Thomas L. Sims Middle School, formerly a part of Pace Middle School, is a public middle school, located in Northwest Florida. The school is named after a legendary educator, Mr. Thomas L. Sims. Mr. Sims served as principal of Pace Middle School for 30 years from 1961 to 1991. Because his spirit lives on in Sims Middle School, Mr. Sims will always be remembered. The school was formally dedicated on August 14, 1998, with many of his family, friends, educators, and community members in attendance. Sims has only had three principals: Wanda W. Knowles (1998-2013), Sharon Patrick (2013-2015) and Emily Donalson (2015-present).

This year Sims Middle has over 1,000 students enrolled with over 300 students in each grade level. Personnel consists of 2 administrators, 54 instructional personnel (guidance, dean, teachers and media specialist) and 16 educational support personnel (data entry, secretary, bookkeeper, paraprofessionals, and teacher’s assistants). We are also served by various district agencies and contracted services. Sims is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Academically, Sims Middle School strives for excellence in all areas. Since the state instituted its grading system, Sims Middle has achieved an “A” school grade. In the last five years, Sims has added multiple courses to prepare students for academic and career success. High school courses such as Geometry and Digital Information Technology enable students to earn high school credit while still in middle school.

Students are also given the opportunity to get connected at Sims Middle School through student organizations. Student may choose to be a part of Chess, Sims Stars, Science Olympiad, First Priority, Patriot Pacers, and Take A Stand. Students may be selected to a part of Jr. Beta, SGA, and/or yearbook. Our goal with organizations is to help students find a way to service, lead and be involved while school.