Greetings Thirkell Students, Staff, Parents, and Community Partners,

I am excited to introduce myself as the new principal of Thirkell Elementary-Middle School. It is truly an honor to serve a school community with great students, staff, parents, and partners.

My journey began with a desire to make a positive impact on society. In January 2004, I obtained my first substitute assignment with Detroit Public Schools. The experiences in the classroom were amazing and after a few months, I made a life-changing decision to become an educator. I was honored to be a career and technical education teacher. I loved helping students prepare for college and careers and ensuring they had those life skills that would allow them to be successful productive citizens. I also enjoyed collaborating with my colleagues, parents, and community partners to achieve district and school goals. While in the classroom, I began to develop my capacity for leadership. I was fortunate to become an Assistant Principal and a Middle School Principal in Detroit Metropolitan area school districts. This work involved raising student achievement, creating a positive culture and climate, and building strong collaborations with key stakeholders for student success.

I am extremely happy to return home to DPSCD. My vision as Principal is to ensure that each child receives a high-quality education and develops socially and emotionally. I am a believer in building positive relationships and being a great communicator. I look forward to collaborating with staff, parents, and community partners. I want our families and partners to feel welcomed and encouraged to be a part of each student’s learning experience. I love the saying, “it takes a village.” I am confident that the children of Thirkell will experience the love of a village and rise.

I am excited about seeing all the children and meeting each of you. Thirkell will be hosting their Back-to-School Open House on Friday, August 9th from 10-1 pm. Please feel free to contact me at 313-899-7401 or email me at felicia.colemanjones@detroitk12.org. This is going to be an amazing school year.

In Excellence,

Felicia Coleman-Jones