Dear Jackson Academy Community,
It’s a great time to be a Raider! Over the past few weeks, JA hosted our largest-ever JASI Show Choir Invitational, the Quiz Bowl team won the Mississippi Academic Competition and advances to the National Competition in May and June, both boys and girls Junior Varsity basketball teams won the MAIS 6A state championship, and SOAR students went rock climbing on a trip to Oxford. Then last week, JA formally announced the expansion of our school’s offerings to include a K2 program. All of this and more happened while incredible learning took place – as it does each and every day.
As our facilities improve and grow, we all know that our greatest asset and resource is our faculty and staff and the work they do to serve our student-centered mission. JA looks to build upon its stellar reputation as the preferred educational leader not only in the Jackson metro area but in our state and region as well.
As Head of School, I have three mission-centered considerations at all times.
- Respect and preserve our culture and the foundational elements of our past
- Ensure that every student is known and loved as we seek excellence for the here and now
- Prepare for a changing and challenging future
With these thoughts in mind, I am most happy to announce that Brandt Walker and Aubrey Blackwell will soon assume co-leadership for our athletic programming as Director of Athletic Operations and Director of Athletic Enrichment. Both of these character-filled men appreciate the role that athletics play in the lives of our young ladies and gentlemen and have a deep understanding for the interdependence of all academic and co-curricular programing.
Brandt previously coached football and track and taught Upper School history at Copiah Academy and Jackson Prep. Currently in his sixth year at JA, he has served in a variety of coaching and administrative capacities, including overseeing the daily operations of JA’s athletic department the last two years.
Aubrey joined Raider Nation this year as our varsity football head coach. Prior to coming to JA, Aubrey served in roles as varsity head football coach and Athletic Director in Alabama. Aubrey will continue to lead our varsity football team in addition to teaming up with Brandt.
At Jackson Academy, we seek to offer a transformational experience for all levels of athletics and focus on both the short game, the varsity experience, and the long game – to provide the enthusiasm and structure for youth development that enhances a sense of community and builds a strong program for years to come.
Under this new structure, Coaches Walker and Blackwell will be responsible for all athletic endeavors ranging from the expansion of our existing programs to new and innovative programming unique only to JA. Both recognize the importance of having clarity and delineation of the primary roles and responsibilities. For insight into this new structure and their thoughts and vision for Raider Nation, visit GoRaiders.org (scroll down to the Featured section) for an in-depth interview with these coaches led by Bryan Eubank.
Detailed information concerning changes in leadership in JA’s Student Life and Performing and Visual Arts programming will be announced in the coming weeks. These past few months have identified a heightened understanding of these areas alongside the sheer talent and drive of our students and faculty in these areas. Be assured that we are laser focused on these mission-critical areas of our school as they are an integral part of JA’s bright and bold future.
I am truly excited about what is in store for our community and I will finish where I started. The state of Jackson Academy is exceptionally strong, and I thank you for your trust and support. My best to you and your family as we finish this school year and prepare for exciting years ahead at JA!
Go Raiders!
Palmer Kennedy
Head of School
