Salem Academy Names Principal As New Senior Director Of Academics

SALEM, MA — Salem Academy Charter School's Upper School principal has been selected as the school's new Senior Director of Academics.

The school said Drea Jacobs accepted the position and will officially transfer to her new role on July 1. For the remainder of this school year, Jacobs will continue as school principal while taking on some responsibilities of the new role, including helping find her replacement as principal.

"I am grateful to be a part of such a reflective and action-oriented community of students, families, and staff here at Salem Academy," Jacobs said. "As we look to next year, I am eager to build upon our school's strong foundation and will work to strengthen our student experience, focusing on rigorous, engaging classes, service to the community, student leadership, and better preparing students for post-graduate college and career opportunities."

The new position will replace the former Head of School role that was previously held by current Executive Director Stephanie Callahan.

"Drea's experience, commitment to our students, and strong instructional leadership made her the unanimous choice for this position,” Callahan said. "She has led strongly and with care throughout the pandemic. I am excited for her leadership at the next level."

Jacobs is a graduate of Colby College with a degree in Mathematical Sciences and has a Master's Degree in Educational Leadership from National Louis University in Chicago.

She has previously worked in Lawrence Public Schools and was the founder and principal of KIPP Academy in Lynn.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)