James Elementary

🎉📚 We are so excited for the 2026–2027 school year at James Elementary! 🏫💙

As we get ready to welcome students back, we will be highlighting each of our campus teams so that families can get to know the amazing educators who will be serving, supporting, and loving your students throughout the year!

✨ Next up is our incredible 1st Grade Team! ✨

Our 1st grade teachers are dedicated to helping students build strong foundational skills, grow in confidence, and develop a lifelong love of learning. We can’t wait for a year filled with growth, curiosity, and success! 🍎

📚🍎 Kim Guthrie – 1st Grade

Hi! My name is Kim Guthrie, and I am excited to begin my 23rd year in education and my 15th year in Princeton ISD. I love helping young learners grow academically, socially, and emotionally while creating a classroom where students feel supported, encouraged, and excited to learn.

Outside of school, my husband and I have been married for 25 years, and we have two children—a son and a daughter. As a family, we enjoy playing board games, watching movies, and traveling to new places. I am looking forward to a wonderful year of learning, growing, and making memories at James Elementary!

📚🍎 Patty Siegel – 1st Grade

Hi! My name is Patty Siegel, and I am thrilled to be teaching 1st grade again this year. This will be my 14th year in education and my sixth year teaching in Princeton ISD. Before moving to Texas, I taught kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd grade in Illinois for eight years, but 1st grade has always held a special place in my heart.

I love helping students build confidence, develop a love of learning, and celebrate their growth throughout the year. I am excited for another fantastic year at James Elementary!

📚🍎 Stephanie Meaders – 1st Grade

Hello! My name is Stephanie Meaders, and I am excited to be joining the 1st grade team at James Elementary. This will be my eighth year teaching 1st grade. I graduated from Harding University with a degree in Elementary Education and love creating a classroom where students feel challenged, supported, and excited to learn each day.

Outside of school, my husband, Sam, and I have been married for six years and have a dog named Piper. I enjoy working out, traveling, crafting, and spending time with family and friends. I am looking forward to a fantastic school year!

📚🍎 Kelsey McMillin – 1st Grade

Hello! My name is Kelsey McMillin, and I am excited to be joining James Elementary as a 1st grade teacher. This will be my second year teaching 1st grade and my fifth year in education. I graduated from Freed-Hardeman University in Henderson, Tennessee, with a degree in Early Childhood Education.

My husband, Sam, and I moved to Texas last summer for his job, and we have been happily married for three years. Outside of the classroom, I enjoy running, traveling to new places, and spending time with family and friends. I am looking forward to an amazing year of learning, growth, and success with my students!

🎉📚 We are so excited for the 2026–2027 school year at James Elementary! 🏫💙

As we get ready to welcome students back, we will be highlighting each of our campus teams so that families can get to know the amazing educators who will be serving, supporting, and loving your students throughout the year!

✨ Next up is our incredible 2nd Grade Team! ✨

Our 2nd grade teachers are dedicated to helping students build confidence, strengthen foundational skills, and develop a lifelong love of learning. We can’t wait for a year filled with growth, discovery, and success! 🍎

📖🌎 Cassie Cullum – Reading & Social Studies

Hello! My name is Cassie Cullum, and this will be my sixth year teaching, all in Princeton ISD. I am passionate about helping students discover a love of learning and creating a classroom environment where every child feels supported, encouraged, and successful.

When I’m not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, cooking, and playing games. I am excited for another wonderful year at James Elementary and look forward to helping my students learn, grow, and thrive!

🔢🔬 Emily South – Math & Science

Hi there, families! My name is Emily South, and I will be teaching 2nd Grade Math and Science. This is my third year of teaching and my second year at James Elementary. I grew up in East Texas and attended Tyler Junior College and the University of North Texas.

Outside of the classroom, I enjoy working out, cuddling with my fur babies, and creating projects around my home. I am excited to be part of your child’s journey of success and look forward to an amazing year of learning, growth, and achievement. Go Jaguars!

