Dear Payne Panthers,

Welcome to Payne Elementary School!

As I begin my second year as your principal, I am thrilled to continue this journey with our incredible community. I am equally excited to welcome our new Panthers—students, families, and staff—who are joining us for the first time. We are so glad you're here, and we look forward to the many ways you will enrich our school.

At Payne, we are committed to fostering a school culture that prioritizes both belonging and academic achievement. We believe that when students and families feel truly seen, valued, and connected, learning thrives. This year, we will continue building strong relationships and nurturing a sense of community where everyone feels they belong and can succeed.

Our work is guided by three school rules: Be Respectful, Be Responsible, and Be Safe.

Be Respectful:
Respect is the foundation of everything we do. We are dedicated to creating a community where every voice is heard and every person is treated with kindness. Embracing diverse perspectives and experiences makes us stronger, and we will continue to foster a culture where mutual respect is at the heart of our school.

Be Responsible:
Responsibility empowers our students to take ownership of their learning and actions. We will support students in setting high expectations for themselves and developing the confidence and skills to meet them. Responsibility also means working together to ensure our school is a place where everyone can thrive.

Be Safe:
Safety, both physical and emotional, is a top priority at Payne. Our staff is committed to providing a nurturing environment where students feel secure, supported, and ready to learn. Together, we will cultivate a space where everyone can grow and take risks in a supportive and safe setting.

As we head into this new school year, I invite all families to be active participants in our school community. Your involvement, feedback, and partnership are essential as we work together to make Payne a place where every child can reach their full potential.

Thank you for your continued support. Let’s make this year one of belonging, achievement, and joy.

Sincerely,

Jeanette Escobar
Principal
Payne Elementary School