Principal’s Message

Dear Wagner Middle School Community,

It is an honor to introduce myself as the new principal of General Louis Wagner Middle School and to join this school community. I hope that this note finds you enjoying the remaining days of summer and that you and your children are looking forward to beginning a wonderful school year together in August. We are very excited to welcome you and your
children back to The Bear’s Den.

I arrive at Wagner as a seasoned educator. In addition to my role as an educator, I am a mother and an advocate for justice. I have spent the whole of my educational career working towards justice for youth, parents, families, and those that society historically and presently attempts to diminish and marginalize.

The 2022-2023 school year will mark my 32nd year in education. I have led academic and joy-centered excellence in many areas, including K-12 schools, alternative education programs, universities, correctional facilities, and community spaces.The middle school principalship allows me to work with teachers daily, while also remaining connected to young students learning and growing in the classroom, ensuring that equity, justice, and self-efficacy are the standard. I firmly believe that every child can excel and that the partnership between home and school builds confidence in students to use their powers to shape their future and the future of our community and our nation.

My conversations with district staff and families over the last few months have afforded me privileged insights into the core beliefs and values present at Wagner. I am committed to exploring new ways to meet the needs of all students, and effectively communicate with parents and community members.The Wagner family believes in the essential nature of the following in our service to scholars and families:

Respect & Responsibility,
Commitment to High Standards & Expectations,
Culturally Relevant Teaching and Learning
Joy in education,
Collaboration & Communication,
An Unwavering Belief in All Students’ Potential, and
Equity

While I have met a few Wagner family members on my community walks, our first official meet and greet opportunity will take place on August 26th, from 10-12 a.m. at our Wagner Day event. Our 6th grade Mt and Greet will also take place at this time. I look forward to meeting even more of our families in person.

To our students, I cannot wait to meet you all! I hope that you are excited for this coming school year and that you are out this summer playing and reading tons of books with your family and friends. It is going to be a fun year learning together. If you are near the school this summer, please stop by and say hello!

FYI: Student schedules (rosters) go live in the student portal on Wednesday, August 17, 2022. Hard copies can also be picked up on the 26th at Wagner Day.

In closing, please know that my door is always open to you. My email is cgrier2@philasd.org.

I look forward to the BEST school year ever!

Sincerely,
Ms. Connie Grier
Principal
General Louis Wagner Middle School