August 1, 2011


Welcome to San Marcos Middle School!


My name is Melissa Hunt, the Crusaders’ new Principal. I am thrilled and honored to join this educational community, led so well over the last eight years by Brian Randall.  I was fortunate to spend time on campus before the school year ended and am so impressed with the caliber of teachers, students and support staff.  San Marcos Middle School teachers and staff provide an active and supportive environment where teaching, learning and caring for students are the priority.


I am actually not a new face in the San Marcos Unified School District.  I was principal at Woodland Park Middle School from 2001 to 2006.  Prior to that I was a middle and high school teacher and administrator in the Los Angeles County area.  I have spent the last five years as Coordinator of Educational Leadership Services for the San Diego County Office of Education.  Joining the San Marcos Middle School team is really like coming home again. 


Within the broad scope of my responsibilities there are two areas that are especially close to my heart.  First, I am deeply committed to preserving and enhancing the positive school climate that exists at San Marcos Middle.  I believe a school should be a place where students feel welcomed and valued, where they learn to treat one another with respect, and where they grow socially and intellectually.  Second, I am a curriculum and instruction geek.  Content Standards, instructional practices, research articles - I can’t get enough of them! I love learning about how to improve all we do as educators. Our Crusader parents are integral to all of this; we are partners in educating your children and we will work together on their behalf.


I have been fortunate to spend much of my career with middle school students and teachers.  This is a wonderful time in the lives of our young people.  As childhood is passing, middle school students begin to tip toe into adulthood.  Each day seems to be a unique experience. Students’ minds are open and probing; their hearts are easily touched and broken.  As adults, we can do much to help and influence them during these special years.  I can’t wait to greet our Crusader family as we begin a new school year!

 
Sincerely,


Melissa Hunt

Principal

San Marcos Middle School