There’s something truly special happening at Willis Jepson Middle School, and if you’ve been paying attention over the years, you know this isn’t new. Excellence is a tradition here.
For the fourth time, Jepson has been recognized as a California School to Watch, placing it in an elite group of middle schools across the country that demonstrate academic excellence, strong leadership, and a deep commitment to supporting the whole child. This is no ordinary recognition. Led by the California League of Middle Schools, it’s not something schools simply apply for; it’s something they earn through a rigorous and reflective process.
Schools take a hard look at every aspect of their work, from instruction and student achievement to school culture and support systems. After this intensive self-study, a team of educators from the Schools to Watch program visits the campus, spending time in classrooms, talking with students and staff, and seeing firsthand what makes the school exceptional. Only then is the designation awarded, making it clear that a School to Watch is truly in a league of its own.
For Jepson, 2026 is a year to celebrate in style! This fourth recognition, a true 4-peat, reflects years of dedication, creativity, and heart. The journey began in 2016 under then-Principal Kelly Birch, who first led the school to this honor and set the stage for success. Principal Adam Wight carried the torch in 2019, followed by Principal Ana Farina in 2022, each building on the strong foundation before them.
Under Principal Melissa Mainini, Jepson continues this remarkable legacy. She credits the school’s incredible staff for the achievement, saying it “is a testament to our staff’s dedication, willingness to think outside the box, and commitment to always putting our students first. Being recognized as a School to Watch means we are achieving our most important goal, providing our students with the best education.”
And she’s right, what makes Jepson truly shine are its people. Every member of the school community plays a role in making students feel welcomed, supported, and proud. From the friendly secretaries who greet families each day, to the custodial staff who help students take pride in their school, to the nutrition staff who fuel young minds and bodies, to the teachers students never forget, and the counseling and support staff guiding growth, the entire Jepson family works together to create a culture of excellence.
Adding to the excitement this week, Superintendent Ed Santopadre and Associate Superintendent Sasha Begell proudly unveiled the official School to Watch banner during the school rallies. Reflecting on the achievement, Superintendent Santopadre shared, “Jepson is more than a school; it’s a community where students are supported, challenged, and inspired every day. This recognition is a celebration of every person who makes that possible, and we couldn’t be prouder to see our Jaguars shine!”
True to Jepson’s spirit, the milestone was also marked with an apple cider toast led by former Principal Kelly Birch, bringing the community together to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to an even brighter future.
One thing is clear: Willis Jepson Middle School isn’t just a school, it’s a community of excellence. Here’s to the students, the staff, and a legacy that continues to grow stronger every year!