Head of School

Palmer Kennedy Welcomed as New Head of Jackson Academy

On June 1, Jackson Academy welcomed new Head of School Palmer Kennedy. Kennedy and his wife, Karen, relocated to Jackson this summer, joining the Jackson community from Birmingham, Alabama, where Kennedy served as headmaster at Advent Episcopal School. Kennedy’s 36-year career as an independent school educator encompasses roles as headmaster of Advent Episcopal School and St. Luke’s Episcopal School and as Director of Upper School at St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile. He also served in administrative, athletic, and teaching roles at St. Paul’s.

He holds a Master of Arts in history from the University of South Alabama and a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Mobile. In addition, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in economics and history from the University of South Alabama and completed the British Studies Program at the London School of Economics.

He currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS), of which JA is a member. Kennedy has frequently served on accreditation teams for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), SAIS, and Advanced Ed/Cognia. 

Kennedy has spent his first few weeks meeting JA families, working with faculty and staff, connecting with students, and reviewing the school’s operations. “We could not be happier to be in Mississippi and to be a part of the community here. We are so excited to join the Jackson Academy family,” he said. Kennedy has a three-prong philosophy guiding his leadership of the school: to respect tradition, ensure that students get the best education possible, and look to the future. 

Jackson Academy is a K3-12 independent, college-preparatory school located in the Jackson metro area. Within our nurturing and spiritual community, Jackson Academy inspires and equips each student to lead a life of purpose and significance. 

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“My wife Karen and I are looking for a place to invest deeply. We want to be part of a learning community where each family can claim that the teachers and coaches do not just teach, tolerate, or manage their students. Rather, they love and cherish these precious gifts from God.”

Palmer Kennedy

Professional Summary

Palmer Kennedy’s 36-year career as an independent school educator encompasses roles as headmaster of Advent Episcopal School in Birmingham and St. Luke’s Episcopal School in Mobile, and as Director of Upper School at St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile, in addition to administrative, athletic director, and teaching roles at St. Paul’s.

He holds a Master of Arts in history from the University of South Alabama and a Master of Arts in Education from the University of Mobile. He completed a Bachelor of Arts in economics and history from the University of South Alabama and completed the British Studies Program at the London School of Economics.

He currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Southern Association of Independent Schools, of which JA is a member. He has frequently served on accreditation teams for SACS, SAIS, and Advanced Ed/Cognia.