Incoming island principal to hold meet, greet
Island families and the community will have a chance to meet the new head of The Sanibel School.
A Community Meet & Greet with incoming Principal Dr. Tom Millins will take place on July 24 from 4 to 6 p.m. at the island school. Open to all, he will outline his vision for the K-8 school and more.
“I think it’s really important, right from the start, that the community knows my vision for the school is to bring the community and the school together,” Millins said, explaining that working in cooperation together is going to be the best way to meet the needs of the students.
“We’re here to work with the community to ensure the continued success of The Sanibel School,” he added.
Millins emphasized that the event is for the whole community, not just school families.
“The goal is to make sure that the community knows that the new principal that is joining is open to working with our community members and leaders to make sure we can continue the wonderful things that have happened in the past,” he said. “To ensure the continuance of that community relationship.”
The theme for the meet and greet is “Charting a Course for Success.”
At 5 p.m., Millins will share information about himself and his previous experience, plus his vision.
He holds more than 27 years of experience with the School District of Lee County. An experienced educator and administrator, Millins has served in leadership roles at Edgewood Academy in Fort Myers, the North Fort Myers Academy for the Arts and Pine Island Elementary School on Bokeelia.
Known for a student-centered approach and community-focused leadership, he earned praise at Pine Island Elementary for helping guide the school and community through the aftermath of Hurricane Ian.
In addition, Millins has served on multiple district committees, including the Code of Conduct, District Advisory Council and Safety Committees. He has also worked as an internship coordinator at Nova Southeastern University, assisting master’s degree students finish educational leadership requirements.
Asked about his interest in the Sanibel school, Millins pointed to his experience.
“I felt that I was a great fit for the school,” he said, noting that he has been at K-8, elementary, middle, arts, and barrier island schools. “And being able to bring all of those experiences to this school.”
When school starts, Millins will introduce a school-wide theme of “Charting Our Course: Anchored in Family. Guided by Knowledge. Sailing Together.” The nautical theme is designed to map out that journey, ensuring that every student feels secure, valued and challenged to reach their highest potential.
“The school culture will be guided by the four points of our compass,” he said.
Millins explained that those will entail:
– North — Academics (Our Lighthouse): We are committed to high standards and academic excellence. Like the Sanibel Lighthouse, knowledge will be the constant beacon that guides our students forward and illuminates their potential.
– South — Safety (Our Anchor): Before a student can learn, they must feel secure. We pride ourselves on being a “safe harbor” where every child is physically protected, emotionally supported and deeply cared for.
– East — Community (Our Crew): A ship cannot sail smoothly without its crew. We will emphasize collaboration, mutual respect and leadership, teaching our students that we are always stronger when we work together.
– West — Family (Our Home Port): You are your child’s first and most important teacher. Our school is anchored by the partnership we share with you. We welcome your involvement, your passion and your presence in our “home port” all year long.
He will expand on each of those four areas at the event.
Attendees will also have a chance to learn more about The Sanibel School Fund and PTA.
They will get to hear about volunteer opportunities and how to get involved.
“Our community members and our volunteers are crucial for our success,” Millins said.
Light refreshments and snacks will be served.
All members of the community are welcome to attend.
“I think the school can be the central part of the Sanibel Island community, and it’s crucial for me to open the doors to the school,” he said. “To ensure that we’re doing everything we can to provide opportunities for our students and families — and the community is part of the multifaceted approach to accomplishing that.”
For more information, contact 239-472-1617 or ThomasCM@LeeSchools.net.
The Sanibel School is at 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel.
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IF YOU GO
What
Community Meet & Greet
Who
Principal Dr. Tom Millins
When
July 24 from 4 to 6 p.m.
Where
The Sanibel School, 3840 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel
Details
Free and open to public
To reach TIFFANY REPECKI / trepecki@breezenewspapers.com, please email