Welcome Message from the Principal

My name is Ben Spencer and I am the Principal of the PHA Middle School. I have been a member of the PHA community since 2006, when I was a first-year English teacher in the high school. Since then, I have been dedicated to this community because of our brilliant students, supportive families, and passionate educators. I am thrilled to be part of the middle school team as we continue to partner with students, families, and community members to create a school experience that leads all students to high academic growth, positive identity development, and a lasting sense of belonging.

 

The middle school years are a crucial, exciting, formative time that provides students with a springboard into their academic and personal identities. At PHA, we believe that providing students with rich, meaningful projects in all disciplines allows students to feel a deep sense of agency and confidence as learners and community members. Our curriculum strives to provide students with opportunities to grapple with big, important questions and apply their academic skills and content knowledge in complex and meaningful ways in response to those questions. Through the relationships we build with students, thoughtful design of our curriculum, and student-centered instructional model, we work to help all students to lead their own learning and find joy and belonging in their school.

 

I am excited to partner with you as we work together to support, uplift, and affirm our middle schoolers’ brilliance. 

 

Sincerely, 

Ben Spencer
Middle School Principal