MCPS News

National Principals Month: Q&A with E. Julian Pineda, Roscoe R. Nix Elementary School

Posted On October 13, 2026

October is National Principals Month. Throughout the month, MCPS is recognizing the dedicated leaders who guide our schools and support students, staff and families every day. To celebrate, we’re highlighting a few principals around the county to learn more about what inspires them and the impact they hope to make in their school communities. Get to know these leaders, their passions and a few fun facts.

How long have you been with MCPS? This is my third year with MCPS.

How long have you been at Roscoe R. Nix Elementary School? This is also my third year as principal of Roscoe R. Nix Elementary School.

What keeps you inspired and motivated in your work as a principal? The students. Welcoming them each morning, exchanging fist bumps and hugs, walking into classrooms or the cafeteria, talking with them, and seeing their excitement and curiosity remind me every day why I do this work. I am especially inspired by witnessing their growth; hearing emergent multilingual learners begin to communicate in English, watching kindergarten students learn to read, and seeing children gain confidence in themselves as learners. I am equally motivated by the growth of our staff and grateful for the trust they place in me. Knowing that the decisions we make as educators can positively change the trajectory of a child’s life gives tremendous meaning to this work.

What's one thing your students or staff have taught you? They have taught me the importance of remaining optimistic and finding joy and gratitude even during challenging moments. Our students, especially, have an incredible ability to start each day with excitement, curiosity and a fresh perspective. They remind me that each day is another opportunity to learn, grow and do better.

What's one thing you hope every student feels when they walk through your school's doors? I want every student who walks through our doors to feel safe, welcomed, seen, valued and supported. Most importantly, I want them to know that they belong at Nix and that there are adults here who believe in them, care about them and are committed to helping them succeed.

What’s an interesting/fun fact that not everyone knows about you? I work hard to maintain a healthy balance between my professional and personal life, and one of my greatest passions outside of school is traveling. I love experiencing different cultures and trying to learn at least a little of the language wherever I go. So far, I have traveled to 45 countries and have had the opportunity to live and teach in four countries.

What impact do you think principals have on the greater community? Principals have a tremendous responsibility because schools are much more than physical spaces where students come to learn. Schools are places where children develop the academic, social and emotional skills that will help shape their futures. They can also serve as important centers of connection and support for families and the broader community. At Nix, we strive to create a school where families feel welcomed, valued and supported in many different ways. I believe one of our greatest responsibilities as principals is to bring students, staff, families and community partners together around a shared commitment to ensuring that every child has access to the opportunities, support and education they deserve.