
Message From The Principal
Hello, and welcome to the 2026 school year!
We are excited to begin another year at GATES and grateful to continue to grow together as a learning community. I am so proud of our students, who continue to show resilience, growth, and achievement. This past year, we celebrated an impressive graduation rate that reached an all-time high for GATES High School. This reflects not only the hard work of our students but also the dedication of our staff and the strong support of families and community.
At GATES, we are committed to excellence and to ensuring every student thrives. Our district continues to focus on three key areas: Social Justice and Equity, Improving Instruction, and Family and Community Partnerships. These priorities are deeply woven into the fabric of our school and guide us as we work to provide every student with meaningful opportunities for success.
Restorative practices remain a cornerstone of how we create a safe, respectful, and supportive environment. We believe that relationships are at the heart of learning, and we prioritize communication, reflection, and growth over punitive discipline. This approach allows students and staff to learn and move forward together in ways that strengthen our school community.
We are also deeply proud of the diversity that our students, families, and staff bring to GATES. We strive to create a culturally responsive and inclusive environment that honors and celebrates the unique voices, talents, and experiences of all members of our community. We truly believe our differences make us stronger, and we are committed to making sure every student feel seen, valued, and supported.
As a community, we continue to work alongside families and community partners to create meaningful opportunities for collaboration and support. We know that when families and schools work hand in hand, students thrive.
Thank you for trusting us with your child’s education. We are proud to walk alongside you in this journey and to prepare our students to graduate ready to succeed in life beyond high school. Regular attendance and engagement are key, and we ask for your continued partnership in helping every student reach their full potential.
Please don’t hesitate to contact me directly with any questions or concerns. Together, let’s make this year one of growth, learning, and celebration for all!


Val Jones
Principal, GATES High School
vjones@fpschools.org
(253) 298-4000
