Head of School Palmer Kennedy announced last Thursday that Kyle Nichols, a veteran educator from the Clinton Public School system, will be JA’s incoming Head of Upper School. Nichols was chosen based on his alignment with the school’s mission, his professional values, and his demonstrated leadership qualities.
Kennedy also announced an expanded role for Austin Fortenberry, who currently instructs Upper School English and coordinates chapel and student government programs. He will become Associate Head of Upper School.
Nichols will officially start on June 1, with plans to be on the JA campus for various meetings before that date. He brings extensive experience as an Advanced Placement (AP) teacher, coach, and with programming that contributes to student achievement. Nichols and his wife Hannah have two children, ages 2 ½ and four months.
“The internal team tasked with the search for the new Upper School leader found his vision for student success and effective communication skills well-suited to lead this complex division,” Kennedy said.
Fortenberry is completing his first year at JA, and has quickly become an integral part of the Upper School. “Recognizing his exceptional talents and expertise and his previous classroom experience in independent schools and at the university level, Austin will assume the position of Associate Head of Upper School,” said Kennedy. “While he will continue teaching some classes, this new role focuses on nurturing deeper student relationships, supporting discipline, fostering decorum, coordinating activities, and promoting a balanced approach to student life.”
“We firmly believe that by naming Kyle to this lead position and realigning Austin into a new position, partnered with our dedicated faculty and staff, we are furthering our ability to uphold the standards of excellence set forth within the school’s mission,” said Kennedy.
