SEQUIM — Sequim Middle School Principal Brian Jones has been selected as the Olympic Region Principal of the Year for 2011-2012 by the Association of Washington Middle Level Principals.
Jones is in his seventh year at Sequim Middle School.
“He is certainly deserving of the recognition, as he is an untiring advocate for the success of all students,” said Sequim Superintendent Bill Bentley.
Jones is now eligible for the 2012 Association of Washington Middle Level Principals Middle Level Principal of the Year award.
This award will be announced in early March.
Assistant Principal Scott Harker at Sequim Middle School submitted a letter nominating Jones in early November.
In his letter, Harker said that “Brian has made an incredible difference in improving the academics, culture and climate for all those who enter the home of the Timberwolves.
“Every decision Brian makes is based on the best interest of the students.”
Jones’ actions
Harker cited some of Jones’ actions at the middle school that have paid off, such as utilizing teacher teaming and implementing an advisory program that works to help students in their transition to high school.
“Brian personally meets with nearly 100 students each week to monitor their academic progress,” Harker said.
“To assist those students, he started an after-school homework club which has grown into a district-wide program that serves more than 140 middle school students every Tuesday and Thursday afternoon.”
In addition to his principal duties at Sequim Middle School, Jones also serves on the executive board of the Washington Association of Middle Level Educators.
The board meets monthly to discuss middle school issues and provides advocacy with local legislators.
“It’s nice to be recognized, and certainly we should all be recognized for our perseverance and hard work in working with middle-level students,” Jones said.
“I truly believe the work we do with middle-level education can ultimately improve high school graduation rates.”
Jones; his wife, Sandra; and daughter Gabriela moved to Sequim in 2005 from Omak, where he was principal of Omak Middle School.
He has 28 years of experience in education.