🔢🔬 Tierra Dupree – Math & Science

Hello! My name is Tierra Dupree, and I am excited to be joining Princeton ISD as I begin my fourth year of teaching. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Student Affairs and Higher Education.

I am passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of my students and helping them grow both academically and personally. I look forward to getting to know the James Elementary community and creating meaningful learning experiences for my students this year!

📖🌎 Rachel Davis – Reading & Social Studies

Hi! My name is Rachel Davis, and I am beginning my fourth year of teaching and my second year teaching 2nd Grade Reading Language Arts and Social Studies. I love helping students foster a love for reading and writing while developing an appreciation for history and the world around them.

When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three young children. You can usually find us at a sporting event, fishing, hunting, cooking, baking, or working out together. I can’t wait to watch my students grow, learn, and have fun throughout an exciting school year at James Elementary!

‼️PTO designed shirts presale is available through this Friday! These will be available for pick up at meet the teacher.

📣Important note: These shirts will be the field day shirts for 1st-5th grade this year📣

James Elementary’s T-Shirt Shop Show your Jaguar pride 🐾 with James Elementary gear. Every shirt you buy helps our PTO fund teacher gifts, student surprises, and fun school events.Wear your…

🎉📚 We are so excited for the 2026–2027 school year at James Elementary! 🏫💙

As we get ready to welcome students back, we will be highlighting each of our campus teams so that families can get to know the amazing educators who will be serving, supporting, and loving your students throughout the year!

✨ Next up is our incredible 3rd Grade Team! ✨

Our 3rd grade teachers are dedicated to helping students build strong academic foundations while fostering confidence, curiosity, and a love for learning. We can’t wait for a year filled with growth, discovery, and success! 🍎

📖🌎 Ms. George – Reading & Social Studies

Hello! I’m Ms. George, and this will be my 8th year of teaching. I am certified to teach Kindergarten through 6th grade and am passionate about reading. I truly believe that when a child can read, they can be successful in all other subjects.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my three grown children and my granddaughter, who lovingly calls me “Lollie.” I attended Texas A&M University and am a huge football enthusiast! In my free time, I enjoy watching sports, traveling, entertaining, and spending time with friends and family. As a native Texan who grew up in the Richardson area, I’m excited to share my love of learning with my students this year!

🔢🔬 Ms. Jones – Math & Science

Hi! I’m excited to join the 3rd grade team teaching Math and Science this school year. As I begin my 4th year in education, I look forward to learning and growing alongside my students. I love supporting children from all backgrounds and helping them shine above and beyond the standard.

When I’m not at school, you can often find me traveling from coast to coast, attending anime conventions, or enjoying music festivals. I’m excited to share my passion and expansive perspective of math and science with my students this year! Fun fact: I also serve as the UIL Coordinator for James Elementary, so feel free to reach out with any UIL questions!

📖🌎 Shawndra Jackson – Reading & Social Studies

Hi! My name is Shawndra Jackson, and I am a dedicated educator with over nine years of experience helping students grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Born and raised in Saginaw, Michigan, I have lived in several places before eventually making my way back to Texas.

I attended the University of Tulsa on a full basketball scholarship before transferring to the University of Texas–Pan American, where I completed my collegiate basketball career and earned a bachelor’s degree in Communications. I later earned my master’s degree in New Media Journalism from Full Sail University. I am passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences that empower students to succeed both in and out of the classroom.

Outside of teaching, I am the creator and host of the You Matter Daily podcast and writing platform, where I share conversations about healing, faith, relationships, personal growth, and self-worth. I also enjoy photography through my business, RJackson Photography. Most importantly, I love spending time with my son, partner, family, and friends. I look forward to inspiring my students to learn, grow, and remember that they truly matter!

🔢🔬 Collin Cue – Math & Science

Hello! My name is Collin Cue, and I’m thrilled to be teaching 3rd Grade Math and Science at James Elementary! I’ve been teaching for four years and am excited to begin my fifth year in the classroom.

