• me 

    Welcome to Long International Middle School: Where "You Belong at Long!"

    I am Dr. Benicia Nanez-Hunt, and I am thrilled to continue leading this exceptional community of students and staff who embrace uniqueness and diversity authentically. This marks my 24th year in education and my 7th year as the proud principal of Long International Middle School.

    At Long, we are dedicated to cultivating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every student is empowered to learn, grow, and excel. This year, we continue our journey toward becoming a School of Character through the Character Plus program, reinforcing our commitment to values-based education.

    A Culture of Innovation and Excellence

    Long International Middle School is a proud Verizon Innovative Learning School. Through our partnership with Verizon and Digital Promise, we provide high-speed iPads to students and staff, integrating technology-enhanced learning experiences. Our VILS Learning Lab, the first of its kind in Missouri, supports this innovative approach. We are committed to excellence in literacy, culture, and STEM education, preparing our students to be global scholars and responsible citizens.

    The Harambe Family Project: Building Community and Belonging

    After a successful pilot in April 2024, we are excited to expand the Harambe Family Project to all 6th and 7th graders. In Harambe, students join one of five Families—La Famille, Usrah, Kazuko, Ebi, or Ayllu—for the duration of their time at Long. Within their Families, students:

    • Track their progress in reading and mathematics.
    • Participate in friendly academic and athletic competition
    • Explore the culture and history of their chosen Family.
    • Develop a strong sense of belonging at Long, within St. Louis, and as global citizens.

    A Glimpse Into My Life

    Outside of Long, I am a proud mother of four:

    • Anthony (26) – Electrician
    • Amaia (24) – Nurse at Barnes Jewish Hospital (Mizzou '23, Goldfarb School of Nursing '24)
    • Akila (21) – Computer Science and Cybersecurity student
    • Nina (10) – Student at Mallinckrodt Gifted Academy

    I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, cooking, folding laundry (yes, really!), and exploring new cultures. I also love watching law and crime dramas.

    I look forward to working together to make this school year an extraordinary journey of learning and growth. Feel free to visit, and always remember: You BeLong at Long!

     

     

    Background and Work Experience:

    2015-2018: Assistant Principal--Collegiate School of Medicine and Bioscience

    2016-2018: National Honor Society Sponsor

    2014-2015: Assistant Principal, Instructional Coach, and ELA Teacher--Jennings Junior High School

    2003-2014: Humanities Department Chair, English Department Chair, Professional Development President, and ELA Teacher 9-12/AP Literature & AP Composition--Jennings Senior High

    2002-2014: Dance Team Sponsor

    2000-2002: Primary Teacher Lead (2nd grade)

    2000-2002: Programs Coordinator

    Education:

    Doctorate of Education (2023)--Maryville University

    Educational Specialist (2021)--Lindenwood University

    Masters of Arts, English (2016)--University of Missouri-St. Louis

    Bachelors of Arts, English (2002)--University of Missouri-St. Louis

    Bachelors of Science, Secondary Education (2002)--University of Missouri-St. Louis