Principal's Message
Dear Warrior families and community members,
As we begin the 2025 school year, I would like to take a moment to share how thrilled I am to be the principal of SE Gross Middle School. The Warrior pride that defines our school makes it a great place to learn, develop friendships, and grow. I am eager to work alongside our students, teachers, leadership team, and families to ensure that this year will be another great year to be a warrior.
Our priority for this school year is essential to middle school success: a deep sense of belonging for every student. We know that when students feel connected, supported, and seen, they are more likely to thrive. To that end, we will be focusing on three key areas:
- Student Engagement: Whether it’s joining a club, playing a sport, or participating in a service project, we want every student to find a place where they feel they belong and can shine. We believe our students have powerful ideas and perspectives. This year, we’ll create more opportunities for them to get involved and share their input, and help shape their school experience.
- High Attendance Rates: Showing up matters. When students are present, they build relationships, engage in learning, and stay connected. We’ll work hard to ensure students feel excited to come to school each day.
- Additional Layers of Support: We are fortunate to have been able to create three new, student-facing positions this year: A math interventionist, a fourth resource teacher, and a dean of students. In addition to these new, supportive positions, students will also attend homeroom on a weekly basis. In homerooms, students will engage in activities that build community, teach them how to navigate changing social dynamics, and expand their executive functioning skills (time management, prioritization, impulse control, etc.).
We have an outstanding teaching team here at SEG. I have seen firsthand their dedication, talent, and heart. They are committed to creating safe, engaging, and rigorous classrooms where students can grow academically and personally. This year, we also have two new leaders in our building: Dave Parolin and Megan Mattucci. Dave’s deep understanding of instruction and experience driving the student culture at his previous school make him an incredible addition to our team. Megan has served students and families of District 95 for seven years as a STEAM teacher and coach. Her formal shift into leadership has already brought about exciting changes and initiatives.
Finally, I believe that the strongest schools are built through true partnership with families and the community. I look forward to listening, learning, and collaborating with you to support each student’s journey. My door is open. I welcome your ideas, questions, and insights as we begin this school year together.
If you haven’t done so already, I encourage you to sign up and get involved with our incomparable Parent Teacher Organization (PTO). This partnership is essential for our continued success. You can access their website at http://www.segrosspto.org/.
Thank you for everything you will do this year to support the Warrior Nation!
In service,
Lauren Teune Colberg
