Jamie Watkins

Current title:	Assistant Principal
My favorite food to eat on a Saturday:	Grilled fish tacos with extra lime or a lobster roll with salt & vinegar chips – either way, it reminds me of a great day at the beach, surfing!
The first book I fell in love with:	Nancy Drew Mystery Stories - Her adventures sparked my love of writing and storytelling and taught me the value of looking beyond what you see. I still believe the best learning, like the best books, should leave us full of wonder and curiosity.
I am a graduate from:	Marymount Manhattan College, Hunter College & Pace University
Number of years in education:	23 years
I became an educator because:	Inspired by my mentor, Dr. Arun M. Gandhi, affectionately known as a “peace farmer,” I felt called to special education, rooted in compassion and service. I first met him to talk about the inclusion of people with disabilities as a civil rights issue, and his belief that our greatest legacy is how we sow peace - especially through how we educate children —- has stayed with me ever since. I believe that the inclusion of people with disabilities in our society is essential to a just and humane world. Leadership, to me, is an act of service and I’m deeply humbled to support students with disabilities, their families, and our incredible team across P138M and District 75. It is the greatest honor and privilege to walk this path alongside brilliant educators and extraordinary students every day!