Shejuanna Jacobs, principal of Leesville Road High School, was named Wake County Principal of the Year on October 3, 2024.
Ms. Jacobs’ first year as Leesville’s principal was the 2023-24 school year, and she has already made many changes to the school.
Jacobs upgraded the furniture in the main building, replacing the desks and chairs in the main building classrooms and the library. Additionally, she repainted the walls, adding decals and stripes in Leesville’s school colors. The school looks bright and new because of these changes.
“Our school looks better,” said Liliana Palermo, senior.
At the beginning of the 2024-25 school year, Ms. Jacobs added an advisory period for all Leesville students. Jacobs also held principal chats with all students during the first few weeks of school.
“She’s on a more personal level… she really likes to connect with her students,” said Palermo.
Jacobs has an energetic spirit, which brings the students closer together.
“Having a principal that you can tell enjoys her job strengthens morale across the school. I think when she is happy and positive, the students are happy and positive, and it is just a good energy throughout the school,” said Palermo.
Mrs. Dotson, Biology teacher at Leesville, has taught at Leesville since its opening in 1993. She has worked for five principals before Jacobs.
“She’s added some excitement. After 32 years, things just started getting old, and she’s got a lot of really good ideas about bringing students up mentally, emotionally, and academically, [and] about changing things happening in the classroom. Hopefully, adding more school spirit,” said Dotson.
“[Jacobs is] fresh and young… She’s excited to be here, she’s excited to be in high school,” said Dotson.
Jacobs’ personality and innovation makes students and teachers appreciate what she does for Leesville. Her hard work in developing the school shines through every day, and Leesville will continue to benefit from her leadership.
“The students respect her, the teachers respect her, she’s a really nice woman to work for,” said Dotson.
The Wake County Principal of the Year award is an esteemed honor. Leesville congratulates Ms. Jacobs on this well deserved accomplishment.
Leave a Reply