Principal's Message
2025-2026 School Year
August 2025
Dear MLK SOA Families and Staff,
¡Bienvenidos! Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year at Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. School of the Arts (MLK SOA). My name is Mrs. Cathleen Main, and I’m honored to serve as your Principal this year. Joining me is our new Assistant Principal, Ms. Denise Carneiro, who brings deep experience in content integration, instructional strategies, social‑emotional learning, culturally responsive teaching, and restorative practices.
💛 Our Shared Vision
At MLK SOA, families and staff partner together to validate and affirm the identities of our students. We build a bridge to a rigorous learning environment full of love and supported by the arts. As we empower students to become independent and creative thinkers, our collective goal is to nurture their personal growth, academic development, and social well-being.
Grounded in our community, we are committed to positively engaging students locally and globally, fostering authentic learning that lays the foundation for future academic and career success.
🎨 Arts & Community Partnerships
We’re thrilled to continue our rich arts integration through partnerships with Palenke Arts and the Weston Collective. Our campus will be filled with creativity throughout the year.
You can look forward to community-centered events such as Latin Art Night, seasonal concerts, and other family nights that celebrate our unity. Plus, we offer unique educational experiences such as:
- Electives for 5th & 6th grades
- Classes led by professional musicians right here at school.
🤝 Community Leadership & Voice
As a true community school, our leadership model is built on the belief that every member of our family is a powerful and influential contributor. This year, you’ll see that belief in action through:
- Collaborative decision-making
- Inclusive school planning
- Shared everyday classroom life
We welcome the voices of students, families, and staff in steering our school forward.
🌟 Year Ahead Focus
Our vision is clear:
- Students feel seen, have increased student voice are supported, and are inspired
- Families remain true partners.
- Students’ identities are validated and affirmed through the arts.
When we unite our wisdom and energy, we nurture thoughtful, creative, compassionate global citizens.
📅 Save the Date – Kick-Off Events
- Grade 5 & 6 and TK/K Orientations - August 2 - meet the teams and learn more about the instructional programs
- Back-to-School Connections - August 18-22 - get to know your child’s teacher and share your hopes for your child’s school experience
Stay connected through our newsletter, website, and social media. And if you'd ever like to connect personally, we’re just an email or a visit away.
Respectfully,
Mrs. Cathleen Main, Principal
Ms. Denise Carneiro, Assistant Principal
