About

JICMS is structured as an academically rigorous program based on the Core Knowledge scope and sequence. Students will be required to take core classes in English, math, science, history, and physical education. Music and art are also offered as part of our regular schedule. Core Knowledge seeks to give every student a broad foundational knowledge base that is essential for success in school and beyond.

School and Class Size– In order to help students achieve, we will limit our student enrollment to 465.

Parental Involvement– Parents are significantly involved in JICMS and actively contribute their talents and abilities. We depend greatly on our families to volunteer as much as possible throughout the year.

Single Sex Classrooms– Single-sex classrooms enable students to reach their full potential by helping to eliminate distractions and reduce disciplinary issues.  Single Sex Education

Uniforms– To channel creativity towards academic excellence and to create an environment of mutual respect, all students wear school uniforms.

Character Education– The values taught at JICMS will help students develop strong moral character.

After School Activities– Students are offered a variety of after-school and in-school activities including but not limited to:

  • Basketball
  • Cheerleading
  • Chess
  • Cross Country
  • Flag Football
  • Fencing
  • NJHS
  • Science Club
  • Track
  • Volleyball
  • Weights & Conditioning
  • Wrestling
  • Yearbook

 

Leadership

Michele Prusinowski - Principal

Michele Prusinowski has been working with students and parents at James Irwin Charter Middle School since 2009. She believes that working on a team of dedicated colleagues who are passionate about the school’s mission brings strength and joy to each day!

Mrs. Prusinowski graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education in May 1985 and has taught a variety of ages and grade levels since then as a teacher in high school, preschool, and middle school. In December 2015, she completed a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction through Pensacola Christian College. Her educational career has involved being a small business owner, teacher, coach, mentor, and administrator. As a leader, Michele strongly believes that parents are the first and most important educations of their children; she desires to join hands with parents to provide access to an excellent education for all students where teachers, administration, parents, and students can interact and communicate successfully. The JICS mission to develop character and academic potential through academically rigorous, content-rich educational programs drives her focus as she works with others to ensure it occurs daily.

Michele and her husband, Mike, moved to Colorado Springs in 2009 so they both could serve JICS families. They have been married since 1988 and have three adult children/spouses – Paige, Matt, and three grandchildren (in northern Kentucky); Joseph and Tiffany–Army Strong; Judy and Scott–Army Strong. Mrs. Prusinowski enjoys writing, reading, spending time with family and friends, and working with middle school families! Her open door/open chair policy in the middle school welcomes one and all.

 

Mary Aquino - Assistant Principal

Mary Aquino accepted the position of Assistant Principal of James Irwin Charter Middle School in the summer of 2017. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Business Management from the University of Guam. Mary started her career in education in 2002 as a high school teacher of business management classes (entrepreneurship, general business, economics, and computer applications). She then relocated to Colorado Springs, Colorado, where she enrolled in a Master’s program for education at the University of Phoenix. In the year 2007, Mary started working for JICMS as a sixth-grade teacher’s assistant and quickly entered the role as 6th grade teacher after graduating with her Master’s degree.  She has since worked in various positions at JICMS such as math teacher, keyboarding teacher, and instructional coach. Mary has a passion for developing positive relationships with everyone who crosses her path, working with students as they grow, supporting teachers and staff so they can reach their greatest potential, and fostering a positive school culture. She believes that by working together, we can instill a passion for learning that will take students to the next level of success in their life. Mary experiences at JICMS and its educational beliefs and values are what keeps her motivated.