Emporia Public Schools Announces New Walnut Elementary Principal for 2026–27 School Year - December 11, 2025

Emporia Public Schools Announces New Walnut Elementary Principal for 2026–2027 School Year

Emporia, KS – Emporia Public Schools is pleased to announce that Mrs. Tonya Forbis has been selected as the next principal of Walnut Elementary School, beginning with the 2026–27 school year.

Mrs. Forbis brings experience in teaching, student support, and family engagement, along with a deep commitment to ensuring every student feels connected, capable, and supported. She currently serves as a Student Support Specialist at Walnut Elementary, where she works closely with students, families, and staff to enhance academic success and social-emotional well-being. In this role, she has helped students navigate available resources, strengthened communication between home and school, and collaborated with counseling services to address student needs effectively.

Before her current position, Mrs. Forbis spent six years as a General Education Teacher at Walnut Elementary. During that time, she designed engaging, data-driven instruction; integrated technology to support diverse learners; facilitated strong parent-teacher partnerships; and contributed to interdisciplinary projects that promoted student creativity and critical-thinking skills.

“I am honored and excited to step into the role of principal at Walnut Elementary,” Mrs. Forbis said. “Our school is an incredible and uplifting place, and I look forward to leading the students, staff, and families as we continue to grow and achieve amazing things together.”

“Tonya is student-focused and committed to supporting staff. Her current role as a Student Support Specialist and her years in the classroom have prepared her well to lead Walnut Elementary,” said Interim Assistant Superintendent of Teaching, Learning and Student Services, Sheryl Leeds. “She understands the needs of the school and will provide clear, consistent leadership. We are confident in her ability to guide Walnut forward.”

Mrs. Forbis holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and a Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction. She is completing her Master of Science in Educational Administration from Emporia State University this month.

Reflecting on her personal support system, Mrs. Forbis said, “A big part of who I am is my family. My husband and I have four amazing kids who bring energy and perspective to everything we do. They have always supported my passion for education and are excited to be a part of this next chapter.”

Mrs. Forbis will assume the principal role on July 1, 2026, following the retirement of current Walnut Elementary Principal Mrs. Jami Dakin, who will conclude her service at the end of the 2025–2026 school year. Emporia Public Schools is grateful for Mrs. Dakin’s dedicated leadership and her lasting impact on the Walnut Elementary community.