Principal's Message
January 2025 - Happy New Year, Frank Antonides Community!
As we step into 2025, I want to take a moment to thank you all for the warm welcome I’ve received since starting in mid-October. In just a short time, I’ve seen so much kindness, dedication, and pride in this amazing school community, and I couldn’t be happier to be part of it.
I’ve already had the pleasure of experiencing so many wonderful moments—cheering on our Fall and Winter sports teams, celebrating the boys' soccer championship win, enjoying the honor roll breakfast, Veterans Day celebration, and parent-teacher conferences, watching our students shine at school dances and the winter band and chorus concert, and even taking part in our FAS holiday decorating. These experiences have shown me just how special Frank Antonides School truly is.
I’m so excited about what’s ahead in 2025! Whether it’s creating new opportunities for learning, strengthening connections within our school community, or celebrating the traditions that make Frank Antonides so wonderful, I know this year will be filled with growth, success, and memorable moments for our students, staff, and families.
Wishing you all a happy, healthy, and joyful new year. I can’t wait to see what we’ll accomplish together!
Warmly,
Melanie T. Jonas
Principal, Frank Antonides School
October 2024 - Dear West Long Branch Community,
I am thrilled and honored to introduce myself as the new Principal of Frank Antonides School. My name is Melanie T. Jonas, and I bring with me a deep passion for education, a strong commitment to fostering student success, and a dedication to creating a positive and nurturing school environment.
With over a decade of experience in educational leadership, including serving as a Vice Principal in a Grades 5-8 school, I have developed a strong understanding of middle school operations, curriculum development, and the importance of building relationships within the school community. My leadership approach focuses on communication, collaboration, and data-driven decision-making to guide instruction and empower our educators. I am confident that by working together, we can continue to build on the strengths of Frank Antonides School and achieve even greater success for our students.
I am particularly excited to join the West Long Branch community because of its strong traditions, commitment to academic excellence, and the close-knit nature of the school. I am eager to collaborate with students, parents, teachers, and the broader community to ensure that Frank Antonides School continues to thrive. I am committed to upholding the high standards of education that Frank Antonides School is known for, while also exploring opportunities to enhance our students' learning experiences including promoting extracurricular activities and sports essential for personal growth, leadership, and community building.
On a personal note, as a wife of 25 years and a mother of three daughters, I deeply understand the importance of fostering a school environment where every child feels valued, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential. I look forward to meeting each of you throughout the school year and to working closely with the entire West Long Branch community. Together, we will create a positive and thriving learning environment where every student can excel.
Thank you for welcoming me into your community. I am excited about the future and the opportunity to serve as your Principal.
Warm regards,
Melanie T. Jonas
Principal of Frank Antonides School
