Welcome to Jordan Elementary School! I am very excited about starting another school year as the JES K-4 Principal. I have been in education for over twenty-eight years, sixteen years as a classroom teacher, and the past twelve years in administration. I am honored to be a part of such an outstanding staff committed to partnering with parents/guardians, extended families, and the surrounding community in educating our students.

The mission of Jordan Public Schools is to, "Inspire a caring community to ignite learning, innovation, and success for all." JES focuses on the academic and social-emotional development of students by incorporating a PBIS (Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports) model where safety, respect and responsibility are integrated into all areas of the school. We celebrate and acknowledge students demonstrating Jordan PRIDE and continuously look for ways to support students when challenges arise. We also recognize the importance of teaching social-emotional skills and strategies to students as they learn how to manage their emotions and relate to a diverse population of people and various situations in and outside of school.  Culturally Responsive Pedagogy and Restorative Practices are researched-based practices used in all areas of our school and district. The foundation of Culturally Responsive Pedagogy is creating equitable classrooms. Being aware of diversity [culture, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, socio-economic status] in a classroom creates a learning environment that promotes success for all students by recognizing individual strengths, acknowledging positive and negative behaviors, and connecting students and staff to a positive school culture. Mindfulness is practiced in each classroom, and is communicated with families in order to support everyone in the school community in addressing challenging or unexpected events in our lives.  We value building relationships with students and believe when students feel cared for and nurtured, high levels of learning occur.

Our highly qualified staff ensures the overall well-being of your child and will create an environment conducive to all learning styles and abilities. We incorporate a rigorous curriculum aligned with Minnesota state standards to meet individual needs. Academic programming consists of our MTSS (Multi-Tiered Systems of Support) in Reading, Math and behavior, along with after-school programs targeting students needing additional support. Staff members collaborate in professional learning communities to analyze student data on a regular basis and share best practices in order to differentiate instruction to meet the unique needs of students. Technology is integrated daily into the curriculum, where Smart Boards, iPads, Chromebooks, and the Internet are used to engage students and provide them with a 21st Century learning experience.

The staff at Jordan Elementary School invites you to call and schedule a visit to talk more about the amazing opportunities in our school and district. Please feel free to call 952-492-2336, or email me at mbarnett@isd717.org, if you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment. We look forward to an outstanding school year!

Respectfully,

Melissa Barnett
Jordan Elementary School Principal