Jackson Academy’s commitment to educational innovation has earned worldwide recognition, as Upper School English teacher Dr. Cassidy Swinney has been selected as an Apple Distinguished Educator for the Class of 2026. Dr. Swinney is the first educator from Jackson Academy to receive this prestigious and selective international honor.
The Apple Distinguished Educator program recognizes visionary leaders who are transforming teaching and learning through effective use of technology. Recipients are selected based on their leadership in educational communities and their commitment to helping other educators integrate technology meaningfully into their practice.
“Apple Distinguished Educators aren’t created by a program; they’re recognized by one,” said JA Director of Technology Lori Snider. “When a teacher earns this honor, it isn’t just a personal achievement; it reflects the students, the school, and the culture that make innovation possible.”
Dr. Swinney’s selection reflects Jackson Academy’s investment in cutting-edge pedagogy and faculty development. In her second year at JA, she teaches AP Seminar, World Literature (dual enrollment), and American Literature, and pioneered the school’s AP Capstone program, building it from the ground up. She leads professional development sessions for faculty on Apple technology integration and artificial intelligence in education, helping colleagues explore how technology can enhance rather than replace meaningful learning experiences.
Jackson Academy’s focus on recruiting exceptional educators brought Dr. Swinney’s extensive background in curriculum and instruction to the school community. “Dr. Swinney’s impact on students and colleagues is undeniable,” said Head of Upper School Kyle Nichols. “Her leadership of JA’s new AP Capstone program raises the bar even more for Jackson Academy students, who will graduate with a unique experience that makes them highly sought after by colleges and universities. Her professional development offerings also provide resources for colleagues to refine and elevate their students’ learning experiences.”
She holds a doctorate in curriculum and instruction, with doctoral research focused on teacher retention and success in Mississippi. Prior to joining JA, she served as a learning specialist at Mississippi State University and taught at multiple schools across the state, earning recognition as Novice Teacher of the Year for the Gulfport School District in 2017.
Dr. Swinney has shared her expertise beyond the classroom through publications in education journals including The Educator’s Room, addressing topics from educational technology to effective instructional practices. She was previously honored as Most Inspiring Teacher at Starkville High School.
The Swinney family exemplifies Jackson Academy’s close-knit community. Dr. Swinney’s husband Seth serves as JA’s Social Media and Branding Specialist, and their daughters Caroline (first grade) and Catherine (K4) are JA students. The family resides in Jackson.
As an Apple Distinguished Educator, Dr. Swinney joins a global network of education leaders and will bring insights from this community back to Jackson Academy, furthering the school’s mission to provide students with world-class learning experiences. In 1995, Apple created the ADE Program to recognize K–12 and higher education pioneers who are using Apple technology to transform teaching and learning in powerful ways. Celebrating 30 years, the program has grown into a worldwide community of visionary and innovative leaders in education, helping other educators rethink what’s possible with iPad and Mac. Learn more about the contributions of ADEs worldwide at https://www.apple.com/education/k12/apple-distinguished-educator/.
