​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 850 students enrolled with over 250 students in each grade level. Personnel consists of 2 administrators, 44 instructional personnel (guidance, dean, teachers and media specialist) and 12 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.
Sims is proud to have an active PTO program.  The PTO continues to help the school achieve many goals.  The PTO is active in fund-raising, volunteering, and providing appreciation activities for faculty and staff.  PTO plays an integral part of Sim’s success.
Many of our PTO members and parents find ways to be involved through volunteering.  Sims continues to have an excellent volunteer program. Four major areas where our volunteer serve are Chorus, Band, Helping Hands, and Partners In Education.
Thomas L. Sims Middle School has established a School Advisory Council (SAC) to serve in an advisory capacity to the school principal and to assist in the development of the educational program and in the preparation and evaluation of the school improvement process, pursuant to Florida Statute requirements.  This council meets quarterly throughout the school year.