Jefferson City School District names new principal at Thomas Jefferson Middle School

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

The Jefferson City School District has hired Emily Vallandingham as the principal of Thomas Jefferson Middle School.

“Middle school administrators, teachers, and staff have the meaningful responsibility of supporting their students as they enter a transitional phase in their lives. As the parent of an incoming sixth-grader at TJMS, I know just how important it is to set high expectations for students this age,” said Vallandingham in a release. “I’m invested in making TJMS the best school it can be and giving students the support they need as they go through this important stage in life. I’m incredibly excited to become a champion for the students, staff, and families of TJMS.”

Vallandingham is currently the associate principal of curriculum and instruction at Capital City High School, a role she has served in since 2019.

“She knows that supporting our teachers and staff members ultimately leads to academic success for our students. Emily has a proven track record of success at JC Schools and we cannot wait to see her continue her journey at Thomas Jefferson Middle School,” said JC Schools assistant superintendent of secondary education Gary Verslues in a release.

Vallandingham will succeed Shawn Kelsch, who will be the principal of Jefferson City Academic Center for the 2022-2023 school year.