Dear Families,

Welcome to Andrew S. Douglas Middle School.

My name is Zerda Palmer, and I am honored to serve as the principal of Andrew S. Douglas Middle School. This is my eighth year in the principal’s office. Douglas Middle School has grown so much since we opened our doors as a full-service middle years program in the 53206 neighborhood in 2019-20. Our building has been renovated and our technology has been upgraded. We have new windows, fresh coats of paint, and inspiring murals. Our Library Media Center has new furniture, and students will report to a brand-new gymnasium for Physical Education classes. Math and Science classes start in the classroom. Students build on what they know in our GE Innovation Laboratory. Students learn the basics of 3D printing, computer programming, and game design using campus technology.

Learning doesn’t end with the school day. Students can enjoy after-school enrichment at the Milwaukee Recreation Twilight Center located here at Douglas Middle School. Family members of all ages are invited to school theme nights and celebrations. You can learn more about what your child is learning in school and get to know their teachers during these events. For a complete list of parent and family programs, you need to meet our parent and family coordinator Melissa Johnson (johnsomd@milwaukee.k12.wi.us). Please help us make this school an even better resource for this community, and your child, by attending a meeting of our School Engagement Council. Families are partners at Douglas Middle School.

Just a few things about myself. I attended Alcorn State University in Mississippi, then returned to Milwaukee to begin teaching in my hometown. I have 13 years of classroom experience as a middle school English/Language Arts teacher and three years’ experience with curriculum and instruction. While moving into school leadership I earned two master’s degrees from Cardinal Stritch University.

I still love to read and, yes, I still think of myself as a teacher. Supporting Douglas teachers and staff is one of the most important things I do. This is why: They go above and beyond for your children every day. Douglas teachers take deep pride in their work, believing in and bringing out the best in all students. We have even created our own social and emotional learning program and embedded it in our classrooms. Students who learn to identify, describe, and manage their emotions are healthier and more successful in every possible way.

If you are a parent or caregiver who wants to change the narrative about 53206 and give your child(ren) an excellent academic foundation for high school, Douglas Middle School has room and resources for your entire family. Let’s meet.

Sincerely,

Zerda Palmer, principal
Andrew S. Douglas Middle School