Inman Middle School Principal Stepping Down

Inman Middle School Principal Paula Herrema has informed parents, students, and employees that do to unspecified health reasons, her last day at the school will be Friday, Jan. 31, 2014.

In a letter sent to stakeholders on Thursday, Herrema wrote that it was "a very difficult decision for me but one most necessary in order to pursue improved health." She explains that she hopes to continue working for APS in an administrative capacity after taking a break.

According to the Inman Middle website, "Herrema has been in education for over 20 years. Her work has included teaching fourth and fifth grade, Instructional Specialist, elementary school principal, School Improvement Specialist, and middle school assistant principal. She has worked at Mary Lin, Centennial, Morningside and Inman within the Atlanta school district. Her elementary principal experience was with City Schools of Decatur."

She will be replaced by Thomas Kenner, a veteran principal who will serve in the interim through the remainder of the school year. In a letter, Inman PTA President Janet Kinard wrote, "We are saddened by this news both for our community, who will be losing a very valuable leader, and for Ms. Herrema, who we only wish the best. Our thoughts are with Paula that she return to health quickly!"

Both letters are included here. Share your thoughts on Herrema's announcement in the comment section below.

January 23, 2014

Dear Inman Families,

It is with heartfelt sadness that I report to you that I am stepping down from the principalship at Inman Middle School for health reasons. This has been a very difficult decision for me but one most necessary in order to pursue improved health. Next Friday, January 31,2014, will be my last official day at Inman. After a short break, I will continue working for APS in an administrative capacity.

I thank each of you for what you have brought to the table to support the success of Inman. I don't have to tell you how strong our administrative team and staff are; who I know this superb team will continue the quality work they have always provided for our students.  

I welcome Mr. Thomas Kenner, a veteran principal, who will serve as interim principal for the remainder of the school year. I will assist Mr. Kenner in every way possible to ensure the smoothest transition for students and staff.

I will always cherish the opportunity I have had to work with your children and serve such an amazing community. I will truly miss being such an integral part of the Inman family and I am most appreciative to still be able to serve within Atlanta Public Schools.

Sincerely,

You all received the very difficult news today that our Principal Paula Herrema will be stepping down at the end of next week for health reasons. We are saddened by this news both for our community, who will be losing a very valuable leader, and for Ms. Herrema, who we only wish the best. Our thoughts are with Paula that she return to health quickly!

The PTA has enjoyed a good working relationship with Ms. Herrema, the administrative staff, and the faculty. We look forward to continuing that tradition with the Interim Principal Mr. Kenner, a seasoned and respected administrator, during the transition and for the remainder of the year. We pledge to provide the support needed to ensure a smooth change and that we will provide as much information as possible to the community. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

The PTA’s Executive Team will be meeting tomorrow and will be able to provide more information about the transition in our weekly Enews that is distributed on Sunday. Please watch for more over the next several weeks about the transition, including an opportunity to meet the Interim Principal and the progress in identifying a permanent new Principal.

Personally, my heart is heavy with the news about Ms. Herrema. She has been a joy to work with – I respect and admire her hard work and dedication and know how difficult this decision was for her. Thank you, Ms. Herrema, for all you do! Please rally around Ms. Herrema and the school as we work together to welcome a new face and make the remainder of this year wonderful!

Thanks,
Janet Kinard
2013-14 PTA President