Wyoming — After nine years as Wyoming Junior High School principal, Jon Blackburn has changed grade levels to become the new principal at Wyoming Intermediate School, the district’s fifth- and sixth-grade building.
Previous positions in district:
- Teacher at the former Taft Elementary School teacher for five years
- Principal at the former Taft Elementary School for six years
- Principal at the former Newhall Middle School Principal for two years
- Principal at Wyoming Junior High for nine years
On changing grade levels: “I am finding both levels rewarding to work with. Both bring unique experiences. The seventh- through ninth-grade students are more independent and their friendship groups are very important to them. It is amazing to see how students grow from their seventh-grade year to ninth-grade year, physically and mentally.
“Fifth- and sixth-grade students enjoy their opportunities to engage in play. They enjoy going outside for recess and playing with their friends. They are more independent than elementary students but still want affirmation from adults. I am taller than almost all the fifth- and sixth-graders, which is something I embrace.”
What he’s excited about: “I am excited to work with this age group again. I taught fourth grade for Wyoming Public Schools earlier in my career as well as serving as an elementary principal in a K-5 setting. I really have enjoyed working with the older elementary-aged students. I am excited the students are back into our school buildings (following virtual learning), and to watch our students learn and grow as individuals and work with the talented teachers of Wyoming.”
