MIDDLE SCHOOL PRINCIPAL

I am thrilled to welcome you and your child to a new school year filled with promise, growth, and exciting opportunities. As the new Middle School Principal, I am eager to embark on this journey with you and your child. While I am new to this specific role, I bring with me a wealth of experience spanning over 25 years in education, including three years as an Elementary School Principal and years as instructional coach. My passion for education is deeply rooted in my own experiences as a father of six, foster parent of nine, and a steadfast believer in the power of human connection.

I believe that a strong partnership between home and school is essential for student success. To foster a positive and supportive learning environment, I encourage us to prioritize positivity, perseverance, and presence. By cultivating an optimistic outlook, developing resilience, and being fully engaged in both home and school life, we can create a foundation for your child to thrive.

I understand that middle school can be a pivotal time in a child’s life, filled with both challenges and incredible opportunities. To help you navigate this exciting phase, I’ve outlined some key areas to expect:

Academic Rigor: Middle school introduces a higher level of academic challenge, preparing students for high school and beyond.
Social Growth: Your child will experience significant social development as they build friendships and navigate peer relationships.
Independence: We encourage students to take ownership of their learning and develop essential life skills.
Extracurricular Involvement: We offer a variety of clubs, sports, and activities to help students discover their passions and talents.

To ensure that our students are fully engaged in the learning process, we have a no cell phone policy for the WIS Middle School during school hours. We believe this policy creates a focused and conducive learning environment. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of punctuality. Being present at the start of each school day is crucial for academic success.

 

As an International Bacclaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) candidate school, the WIS Middle School follows the MYP curricular framework. In Grades 6-8 we develop good study skills. We learn how to learn. 

As we embark on this new school year together, I am filled with optimism and anticipation. I am committed to creating a supportive and nurturing environment where every student can reach their full potential. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. I look forward to building a strong partnership with you.

Sincerely,
Derrek Berkompas
Grade 6-8 MYP Principal

6th Grade English Teacher
Windhoek International School