently pursuing doctorate, graduating in December. · Relevant certifications – Elementary Education, Special Education, ESOL, Gifted, Science, Educational Leadershi
Why I Do This Work · I believe ALL children deserve an academically challenging and engaging education. I do this work because I’m passionate about equity, access, and helping students see and reach their full potential. · Why you love working with middle schoolers - Middle schoolers inspire me with their energy, resilience, and desire to be seen and heard.
Personal Touch · I love reading and cheering for my children at dance and soccer. · I took the stairs—every step built with purpose, passion, an
|  Name & Current Role
◦ Dr. Joy Jones ◦ 6th Grade Assistant Principal ◦ Science, 6th Social Studies
Experience in Education ◦ 20 Years in education ◦ 7th Grade Science Teacher, Academic Coach ◦ Evidenced-based Instructional Practices, Restorative Practices
Educational Background ◦ Doctor of Education in Teacher Leadership, Education Specialist in Teaching & Learning, Master of Arts in Teaching, Bachelor of Science in Biology ◦ Educational Leadership, Teacher Leadership, Middle Grades Science, Coaching Endorsement, Reading Endorsement, ESOL Endorsement
Why I Do This Work ◦ My commitment to educational advocacy is at the heart of my work. I am an advocate for students, staff, and families and truly believe in the power of collaboration to enhance a community. ◦ I love working with middle schoolers because their enthusiasm, curiosity, and growth make each day dynamic, meaningful, and full of possibility.
Personal Touch ◦ I absolutely love singing and dancing! ◦ I live by the motto, “It takes a village!” | James Strong - Assistant Principal Na me & Current Role James C Strong ◦ Assistant Principal ◦ Duties and Responsibilities · 8th Grade Administrator · Math Evaluator · BEACON and PSAT 8/9 Testing Coordinator · Local School Safety Coordinator · Local School Transportation Coordinator
Experience in Education ◦ 22 Years In Education ◦ Math Teacher, Assist Principal, Director of Sa fety, Discipline and Athletes ◦ Proactive Safety Educational Practices for Parents and Communities
Educational Background · Morehouse College o Bachelors of Science, Mathematics · University of West Georgia o Masters in Educational Leadership · Lincoln Memorial University o Educational Specialist Curriculum and Instruction
Why I Do This Work Education is a powerful tool that can never be taken away and opens countless doors of opportunity. My purpose is to equip students with the best chance for success in both their lives and our community. Middle school is a pivotal time in students' lives, where they need proper guidance to help them grow and transition from childhood to adolescence.
Personal Touch ◦ I enjoy watching and playing sports. ◦ “Stop wasting time with trivial matters that don’t add value to your life or push you one step closer to your goals.” — Edith Henderso | Latisha Weaver - Student Services Administrator Name & Current Role
· LaTisha Weaver · Support and Services Administrator · Special Education
Experience in Education · 17 Years in Education · ·I previously taught high school, 9th and 11th Grade Literature, Middle School Special Education, Program for Exceptional Children Specialist, Program Support Specialist
Educational Background · Masters of Education, English Secondary Education · Educational Leadership Certificate
Why I Do This Work · I work in special education because I believe every student deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential, no matter their challenges. Supporting and advocating for students with diverse needs brings purpose and meaning to my work every day. · I enjoy working with middle school students because they’re full of curiosity, growth, and personality, making every day both meaningful and unpredictable.
Personal Touch · My hobbies include spending time with family and friends, reading, and relaxing while listening to music. · Fun fact about me is that I love going to outdoor festivals. |
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