Administration

Tonya Hawkins, Principal

Welcome to Arlington Elementary School—Home of the Tigers—where learning is exciting, every child is valued, and together we are The Greatest School on Earth!

As we begin the 2026–2027 school year, we are thrilled to welcome both returning and new families to Arlington Elementary School. Our circus-inspired theme reminds us that every student, staff member, and family plays an important role in making our school an extraordinary place to learn and grow. Every day is another opportunity to discover new talents, celebrate achievements, and cheer one another on.

Arlington Elementary has a long tradition of excellence built upon high expectations, dedicated educators, and exceptional students. We are proud to be a high-performing school where academic achievement is matched by a commitment to developing character, creativity, resilience, and empathy. Our staff works tirelessly to provide engaging learning experiences that inspire curiosity and help every child reach their fullest potential.

One of our greatest strengths is our incredible community. Our families are active partners in their children's education, and our PTA and parents are second to none. Their unwavering support, generosity, and countless volunteer hours help create memorable experiences that enrich the lives of our students and staff. Together, we have built a school community that truly feels like family.

This year, our students will be encouraged to step into the spotlight, embrace new challenges, and discover just how capable they are. Whether they are mastering new academic skills, building lasting friendships, performing on stage, or serving others, we want every Tiger to know they belong, they are valued, and they have a place in our "greatest show."

Thank you for trusting us with your children each day. It is a privilege to serve the Arlington community, and we are excited for another year filled with learning, laughter, growth, and celebrations.

The curtain is rising, the lights are shining, and the greatest adventure of the year is about to begin. Welcome to The Greatest School on Earth!

We can't wait to watch our Tigers ROAR throughout an incredible 2026–2027 school year!

Carl Booker, Assistant Principal

It is an honor and privilege to be a part of Arlington Elementary School! I am so excited about working with the families of Arlington Community Schools and the outstanding faculty and staff of AES. Our mission, here at AES, is to always provide our students with a safe, nurturing learning environment and to ensure that all students are equipped with the skills essential to succeed academically and to become healthy, productive citizens in the community. 

AES is a wonderful place for all students to learn and grow. My wife and I have a daughter that has spent her entire educational tenure with Arlington Community Schools. 

The staff of AES is dedicated to the success of every student. The Arlington community has a rich history of academic and cultural excellence that is valued and we embrace the task of continuing to prepare our students to be productive citizens as they move to the next chapter of their educational lives.

My career in education began in 1999 at Robert E. Lee Elementary in Jackson, MS, followed by time at Southwind Elementary and Southwind High School before joining Arlington Elementary School in 2009. All of my experiences continue to inspire me to be the best that I can be for the students, staff, and families of AES. 

Here at AES, we recognize the value and importance of family partnerships and together we can inspire curiosity and a love of learning in your child. My door is always open and your involvement is always welcomed and appreciated. 

Go AES Tigers!!!

Monica Gallimore, Assistant Principal

In keeping with this year’s circus theme, I am both excited and honored to step into another amazing year as one of Arlington Elementary’s three assistant principals for the 2026–2027 school year.

As a seasoned educator who has taught Kindergarten through 4th grade, serving as an assistant principal at Arlington Elementary continues to be the greatest show on earth! For the past 19 years, AES has been more than just where I work—it’s been my home under the big top.

My husband and I have built our lives around the Arlington community, and we’re proud to say that both of our children are AES alumni who went on to Arlington Middle and graduated from Arlington High School. The family feel at Arlington Elementary is something truly special. It’s a place where traditions are celebrated, students are encouraged to shine, and teachers perform incredible feats every day to help children succeed.

I’m proud to be part of an administrative team that works together to keep all the acts running smoothly and ensure AES remains a place where every student and staff member feels valued, supported, and part of something extraordinary.

As we begin another exciting school year, I look forward to cheering on our amazing students and staff as they discover new talents, overcome challenges, and celebrate successes together. Here's to a year filled with wonder, growth, laughter, and unforgettable moments under the AES big top!

Welcome to the greatest school year on earth, Arlington!

 

Susan Howard, Assistant Principal

I am truly thrilled and honored to serve as Assistant Principal at Arlington Elementary—where we're creating the greatest show on earth! I am proud to serve both of our outstanding elementary schools within Arlington Community Schools, each with its own unique theme and spirit. With 27 years of experience spanning kindergarten, first grade, third grade, interventionist roles, and administration, I bring a seasoned and compassionate perspective to supporting students, faculty, staff, and families.

In my role, I am dedicated to center-ring initiatives, including overseeing intervention programs, dyslexia recognition and support, and providing dyslexia training for our teachers, alongside the full range of assistant principal duties. Having taught for 22 wonderful years within our schools, and with both of my sons proudly graduating from Arlington High School (attending ACS schools K–12), my connection to this community runs deep. I am passionately committed to partnering with families to nurture, inspire, and grow every child's unique potential—spotlighting the gifts each student brings to our three-ring circus.

Thank you for entrusting us with your most precious treasures—your children—as we work together to create a warm, welcoming, and empowering center stage where every student can shine at Arlington Elementary!