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Administrator’s Corner by Tyler Johnson

As the principal of Southwest Middle School, I want to share a few thoughts that have been on my heart — and likely on yours as well. Our schools and community are deeply connected. One cannot thrive without the other. A strong community builds strong schools, and strong schools uplift the entire community. But this strength doesn’t happen overnight. It takes intentional work, honest conversations and a shared commitment to grow together.

We have many things to be proud of. We see students showing up each day ready to learn, families doing their best to stay engaged and staff going above and beyond to support every child. But we also know there is work to do. Whether it’s improving communication, strengthening family involvement or providing more support for students in and out of the classroom, we have opportunities to grow — and we need everyone’s help to do it.

A strong school needs a foundation of trust, respect and collaboration. This starts with recognizing the essential role families and community members play in a child’s education. We need to create more spaces where your voices are heard, where your ideas are welcomed and where partnerships can form naturally. We don’t just want you to be involved — we want you to feel like you belong.

At the same time, we must acknowledge the incredible work our teachers and staff are doing each and every day. While the school day may officially end in the afternoon, many of our educators continue their work well into the evening — preparing lessons, grading assignments, calling families and finding ways to support students beyond academics. Most of this work happens far beyond their contracted hours, and they do it because they care deeply about your children and this community.

However, our educators can’t carry this responsibility alone. The work of educating and nurturing young people is a shared responsibility. We need our entire community — families, businesses, local leaders and organizations — to stand alongside us. Whether it’s volunteering time, sharing resources, attending school events or simply asking,

“How can I help?” — every effort counts.

Let’s also be honest: Building a strong school-community partnership means facing challenges head-on. It means being open to feedback, willing to change and patient with the process. There is no quick fix — but there is real power in consistent effort, mutual respect and shared goals.

I believe in what we can build together. I believe that when we unite around a common vision — when we see our school as not just a place for children, but as a cornerstone of the community — we can create something truly powerful. Our kids are watching. Let’s show them what it means to come together, to work hard and to lift each other up.

With hope and determination,

Tyler Johnson

principal

Southwest Middle School