Meet the Administrators

The Faculty and Staff would like to welcome you to our school. We are here to provide quality education in a safe and secure environment! Our principal, assistant principals, office staff, counselors, teachers, and support staff are ready to work with you as partners in your child's education. Contact WES Staff anytime if you have questions, comments, or concerns.

Principal's Message

Watkins Families

Welcome Back! Whether you are a returning student or new to Watkins, it is my pleasure to welcome you for the 2025-2026 school year. Our school theme this year is, Game On-Level Up Learning. One Goal! Every Panther!

Our goal this school year is to achieve that A! I know that with the hard work and determination our students will put forth, we will reach that goal. Parents can help by ensuring your child is at school each day, on time, in uniform and ready to learn. Also, please help your child complete their homework nightly and maintain open communication with your their teacher.

Our student’s day will consist of lessons in ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies and Social Emotional Learning. Teacher’s lessons are built around the Florida BEST Standards. Our lessons begin right at 8:10a.m; being on time is a must. Additionally, our students will participate in Art or PE classes that rotate every two weeks.

I am honored to continue serving as the Principal of Watkins Elementary School. Many of you know that I have worked in this community for over 25 years, and I am privileged to be part of a team where parents, teachers, and students strive for excellence. This school year, we will work diligently to increase the academic success of our students. Now more than ever, the partnership between home and school is crucial. We hope to build strong partnerships with our families to guide our students to success. I encourage you to keep the lines of communication open.

Once again, welcome to the 2025-2026 school year. Together, we will Level Up to REACH our goal of an A! Game On!

Educationally Yours,

Lori A. Mendez
Principal

Administrator

Assistant Principal - Ricardo Ricketts

Assistant Principal - Ricardo Ricketts

Greetings, Watkins families,

Welcome to the 2025- 2026 school year. It is my honor and privilege to serve as your Assistant Principal. I am proud to work under the leadership of our dedicated principal. We open this school year with renewed enthusiasm for greatness.

Our goal of an "A" is within reach, and together we will achieve that goal. At Watkins, we are committed to creating a safe learning environment for all our scholars. At Watkins, our Scholars ROAR with Respect, Own their choices, A positive attitude, and responsibility. Communication is vital between all stakeholders as we grow together. Parents, your support, involvement, and engagement in your child's education will make a world of difference. Together, we will inspire our students to reach their full potential. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us at (754) 323-7800.

It's going to be a phenomenal year. Go Panthers. Let's launch into Learning!

Thank you!

Ricardo Ricketts

Assistant Principal