The USD 490 Board of Education approved hiring Midgley (Midge) Simmons as the new Grandview Elementary Principal beginning August 1, 2023, during the board meeting on June 12.
Simmons completed a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Kansas State University, a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at Newman University and a Master of Science in Educational Administration and Leadership from Kansas State University. In addition to her elementary (K-9) teaching and building administration (PreK-12) licensure, she has also completed all of the required graduate classes and anticipates adding district level licensure to her credentials this summer.
Beginning her teaching career in Garden City, Simmons taught for ten years – seven years of eighth grade math, science and reading and three years of fifth grade math and science – before accepting her first elementary principal position in Hutchinson. During her nine years there, she worked to improve the school culture and gained experience in implementing and maintaining a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS), Student Intervention Teams (SIT), and a Title I Schoolwide Program.
In 2016, Simmons became the principal of Belle Plaine Elementary, where she has implemented Pathways to Reading and Project Lead the Way. She led staff to transform the school into a trauma-informed culture, implementing Zones of Regulation, CHAMPS, and other social-emotional and bullying prevention training.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to bring my experience, skills, and passion to El Dorado Public Schools!” Simmons said.
Please help us welcome Midge Simmons to the USD 490 family. We look forward to having her as #PartOfThePride!
