Dear Essex High School Students and Families,

Welcome to the 2026–2027 school year! It is with tremendous excitement, gratitude, and humility that I welcome you back to Essex High School. Whether you are returning to our Trojan family or joining us for the first time, we are delighted to have you with us.

As your new principal, I am honored to serve this remarkable school community. I bring 28 years of experience in education, including 15 years as a principal at the elementary, middle, and high school levels. I believe deeply in creating schools where students thrive, families feel welcomed, educators feel valued, and everyone works together to support student success.

Our theme for this year is:

"Nothing Can Stop Us—We Are All the Way Up!"

This theme represents our determination to reach higher, work harder, and move forward together. We believe every student can succeed when provided with high expectations, meaningful support, and opportunities to discover their gifts. When our students, families, faculty, staff, and community work together, nothing can stop us!

This year, we are also "PushinP's" by creating predictable, productive, and positive classrooms throughout Essex High School.

Predictable Classrooms

Students learn best when expectations and routines are clear and consistent. Our classrooms will provide structured environments where students understand what is expected and feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

Productive Classrooms

Every minute matters. Students should arrive on time, prepared, and ready to participate in meaningful academic work. Instruction will begin when the bell rings, and our teachers will provide engaging learning experiences, helpful feedback, and support designed to prepare students for successful, choice-filled lives.

Positive Classrooms

Our students deserve joyful and welcoming spaces where they are greeted warmly, treated with respect, and encouraged to do their best. We expect everyone in our school community to use appropriate language, demonstrate kindness, respect differences, and contribute to a positive learning environment.

To help us remain "All the Way Up," we ask our students to:

• Attend school every day and arrive on time.

• Come to class prepared and ready to learn.

• Follow classroom routines and schoolwide expectations.

• Participate actively and complete all assignments.

• Speak respectfully to classmates, teachers, and staff.

• Take responsibility for their choices and actions.

• Ask for help when they need it.

• Contribute positively to the Trojan family.

Parents and guardians are essential partners in this work. We encourage you to remain involved, communicate regularly with teachers and staff, monitor your student's attendance and academic progress, and celebrate their growth throughout the year. Together, we can create the safe, joyful, rigorous, and supportive school environment our students deserve.

At Essex High School, we will lead with purpose, extend grace, maintain high expectations, and place relationships at the heart of our work. Together, we will keep "PushinP's." Together, we will rise. Together, we are all the way up—and nothing can stop us!

With excitement and appreciation,

Tanya S. Roane, Ph.D.
Principal
Essex High School