Dr. Marlene Coleman, Principal

Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year at John D. Jenkins Elementary School!

I hope you and your family have enjoyed a summer filled with rest, adventure, and special memories. As we are preparing to launch another exciting school year, I would like to extend a warm welcome to all our returning students and families, as well as those joining our school community for the first time. We are thrilled to begin this journey with you!

At John D. Jenkins, we are proud to be a Leader in Me school, where we empower students to develop leadership skills and take ownership of their learning through the 7 Habits of Happy Kids. The school’s theme, “One School, One Team, Making a World of Difference,” reinforces our dedication to nurturing proactive student leaders who collaborate, set goals, and recognize the strengths of others. These habits are deeply ingrained in our school culture and help shape confident, responsible, and compassionate learners.

Our dedicated teachers and staff have worked hard to create safe, welcoming, and engaging learning environments for every student. We believe in building strong partnerships with families and know that when we collaborate, incredible things happen.

Instructional Hours:

School starts at 9:20 a.m. and ends at 4:00 p.m.
Students arriving after 9:20 a.m. are considered tardy and must be signed in by a parent or guardian at the front office. To maintain continuous instruction, we kindly ask that students stay in school all day and not be picked up early unless it's an emergency. Additionally, please avoid picking up students between 3:30 p.m. and 4:00  p.m., unless there is an emergency, as we are preparing for dismissal and want to ensure all students are safely on buses or in the correct car rider lane.

We encourage you to stay connected by visiting our website at https://jenkinses.pwcs.edu/, updating your latest contact information (cell phone and email) in ParentVue to receive school and teacher newsletters, and following us on our official Facebook page at facebook.com/108165997225596. If you have questions or need assistance, our front office is always happy to help.

Thank you for your continued partnership in helping our students become confident, capable leaders. We look forward to seeing all the bright smiles and eager learners on the first day of school!

Assistant Principal Catherine Trenkelbach

Welcome to the 2025–2026 school year at John D. Jenkins Elementary School!

My name is Catherine Trenkelbach, and I am honored to begin my second year as Assistant Principal and my 23rd year in education. It’s a privilege to continue serving this incredible community of learners, educators, and families.

This year, I’m especially excited to support the launch of our new House System, which aligns with our Leader in Me framework. This initiative will help strengthen student leadership, build community, and foster a sense of belonging across all grade levels.

At Jenkins, we believe every child has the potential to lead, and we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive, and empowering environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Please feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to connect and support in any way I can.

Here’s to a year of growth, connection, and leadership!
Warmly,
Catherine Trenkelbach
Assistant Principal
John D. Jenkins Elementary School

Assistant Principal Meredith Allen

Dear Jenkins Families,

My name is Meredith Allen, and I am thrilled to join the Jenkins community as your new Assistant Principal. With over 20 years of experience in education, I bring a deep passion for instructional technology, coaching, and collaborative leadership.

 Most recently, I served as the Instructional Technology Coordinator for Arlington Public Schools, where I led professional learning initiatives, co-taught technology-integrated lessons, and supported teachers in implementing innovative instructional practices. My work has always centered on equity, inclusion, and access—ensuring that all students, especially those with diverse learning needs, benefit from engaging and effective digital tools.

 Throughout my career, I’ve held leadership roles including Educational Technology Liaison for Assistive Technology, Chair of the Virginia Society for Technology in Education (VSTE) Events and Logistics Committee, and participant in the Arlington Public Schools Leadership Academy.

 I began my journey in education right here in Prince William County Public Schools, and I’m proud to return to serve the community that helped shape my career. I hold a B.S. in Elementary Education from St. Bonaventure University, an M.S. in Education with a concentration in Technology for Educators from Johns Hopkins University, and a Certificate in Administration and Supervision from Longwood University.

 I am committed to building strong relationships, empowering educators, and supporting every student’s success. I look forward to partnering with you and contributing to the vibrant Jenkins community.

Warm regards,

Meredith Allen
Assistant Principal