Principal's Message
Dear Current and Prospective Holmes Families,
It is with great excitement and deep purpose that I welcome you to Holmes Middle School and Humanities Magnet—a California Distinguished School, School to Watch, WASC-accredited campus, and a vibrant learning community where every student is known, supported, and inspired to thrive.
Nestled in a quiet Northridge neighborhood just blocks from Cal State Northridge, Holmes is more than a school—it is a place of possibility. From our acclaimed Humanities Magnet and School for Advanced Studies (SAS) to our inclusive culture of care, Holmes is a campus where students are challenged academically, nurtured socially and emotionally, and celebrated for who they are becoming.
As your new principal, I am honored to join a community defined by academic rigor, creative expression, and authentic human connection. With a legacy rooted in both excellence and equity, Holmes stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation. Our students explore literature, history, science, music, engineering, and the arts—often in the same day. This interdisciplinary approach empowers them to ask big questions, think critically, and develop the 21st-century skills they’ll need to lead with courage and compassion.
At Holmes, we believe that strong academics must be matched with strong relationships. We also understand that the middle school years can be a time of emotional change and growth. That’s why we provide a robust support system, including three full-time counselors, a school psychologist, a dean of students, a school nurse, and specialists supporting English Learners, Title I services, college and career readiness, and academic interventions. Our Parent Resource Liaison and administrative team work closely with families to ensure strong home-school communication and offer a range of parent workshops and engagement opportunities throughout the year.
Holmes offers a rich array of student clubs and activities that support our belief that students learn best when they are engaged and involved. From National Junior Honor Society, Robotics, and Odyssey of the Mind to Eco Club, Photography, Chess, and Drama, there is a place for every student to belong. Our lunchtime intramural sports and special interest clubs bring fun, friendship, and balance to the school day. Whether your child is designing a prototype in STEAM, collaborating on a group project in the Humanities Magnet, or leading a kindness campaign on campus, we are here to ensure they are stretched academically, supported emotionally, and surrounded by a community that believes in their brilliance.
There is no place like Holmes—and this year, we reaffirm our vision to be the school of choice for every learner. I invite you to be part of our journey. If you have questions, ideas, or simply want to connect, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Our main office can be reached at (818) 678-4100, Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
With gratitude and high hopes,
Susie Parker
Principal, Holmes Middle School and Humanities Magnet
