Dear Garrison-Jones Family,  

It is with great pleasure and enthusiasm that I introduce myself as your new Principal.  I am truly honored to become a member of a school community which has already given me such a warm welcome!  In just the few weeks that I have been here, it has become abundantly clear that Garrison-Jones is a unique and special place.   

Professionally, I am entering my 19th year in education.  During that time, I have served as a bilingual program teacher, literacy specialist, professional development coordinator, assistant principal, principal and director of teaching and learning.  I am passionate on leading through a lens of equity that puts students at the center of all our decisions as a school community.  I hold a Masters in Educational Leadership, Masters in Literacy Education, an endorsement in English as a Second Language and pride myself in being a lifelong learner.   

I am honored to have been selected to lead this impressive school community.  Mrs. Karen Buckles has done an amazing job of laying the foundation and bringing the vision of Garrison-Jones to life.  Along with the staff, students, and community partnerships, I will work hard to continue the legacy of success of the school by building strong relationships, ensuring all students have equal opportunity and access to engaging and rigorous learning, strive for academic excellence, and have fun along the way.   

I look forward to working together with you to ensure we have a successful year at Garrison-Jones Elementary School.  Please know my door is always open.  I can be reached by email at tapiaj@pcsb.org or by phone at (727) 469-5716.   

Your fellow Pioneer,  

Jen Tapia
Principal