Welcome Message from Head of K-8

Dear Families,

I hope this message finds you well and that your summer has been filled with rest, joy, and a few memorable moments. My name is Jonathan D. Winn, and I’m honored to serve as your K–8 Head of School this year. I was born and raised right here in Oakland, attended the University of Washington for my undergraduate degree, and am now finishing my graduate studies at Johns Hopkins University.

Education has always been my passion, and I believe deeply in the power of schools to transform lives. I’m excited to partner with you in creating a year full of learning, growth, and community for our scholars. Together, I know we can make this school year our best yet!

One highlight of the new schedule is that all scholars will participate in daily Social Emotional Learning (SEL). These daily sessions help students build essential life skills like emotional regulation, empathy, healthy decision-making, and strong relationships.

We’re also implementing an important change to how homeroom classes are organized. Beginning this year, scholars will be randomly assigned to their homeroom classes, rather than being grouped by academic performance, time of enrollment, or other criteria as in previous years. This shift reflects our ongoing commitment to becoming a fully inclusive school—where all scholars, regardless of background or learning style, have the opportunity to learn and grow together.

Our educators are well-prepared to meet a wide range of learning needs through inclusive practices, collaborative teaching, and differentiated instruction. Please know this change was made with care, and with your scholar’s academic and social-emotional success at the center of our planning.

Thank you for your continued partnership. We’re looking forward to a joyful, connected, and enriching year ahead!

Respectfully,

Jonathan D. Winn
Head of School
AIMS College Prep K-8 (AIPCS II)
AIMS College Prep Middle School