Dear John Hay families and staff,

I am pleased to announce Dr. Jerid Morisco has been named the acting principal of John Hay Elementary for the 2023-24 school year. He will begin serving as the acting principal effective immediately.

Principal Morisco will serve in place of Principal Silver, who has accepted a new role as the principal of James Baldwin Elementary (formerly James Baldwin Elementary).

Principal Morisco is entering his 32nd year in education. Making a positive difference in students’ lives continues to be one of his core values. He asserts that influencing the lives of and learning from his students has been the greatest honor of his life.

Most recently, he served as the assistant principal at B.F. Day elementary. Prior to moving into school administration, he served as department chair for the arts and connections departments on the high school and middle school levels. He is currently serving as the site coordinator for Meany Middle Schools summer program.

His teaching experience includes elementary through graduate-level courses. He served as an elementary music specialist and was honored as Teacher of the Year and System Teacher of the Year.

Principal Morisco is a life-long learner holding a bachelor’s, master’s, and a doctorate in music. He also holds an educational specialist degree in educational administration and supervision and has completed additional doctoral-level coursework in leadership. As the first college graduate in his family, Principal Morisco understands the importance of mentorship and paying forward the nurturing others gave him.

Principal Morisco is excited to serve as the principal for John Hay Elementary. He is committed to serving everyone with the constant focus on doing what is best for its students. He is honored to have the opportunity to continue making a positive difference in the world, one student at a time.

SPS will begin the search for a permanent John Hay Elementary School principal in Spring 2024. At that time, SPS will share next steps with the community.

I also want to thank Principal Silver for her leadership and service to John Hay Elementary.

Please join me in welcoming Principal Morisco!

Sincerely,

Dr. Brent Jones
Superintendent
Seattle Public Schools