Superintendent Chris Fiedler announced that Justin McMillan will be the new principal at Quist Middle School in Thornton, Colo. beginning in the fall of 2023.

McMillan is a seasoned school principal and has 15 years of experience in this role from three districts including 27J Schools. He was the principal at Thimmig Elementary School from 2008 – 2014.  He’s been a middle school and elementary school principal. He’s also served as an assistant principal, athletic and activities administrator, and a teacher. 

“We are thrilled that Justin is returning to 27J,” Deputy Superintendent Will Pierce said. “He will join forces with a great team of educators, parents, and a supportive community. Together they will provide an incredible experience for Quist students.”

Currently McMillan is principal at Weld Central Middle School in Keenesburg, Colo. where he oversees the 500-student school. He serves as the instructional leader and supports teachers as they continue to improve academic achievement. He also plans and implements the school’s career and technical education pathways for middle school students. 

Prior to that, he served as the principal of Casey Middle School in the Boulder Valley School District. In addition to providing overall leadership support to the school, he was responsible for implementing the educational portion of Casey’s bond remodeling project which created STEM and Career and Technical Education learning spaces. 

 “I am thrilled and honored to have been selected to join an amazing school and community,” McMillan said. “I am equally looking forward to meeting families, staff and students in the near future.”

McMillan earned his undergraduate degree in biology from Western State College of Colorado and his masters in Educational Leadership from the University of Northern Colorado.

“I am very excited to begin Quist Middle School’s next chapter with parents, staff and students,” he said. “Together, we will cultivate a community of learners by behaving in a kind, caring, honest and compassionate manner in order to challenge and inspire each member of our school community to be more and do more than they thought possible.”

He will begin his new responsibilities July 1, 2023.