The 2025-26 school year is a new chapter for E.L. Haynes Middle School, marked by a palpable positive culture shift and new initiatives. At the helm is new principal Alex Baron, who brings with him seven years of experience at Haynes. Mr. Baron, previously the Director of Academic Strategy and the Director of Professional Learning, is joined by a second assistant principal, Monique Watson, alongside Rohey Mbenga, creating a robust leadership team.
Instead of introducing entirely new ideas, the leadership team is focused on strengthening the school’s core values. “Our goal was to get back to that foundational model and define what our motto—Be Kind, Work Hard, Get Smart—means for students, staff, and leaders,” Mr. Baron explained. This approach ensures a unified vision and a clear path forward for the entire school.
Two completely new initiatives are shaping the middle school experience this year: the Morning Student Address and the SmartPass app. The Morning Student Address, held twice a week for each grade level, is a space for school leaders to communicate and model expectations, celebrate student successes, and encourage reflection. It provides “an opportunity to find out what we need to work on and to start our day with shouts for what we are doing well,” according to 8th grader Trinity B. This time also allows for valuable “face time with the principal,” as noted by ELA and Social Studies teacher Mr. Joseph. The program complements the smaller-group connections students still have during Advisory.
The SmartPass app is a technological upgrade from the old paper-based hall pass system. It allows teachers and administrators to manage timed passes, providing a data-driven approach to student movement. Sixth-grade teacher Diana Newton calls the shift “wonderful for students and teachers alike,” as it allows teachers to focus on instruction. The app also encourages student responsibility, as 8th grader Yessenis BM explained, “It encourages us to return to class and not play in the hallway.”
The school is also strengthening existing programs. The math and literacy intervention program W.I.N. (What I Need) has been extended from 25 to 40 minutes daily. This year, every middle school teacher provides instruction in either math or literacy, ensuring all students receive dedicated support. This shift prioritizes direct teacher-led instruction over computer-based learning, which 8th grader Aniya H. confirms, saying, “I understand more learning from my teachers than the computer.”
Furthermore, the school has improved its approach to teacher professional development. Early Release Wednesdays now provide equitable data and planning meetings for all teachers, in addition to whole-staff professional development sessions focused on the school’s core instructional shifts, known as the Magnificent 7. This consistent access to professional learning emphasizes that all classes matter and ensures every teacher is aligned with the school’s vision for student success.
Written by Nicole Clark | Nicole Clark is the 7th grade U.S. History teacher at E.L. Haynes Middle School. This is her fourth year in the Haynes community, and her 20th year in the classroom. When not teaching, Nicole enjoys reading, documentaries, and traveling with her partner.