Outside of school, my heart belongs to my family—my wonderful wife, Mollie, and our amazing son, Theodore. When I’m not teaching, you can usually find me playing the piano or guitar, or enjoying game nights with family and friends. I’m looking forward to a fantastic school year filled with learning, growth, and fun!

As our PISD families prepare to return for a new school year, we want to remind you about the importance of consistent attendance. To help plan ahead for the best times for family getaways and important appointments, we hope this list of student days off for 2026-2027 will come in handy. In addition, for a printable copy of the full calendar, visit:
https://www.princetonisd.net/our-district/calendar

🎉📚 We are so excited for the 2026–2027 school year at James Elementary! 🏫💙

As we get ready to welcome students back, we will be highlighting each of our campus teams so that families can get to know the amazing educators who will be serving, supporting, and loving your students throughout the year!

✨ Next up is our incredible 4th Grade Team! ✨

Our 4th grade teachers are passionate about helping students learn, grow, and build confidence while creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. We can’t wait for a year filled with learning, laughter, and success! 🍎

📖 Riley Hooks – Reading & Social Studies

Hi, I’m Riley Hooks! I am excited to begin my 6th year of teaching and my 3rd year at James Elementary. I teach 4th grade Reading and Social Studies and love to help students build a true love for learning new things!

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my husband, daughter, family and friends. I also love baking, crafting, reading, and working out. I look forward to a wonderful year of learning and growth with my students!

🔢🔬 Ms. Wilhelm – Math & Science

Hi! I’m Ms. Wilhelm, and this will be my 11th year teaching. Throughout my career, I’ve taught 4th grade, 3rd grade, Kindergarten, Pre-K, and Montessori!

When I’m not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my two little girls, reading, and crafting. I spent much of my summer in New York, but I’m so excited to be back in the great state of Texas and ready to meet a new group of amazing 4th graders!

📚 Scarlett Flad – Reading

Hi! My name is Scarlett Flad, and this is my 6th year teaching and my 2nd year in 4th grade. I love teaching reading because I enjoy sharing my love of books and helping students discover the joy of reading.

Outside of school, my husband and I enjoy spending time with our friends, family, and dogs. I also love traveling, crafting, and finding creative ways to spend my time. I’m looking forward to a fantastic year with my students!

🔢 Ms. Grant – Math

Hey there! I’m Ms. Grant, and I am so excited to be teaching 4th grade Math for another amazing school year! This is my 17th year in education and my 3rd year at James Elementary.

I’m an absolute foodie and love trying new foods! When I’m not at school, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, playing board games, traveling whenever I get the chance, and simply enjoying life. I look forward to helping students learn, grow, and build confidence in math this year!

🔬🌎 Cassie Wilson – Science & Social Studies

Hi! My name is Cassie Wilson, and I’m so excited to kick off another amazing year at James Elementary! This is my 5th year teaching and my 5th year in 4th grade. This year, I will be teaching Science and Social Studies.

I love watching students explore, discover, and learn in their own unique ways. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends at the pool, park, or going to the movies. I can’t wait for a great year of learning and fun!

James Elementary 2026-2027 PTO designed spirit shirts are here!
📍 Shirts purchased from this link will be available for pickup at Meet the Teacher on August 10, from 5:30-7.

https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/james-elementarys-t-shirt-shop

🎉📚 We are so excited for the 2026–2027 school year at James Elementary! 🏫💙

As we get ready to welcome students back, we will be highlighting each of our campus teams so that families can get to know the amazing educators who will be serving, supporting, and loving your students throughout the year!

✨ First up is our incredible 5th Grade Team! ✨

We are committed to helping every child learn, grow, and succeed while creating a positive and encouraging learning environment. We can’t wait for another amazing year of learning, laughter, and success together! 🍎

🔬 Amanda Beaty – Science

Hello! My name is Amanda Beaty, and I am excited to be teaching 5th grade science! This is my 14th year teaching 5th grade science, and I love helping students explore, discover, and grow through hands-on learning.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my friends and family, going to the movies, and playing games. I look forward to an amazing school year and getting to know all of my students and their families!

