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John W. Battle III, Assistant Principal, 8th Grade
As the 8th Grade Assistant Principal, Mr. John W. Battle III welcomes all 8th grade scholars to the 2024-2025 WDMS school year, where we are “Standing On Business”.This school year is dedicated to the future class of 2028. The spotlight of excellence will be on you, so be prepared to shine and perform at the highest level achievable. Each of our outstanding 8th grade teachers and staff members have planned for you to have fun while learning in diverse and engaging classroom settings, all while modeling our schoolwide expectations of being RESPONSIBLE, RESPECTFUL, and TOLERANT to others.As 8th graders, you are now the leaders of our school. This is your time to set the standard and be role models for the younger students. We expect you to demonstrate leadership, integrity, and a commitment to academic excellence. You have the power to shape the culture and climate of WDMS through your actions and attitudes. Embrace the opportunity to make a positive impact and leave a legacy of excellence.In addition, each of our 8th grade scholars are tasked with ensuring our winning Wildcat traditions continue. Mr. Battle empowers you to compete in the classroom, on the field of play, in performances, and in competitions.About John W. Battle IIIPrior to joining the William Dandy Middle School family, Mr. Battle made a significant impact at Whiddon-Rogers Education Center. He was instrumental in coordinating both the Middle and High School programs by providing alternative educational and behavioral strategies that supported social-emotional growth and instilled a desire for students to become lifelong learners.Joining the Broward County Public School District in 2002 as a Drama instructor, he revitalized the Hallandale Magnet High School Performing Arts and Track & Field Departments by using innovative teaching and coaching strategies, resulting in 100% of those program students graduating. Mr. Battle is a graduate of Miami Killian Senior High School, Florida A&M University, and NOVA Southeastern University with a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership.Mr. Battle has the unique ability to motivate his students and staff to set and meet high expectations by inspiring them to strive for professional and academic excellence. As an educator, Mr. Battle has achieved major success by developing mentoring programs and academic pathways that require inquiry, critical and constructive thought, and problem-solving.Mr. Battle believes, “It is always a great day to be greater and always a great day to be a WDMS Wildcat!” Knowledge is power and education is the cornerstone of all successful people and systems. “If given the proper environment, exposure, resources, and presentation, all students can learn.” At thee William Dandy Middle School, our academic voices will be heard, and we will R.O.A.R. this year, “Reaching Outstanding Academic Results.”Remember, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson MandelaHave a great Wildcat Day! -
Uta H. Tomlinson, Assistant Principal, 7th Grade
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Ayanna B. Whitworth-Barner, Assistant Principal, 6th Grade
Greetings Wildcat Families,
I am Ms. Whitworth-Barner, affectionately known as Ms. W.B. I welcome 6th grade parents and students to a fantastic 2024-2025 school year. Our school motto this year is “Standing On Business”. This year, my focus is to work with students, staff, and our school community to “Standing On Business!”
Over the years, I feel we have grown to know and truly understand that it takes all of us to ensure the success of our scholars. I believe that every student can learn and be successful if provided the right support and opportunities. Our teachers and staff are committed to providing all students with an appropriate and challenging educational experience in a respectful environment that fosters learning and growth.
A crucial part of success for students is attendance. As a parent or guardian, it is essential for you to maintain an attitude that “Every Day Counts” for students to be in school and ready to learn each day. At William Dandy, we will continue to assist in helping parents and families understand the importance of instructional time and school attendance.
We recognize that family and community support are integral to our success. Parents/Guardians play the most important roles in a student's success, and I invite you to collaborate with us in your students' education. We encourage you to experience our school culture, one that is focused on providing students with the academic and social resources that will prepare them to achieve their post-secondary goals. This is why we encourage you to join us as a volunteer through PTSA, School Advisory Council, and attend Parent & Family Engagement events.
This is my 17th year as a Broward County Schools educator and fourth year as Assistant Principal at William Dandy Middle School. A native of Watts, California, I have been blessed to experience a stellar public-school education. With that education, I went on to attend the University of Arizona and Florida Atlantic University to earn 4 of 5 degrees. This, along with raising a family of four sons, I know how important it is to plan with purpose and the need to have a supportive family to encourage us all to strive and achieve success through education.
When we take the time to strategically plan, forge positive relationships, celebrate our achievements, and continue to build on our successful foundation, we can foster a learning environment where our entire William Dandy school community thrives.
I look forward to a fun and enhanced school year!
-WB, 8th Grade Assistant Principal
