Welcome Interim Principal Matthews

Dear Wenonah Community:

I am so excited to join your school community as your interim principal for the 2026-27 school year. My life long goal was to be an educator and help shape the minds of our young scholars. Throughout my career I have served at both the secondary and elementary levels, and by far, working with students at the elementary level presents the best opportunity to help shape their future. I am looking forward to seeing their smiles and to collaborating with staff, parents and the broader community.

At Wenonah, your students will be safe, taken care of, loved and they will learn. I have a Bachelors Degree in Special Education from Western Illinois University and a Masters in Educational Leadership from Bethel University. I believe that all students can learn and we have to find ways to help them learn. I’ve wanted to be an educator since I was in fifth grade and it is not lost on me how many students discover their gifts and passions at a young age. It is a core value for me to help young scholars find their strengths and develop their talents.

Personally, I love Minneapolis. I have two adult sons who are proud MPS alums and four grandchildren who are being educated in Minneapolis. I’ve spent my entire career in Minneapolis as a teacher, assistant principal and principal. I hope you enjoy the rest of the summer and look forward to meeting you, learning with you and our students and having a great school year. Please know that my door is always open. 

Sincerely,

Tonya Matthews

Interim Principal