Principal: Patrice Peoples

Email: peoplesp@usd290.org

Assistant Principal: Brandie Irby

Email: irbyb@usd290.org

PH: 785-229-8030

Fax: 785-229-8039

I am delighted to be the Principal at Ottawa Middle School. The 2024-2025 school year is my 11th year at OMS and 27th year in education. Throughout my tenure at OMS, I have worked in the capacity of teacher, librarian, instructional coach, and Assistant Principal/Activities Director. My experiences at OMS have helped me develop positive relationships and community connections; these connections will create a positive learning environment for all students.

These last 10 years at OMS, combined with several years of elementary teaching experience, have reinforced my beliefs that life long learning is an important skill for students to develop. As an administrator, I hope to help cultivate an environment where academic achievement and personal growth is promoted and expected.

I am thrilled to be given the opportunity to take on the role of Assistant Principal/ Activities Director at Ottawa Middle School, which will mark the beginning of my ninth year in education. My journey in education started as a paraprofessional, and it was there that I discovered my true passion for teaching. I have taught grades preschool through fifth at Sunflower and Garfield Elementary Schools in Ottawa.

I am eager to apply my skills and abilities in a challenging, growth-oriented position at the secondary level while continuing to build my leadership foundation. My primary focus will be establishing and maintaining a school culture and educational program that supports student learning and socialization and fosters their personal growth. I am deeply committed to promoting staff professional growth and development and fostering a spirit of teamwork and cooperation. I will collaborate closely with parents, staff members, and students to ensure each student is focused, encouraged, and understood, providing the necessary support to develop life-long skills.

I am excited to join OMS and bring a positive outlook to the 2024-2025 school year—Go Whirlwinds!