📖 Annie Bruck – Reading Language Arts & Social Studies

Hi! My name is Ms. Bruck, and this year I will be teaching 5th grade Reading Language Arts and Social Studies. I am so excited for this new chapter and all the fun 5th grade has to offer. I have a passion for literature and can’t wait to share that with my students!

When I’m not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family. My favorite things to do in my free time are reading, going on hikes, and spending time with my friends.

➗ Bellami Shannon – Math

Meet Mrs. Bellami Shannon!

I’m entering my second year teaching 5th grade math at James Elementary, and I absolutely love being part of this community. Before becoming a teacher, I earned my BBA from Tarleton State University. I’m now finishing my MBA at Lamar University and will proudly graduate this December.

Alongside classroom teaching, I’ve worked as a reading tutor and as an online ESL teacher for students abroad, experiences that have shaped my passion for helping learners grow in every corner of the world.

Outside of school, I cherish time with my family, enjoy working out, trying new experiences, and believe in living each day with purpose. I love inspiring my students, celebrating their progress, and helping them discover the confidence they carry within themselves.

📚 Amy Shade – Reading & Social Studies

Hi! I’m Amy Shade! This is my 9th year of teaching and my first year teaching 5th grade Reading and Social Studies. I love teaching reading because I enjoy sharing my love of books and learning while cheering on all my students. This is going to be a great year!

🔢 Samantha Todd – Math

Samantha Todd is excited to join our team as a 5th grade Math teacher. She loves building relationships, creating a positive classroom environment, and helping students grow in confidence and succeed.

Outside of school, Samantha enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and crafting. She’s looking forward to a great year of learning and working with students and families!

Dear James Families,

My name is Monica Diaz, and I am honored to serve as the principal of James Elementary. I am excited to partner with you as we work together to ensure every student learns, grows, and succeeds. Our theme, Rooted in Excellence, reflects our dedication to nurturing every student’s growth and potential.

I believe that our greatest success comes from the strong partnerships we build with our families and community. Together, we can create meaningful opportunities that empower our students to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Your involvement, support, and trust are essential, and I look forward to working alongside you throughout the year.

As your principal, I am committed to fostering a culture of high expectations, meaningful relationships, and continuous growth. Every child has unique strengths and talents, and it is our responsibility to nurture those gifts while preparing students for a bright and successful future.

I would love the opportunity to meet you and your family before the school year begins. I invite you to join us at one of our upcoming events so we can connect, share, and start building a strong foundation together.

I look forward to meeting you and welcoming your family to James Elementary!

With gratitude,
Monica Diaz
Principal

Queridas familias de James,

Mi nombre es Mónica Diaz y es un honor servir como directora de la Escuela Primaria James. Estoy emocionada de colaborar con ustedes mientras trabajamos juntos para asegurar que cada estudiante aprenda, crezca y tenga éxito. Nuestro tema, Enraizados en la Excelencia, refleja nuestro compromiso de apoyar el crecimiento y el potencial de cada estudiante.

Creo firmemente que nuestros mayores logros provienen de las sólidas alianzas que construimos con nuestras familias y nuestra comunidad. Juntos podemos crear oportunidades significativas que permitan a nuestros estudiantes prosperar académicamente, socialmente y emocionalmente. Su participación, apoyo y confianza son esenciales, y espero trabajar junto con ustedes durante el año.

Como su directora, estoy comprometida a fomentar una cultura de altas expectativas, relaciones significativas y crecimiento continuo. Cada niño tiene fortalezas y talentos únicos, y es nuestra responsabilidad nutrir esos dones mientras los preparamos para un futuro brillante y exitoso.

Me encantaría tener la oportunidad de conocer a usted y a su familia antes de que comience el año escolar. Les invito a acompañarnos en uno de nuestros próximos eventos para conectarnos, compartir y comenzar a construir una base sólida juntos.

Espero con entusiasmo conocerlos y dar la bienvenida a su familia a la Escuela Primaria James.

Con gratitud,
Mónica Diaz
Directora

See you on the Front Porch!