Greenwood Principal Barry Jacks Receives Inaugural Principal of Excellence Award for Transformative Leadership in Education

Greenwood, South Carolina: Celebrating a Pioneer in Education

The delightful city of Greenwood is buzzing with excitement and pride as one of its own, Barry Jacks, is honored with a prestigious accolade that celebrates outstanding leadership and dedication in the field of education. Barry Jacks, the principal of Pinecrest Elementary School, was recently named the recipient of the Inaugural Principal of Excellence Award.

In partnership with the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, the South Carolina Department of Education (SCDE) has designed this award to recognize principals who demonstrate leadership that drives student success, transforms school environments, and fosters academic excellence. And my, oh my, does Jacks fit the bill!

A Legacy of Transformation

Barry Jacks is far from a novice when it comes to leading schools to success. With a whopping 46-year career in education, of which 26 years were served as a principal, Jacks has been a transformational force in numerous schools across South Carolina. Known for his exceptional ability to improve schools, Jacks has taken five out of six schools he led from struggling standings to resounding success, leaping from the bottom 40% to the top 20% in state rankings.

Year after year, the schools under his leadership have consistently ranked among the most improved, undoubtedly making the residents of South Carolina beam with pride.

A Dedicated Team Effort

Are you wondering how Jacks took the magic he spun at one school and replicated it elsewhere? Well, he humbly credits his success to the outstanding teamwork of students, families, teachers, and staff. “This award is a reflection of the dedicated students, families, teachers, and staff I’ve had the privilege of working with. Together, we’ve shown that excellence is always within reach, no matter the challenges,” said Jacks.

Remarkable Achievements at Pinecrest Elementary

More recently, Jacks led Pinecrest Elementary to transform from an average rating to an excellent one in just one year. Can you believe that? It’s clear that the amazing work being done at Pinecrest is not a result of chance but a product of visionary leadership and tireless dedication.

Adoration and Praise

From students to supervisors, everyone recognizes Jacks as a beacon of excellence. State Superintendent Ellen Weaver hailed Jacks as a model of excellence. “Barry Jacks has made a lasting impact on countless schools across South Carolina,” Weaver exclaimed. His focus on uplifting school communities, especially those serving high-poverty populations, underscores the power of strong leadership coupled with high expectations.

Dr. Steve Glenn, superintendent of Greenwood School District 50, added, “Barry’s unwavering focus on building strong foundations, paired with his commitment to high-quality instruction, has elevated schools across our district.”

A Well-Deserved Honor

This award comes with a $25,000 recognition, which celebrates the hard work and dedication of a principal who has truly made a difference. Cynthia Bennett, executive vice president and chief operating officer of the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce, expressed her appreciation of Jacks’ work and impact on South Carolina’s future workforce.

“Strong school leadership is vital to the development of South Carolina’s future leaders and workforce. Barry Jacks has helped lay the foundation for future success for his students,” she highlighted.

An Exciting Future

In the vibrant educational community of Greenwood, it’s principals like Barry Jacks who embody the promise of an incredibly bright future. As he continues to inspire and lead with honor and dedication, we look forward to seeing even more success stories emerge from Pinecrest Elementary School and beyond!