At the center of every academic program is a leader who understands instruction and inspiration. This year, Franklin D. Roosevelt High School is proud to welcome Ms. Tamika Swinton, as the new Assistant Principal of Instructional Services, IA. With a clear vision to elevate student achievement and support teachers across departments, Ms. Swinton brings both expertise and enthusiasm to her role!

Could you explain what “Instructional Support Services” means and what your role involves? 

Instructional Support Services (ISS) provides programs aimed at improving the learning journey for all students, particularly those who benefit from extra support to fully engage with the general education curriculum. My goal as an Assistant Principal is to empower ISS teachers and strengthen the department as a whole. 

My responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Conducting regular classroom observations to offer targeted feedback and mentorship to teachers.
• Supporting and encouraging teacher professional development and continuous learning.
• Engaging in data and curriculum review to inform instructional practices.
• Ensuring oversight in the implementation and management of student IEPs (Individual Education Plans).
• Resource allocation and guaranteeing access to essential materials for both students and staff.
• Securing adequate staffing to meet department needs.
• Building strong networks and collaborations with guidance counselors and related service providers (such as social workers, school psychologists, and therapists) to deliver quality student support.
• Ultimately, creating an inclusive, safe, and supportive environment for everyone.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education and ultimately become an assistant principal? 

I’ve always been driven by a natural love for children and a deep commitment to serving others. Education became the perfect path to nurture that, allowing my innate curiosity as a lifelong learner to flourish, sparking creativity, and providing daily opportunities for growth. The sense of purpose I found as an educator was inspiring, and now my goal is to cultivate that inspiration within the staff and students I have the privilege to support.

How does your department help students who are struggling academically or need emotional support? 

As a team, we’re dedicated to knowing each student as an individual. This understanding allows us to collaborate in developing and implementing an educational plan to match their diverse needs. Our support often extends beyond the classroom, connecting students and their families with outside community organizations that offer additional opportunities and resources. This work wouldn’t have been possible without the commitment of our entire ISS staff.

Are there any new initiatives or programs you are excited to introduce this year?

As a new member of the FDR school community, I’m currently immersing myself in the ISS department, building connections, and collaborating closely with our teachers and staff. Through this process of observation and shared brainstorming, the goal is to identify the most impactful areas for growth, all while leveraging the successful practices already in place. I’m optimistic about what we’ll achieve together.

How will you ensure that support services are inclusive and meet the needs of students from diverse backgrounds? 

My approach focuses on providing our ISS teachers with everything they need to serve our diverse student population. I’ll ensure they understand our school’s mission, receive professional development related to varied student needs, and have access to various instructional tools and resources. Additionally, I’ll provide guidance and mentorship, creating an environment where they feel supported in addressing the unique backgrounds of all our students.

What is one piece of advice you would give to students who are in need of help but aren’t sure how to ask for help? 

Seeking support in a large school community can be intimidating for some students. My best advice for students who aren’t sure how to ask for help is to find just one adult they trust, a teacher, a counselor, a coach, a school aide, or even a paraprofessional. That one person can be your starting point to finding the support you need. Don’t feel like you have to figure everything out on your own; just take that first step by connecting with someone that you feel most comfortable with. 

Ms. Swinton steps into this new chapter at FDR with a commitment to listen, lead, and learn with purpose and intention. Her focus on equity, excellence, and empowering ISS teachers and students reflects a commitment to strengthening the school as a whole. With her guidance, the future of instructional services at FDR looks not only promising but also transformative. Welcome to the Cougar family!