Welcome PYA Families and friends! 

My name is Dr. Simone Martinez.  I am honored to be apart of  the PYA team, which is known for its dedication to excellence, but more importantly, to students. I have been dedicated to the field of education for more than twenty years. I have worked as a teacher, reading specialist, instructional coach, program specialist, assistant principal, and now as a principal. I consider my most important job to be a student advocate. Along with my dynamic team of teachers and staff members, we are excited to continue ensuring that our students can achieve their highest potential.

The teachers and staff, work hard to continue the legacy of success established by PYA by building strong relationships with parents, students, and community partners. PYA will continue to provide opportunities for students to show that they are inquirers, thinkers, risk-takers and communicators. Students will demonstrate that they are knowledgeable, principled, caring, open-minded, well balanced and reflective. These attributes help students develop their awareness of local and global issues. Through the program of study, students channel the acquisition and application of knowledge into community action or service. Students are expected to demonstrate positive attitudes towards people, the environment, and learning. The use of data will drive instruction to provide equitable, consistent, and rigorous implementation of the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum.

As an International Baccalaureate school, PYA offers an innovative IB approach to curriculum. The IB curriculum focuses on concepts in the following subject areas: Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Common Core State Standards, plus Art, Music, and an additional language (Spanish) throughout the year. The curriculum is divided into six units of Inquiry, which are designed around universal concepts and student questions. We promote creativity, and encourage artistic expression.    

My goal is to ensure that all students are healthy, happy, and safe. This year is going to be amazing as we hold high expectations for student effort and behavior. IB Learner Profile traits and attitudes define the learning and social behaviors of our students. As your Principal, it is important to me that everyone who steps through our doors are excited to be here! This attitude enables us to meet the challenges of academic excellence in a positive, fun, and nurturing environment. My door is always open and I welcome your input. PYA students, teachers, the faculty, the staff, and administration will continue working together as a professional learning community that keeps the PYA spirit vibrant and dynamic!

 Dr. Simone S. Martinez

Principal, PYA