Principal's Message

Greetings Tumwater Community,

I am honored and privileged to serve as the Principal of Tumwater Middle School for the 2023/24 school year!

Prior to joining Tumwater this school year, I have worked in various teaching and leadership capacities at schools in the Beaverton School District and at international schools in Venezuela, Estonia, and the Czech Republic.

First and foremost, Tumwater is a school where all students should feel that they are cared for and belong. Our experienced teaching staff provides a nurturing, student-centered environment. Through this lens, our students should feel inspired by their learning, curious to explore further, and empowered to take ownership of their own learning.

Tumwater is an International Baccalaureate (IB) candidate school, with the goal of becoming authorized to offer the Middle Years Programme (MYP) during the 23/24 school year. The MYP offers a rigorous curricular framework with a focus on developing internationally minded citizens. This program allows us to more fully realize our school’s mission: TMS students acquire the knowledge and skills that empower them to change the world.

Success for our students involves a working relationship between the school and our student’s parents, guardians, and caregivers. This partnership can be leveraged through a variety of ways:

• Ensuring regular attendance for your child.

• Asking your child about their school day, what they are learning, and where you can support them.

• Communicating with your child’s teacher if questions arise.

• Tracking assignments, feedback, grades and assignments through our school’s learning management platforms.

• Volunteering at school and/or participating in Tumwater’s Parent Teacher Organization.

I am extremely excited about the year ahead and I look forward to meeting you all very soon.

In partnership,

Matt Smith

Tumwater Middle School Principal