Principal's Message

Dear Washington Students and Families,

It is with great excitement that I write this letter of introduction to you as the Principal of George Washington Middle School.   I am honored to have the opportunity to be part of a school with such an amazing history.  The students, families and staff truly make George Washington a very special place to teach and learn.  I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of this school and to support the students, their families, and our staff. 

I have been in education for more than twenty-three years.  In that time, I have worked with students ranging in age from Kindergarten through 12th grade in a variety of roles. My career began as a middle school social studies and science teacher before I transitioned into administration.  As an administrator, I have been a dean, an elementary and middle school assistant principal, an elementary school principal and now the proud principal of George Washington Middle School. I am thrilled to bring my skills and experience to George Washington Middle School.  I look forward to partnering with you to ensure every student has an opportunity to meet his/her full potential and has a transformational learning experience at George Washington.  

To me, education is a life-long experience. Our dedicated, creative, and compassionate staff will focus on preparing our students to be socially and emotionally prepared to meet the rigor of their educational journey, not just at GWMS but beyond.   My belief is that students are the center of all school-related decisions.  I am excited to unite my experience, my openness to learn, and my child-centered approach to support our students.  Because the relationships between families and the school are vital to the success of our students, I encourage you to become involved in every way possible.  

Family is very important to me and will be visible members in the District 103 community. My wife is also a professional educator and currently is a middle school instructional coach in another school district.   We live in a neighboring community  with our four children. Our oldest son is a student at Elmhurst University and our oldest daughter is a senior in high school this fall.  We have 

two elementary age children, a daughter in 4th grade and our youngest boy in 2nd grade.  We look forward to being a part of the GWMS community and all that it offers. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me.  I look forward to meeting you soon!  

Sincerely,

Joshua D. Dakins Sr. 

Mr. Joshua D. Dakins Sr., M.A., C.A.S.

Principal, George Washington Middle School/District 103 Athletic Director

Lyons Elementary School District 103

8101 Ogden Ave., Lyons, IL 60534

PHONE: (708) 550-2203 x 2046

FAX: (708) 780-9757

EMAIL: [email protected]