Dear Students, Parents/Guardians, and Community Partners,
I step into the role of Principal at Jonata Middle School with passion, excitement, and the belief that
we have the best students, staff, and families in the Valley! It is an honor to be a member of the
Jonata Team and Buellton Union School District.
My family and I relocated to Buellton from New Jersey in January of 2023 after a summer visit to
the Central Coast in 2022. We love the city of Buellton, the Central Coast, and the schools that serve
our children. Both my son and daughter are students at Oak Valley Elementary!
I served the community of Buellton during the 2023 - 2024 school year as the Assistant Principal of
both Oak Valley Elementary School and Jonata Middle School. In this role, I was able to gain
valuable insight under Principal Melby on the structures and systems that are in place that make
our district effective at growing learners who not only achieve academic success but are also kind,
safe, respectful, and responsible. Although we have two school sites, we truly believe that we are
one district in which both sites work collaboratively to foster student growth.
My goal is to continue the trajectory of success and achievement that already exists at Jonata
Middle School. I will work collaboratively with staff, students, and our parents/guardians in order
to strengthen our learning environment and ensure that the climate and culture of our campus is
one in which all feel valued and cared for.
Sincerely,
Case McKeen
Casey McKeen
Principal, Jonata Middle School
[email protected]
805-688-4222 ext. 2258