Mission & History
What is the Mission and History of James Jordan Middle School?
James Jordan Middle School (JJMS) is an award-winning public charter school serving over 450 students in grades 6-8 in the San Fernando Valley. JJMS was founded in 2005 by Dr. Myranda Marsh, a former teacher who witnessed firsthand the disparity between expensive private schools and free public schools. Following in her grandfather James Jordan's footsteps, Dr. Marsh vowed to do something about this. So, she created James Jordan Middle School in order to provide a top tier private-like education for FREE to all students.
Our MISSION is to prepare students to succeed at a four-year university. Our test scores place us as the most successful public middle school in the neighborhood. In 2025 and 2026, JJMS was named a BEST MIDDLE SCHOOL by the U.S. News & World Report for ranking in the top 6% of all California middle schools. In 2023, JJMS was awarded the Hart Vision Equity and Innovation Award for SCHOOL OF THE YEAR by the California Charter Schools Association. This award is presented to schools who have a demonstrated record of outstanding achievements in serving all students.
JJMS provides a challenging standards-based curriculum to a diverse student body with extensive support to ensure the success of all students, including underserved groups such as minorities and socio-economically disadvantaged students. We are known for our nurturing, productive, successful, structured and academically rigorous environment for both students and staff. Twice named a California Distinguished School, JJMS provides a FREE, high-quality education in a fun and safe environment.