🏫 Principal
Dr. Patrina Jenkins
📧 pljenkins@hampton.k12.va.us
Dr. Jenkins brings a wealth of experience and a passion for student success to Syms Middle School! She joins us from Captain John Smith Elementary School, where she served for the past four years. Before that, Dr. Jenkins supported students and staff as an assistant principal at Hampton High School, Bethel High School, Jones Magnet Middle School, Spratley Middle School, and Barron Elementary School.
Her journey in education began in Newport News City Public Schools, where she spent 14 years inspiring middle school students in the classroom. Dr. Jenkins holds a bachelor’s degree from Old Dominion University, a master’s degree in education from Regent University, an Ed.S. in leadership and supervision from The George Washington University, and a doctorate in leadership and administration from Nova Southeastern University. We are excited to have her leadership guiding our Syms community!
🔬 Assistant Principal – 6th Grade
Mr. Andrew Perry
📧 aperry1@hampton.k12.va.us
Mr. Perry is thrilled to be back home at Syms Middle School! From 2012–2016, he proudly served Syms students as a science teacher, 21st Century tutor, and PBIS team leader. He returns to us from Newport News Public Schools, where he spent the last five years as a middle school science teacher and instructional team leader.
In addition to his classroom expertise, Mr. Perry has chaired the superintendent’s teacher advisory committee and earned the honor of 2019–2020 NNPS Teacher of the Year. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from George Mason University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Old Dominion University. His enthusiasm and dedication make him a fantastic leader for our 6th graders!
📘 Assistant Principal – 7th Grade
Ms. Porsche Moody
📧 pmoody@hampton.k12.va.us
Ms. Moody joins Syms with a passion for student success, instructional excellence, and educational leadership. She has served as an eighth-grade science teacher with Hampton City Schools since 2020. During the 2025–2026 school year, she also served as a Team Lead, supporting the implementation of Master Plan 2.0 and the Academies of Hampton while helping ensure alignment between division initiatives and classroom instruction. Her commitment to students and excellence in teaching was recognized when she was named Eaton Middle School's 2024–2025 Teacher of the Year.
Prior to joining Hampton City Schools, Ms. Moody taught eighth-grade science in Chesapeake Public Schools and Weldon City Schools, bringing more than a decade of experience in education to her new leadership role.
Ms. Moody earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Chowan University and a Master of Arts in Management and Leadership from Liberty University. She also completed additional education coursework through the University of Phoenix and most recently earned a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Old Dominion University in December 2025.
🧭 Assistant Principal – 8th Grade
Dr. Brady Payne
📧 bpayne@hampton.k12.va.us
Dr. Payne is excited to join the Syms community, bringing more than 15 years of experience in education and a strong background in leadership and student support. For the past two years, he served as an Assistant Principal at Lindsay Middle School. Prior to Lindsay, Dr. Payne served as a Behavior Specialist, Professional School Counselor, and classroom teacher. Throughout his career, Dr. Payne has focused on strengthening school culture, supporting effective instruction, and increasing student engagement. He is passionate about restorative practices and relationship-centered approaches that help students develop accountability, reflection, conflict-resolution skills, and positive behaviors. In 2020, Dr. Payne was recognized as the Hampton City Schools Elementary Teacher of the Year.
Dr. Payne earned his bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies for Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Professional School Counseling from Hampton University. Additionally, he earned a doctorate in Educational Policy, Planning, and Leadership from The College of William & Mary. Dr. Payne is committed to empowering students and educators and building meaningful relationships with families and the school community. We look forward to the leadership, dedication, and student-centered approach he brings to our Spartan community.