Valerie Hernandez, Principal 

email:  hernav1@collierschools.com

Hello, Fabulous Falcon Family!  My name is Mrs. Hernandez and I am honored to serve as the Principal for Golden Gate Middle School.  We are currently celebrating the move from a school rating of  “C” to a “B”!  The increase in our school grade is the result of  many hours of hard work by students, staff, and parents. We are so proud of everyone who helped us raise our grade.  Stay tuned for the 19-20 school year as we pursue our goal of being rated an “A” school. 

I encourage all parents to become partners with us to promote the emotional and academic success of our students.  Together we can make a difference! 

Eugenia Burton, AP Curriculum

email:  burtoneu@collierschools.com

My name is Eugenia Burton, Assistant Principal of Curriculum and Instruction at Golden Gate Middle School.  I attended Collier County Public Schools from kindergarten through 12^th grade and have served as a teacher, Student Support Assistant, Dean of Students, and Assistant Principal, with the majority of my experience being at the middle school level. My degrees from the University of South Florida included a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership.   Although this will be my 28^th year working for CCPS, this is my first at GGM and I look forward to meeting and working with our Falcon students, parents, and staff and to an awesome 2019-20 school year!

 Clay Terrell, AP Discipline

email: terrelcl@collierschools.com

Hello Golden Gate Middle School Families and Friends. My name is Mr. Clay Terrell. It is my pleasure to serve as your new assistant principal for attendant and discipline. I cannot tell you enough how excited I am to be rejoining the GGMS family again. I started my teaching career at Golden Gate Middle School many years ago. Many people in the Golden Gate Community still remember me as Dean or Coach Terrell. I am very community oriented and enjoy volunteering, traveling, spending time with my daughter and friends. This year is going to be very special. We want each and every student to know they are valued and respected.

To the parents and guardians, without you, we will not reach our full potential as a school.  We value you and your opinions. It is important for our school, staff, parents, and students to become partners in this journey that we have embarked upon. It is essential that students come to school every day happy and ready to give it their best. A positive attitude will enable students to become problem solvers in a fun nurturing environment. We look to you as a partner in your child’s education.  Thank you in advance for supporting your child's success at school.

If I can ever be of assistance, please email or call me.

Stay Safe, Healthy and Happy.

Emily Schaefer, AP

email: schaee1@collierschools.com

Hello Falcons! I am Emily Schaefer, Assistant Principal at Golden Gate Middle School. I am originally from Buffalo New York. I relocated to Florida after graduating from the State University of New York at Buffalo with a degree in Secondary Science Education. This will be my 10^th year in Collier County and I have had experience as a science teacher, department chair, soccer coach,  academic coach, and Assistant Principal. I am excited to collaborate with our staff, students, parents, and community members.

Supporting and guiding students to success is the reason that I became an educator. To see a student grow, succeed, and accomplish their goals is one of the most fulfilling experiences that a person can be a part of.