Bristow Run Elementary's principal Jessica Parker (right) is leaving the school for a leadership position in the school division.Updated: March 18, 7 a.m.
Bristow Run Elementary Principal Jessica Parker is transferring to serve as acting principal of Bel Air Elementary School, replacing Acting Principal Margie Otterblad, who's Retirement Opportunity Program service has ended.
"Ms. Parker is no stranger to Bel Air. She attended the school for second-fifth grade. As a college graduate, she came back to teach first-grade from 1997-99," Otterblad said in a statement to the school community.
Original Story:
Jessica Parker, principal of Bristow Run Elementary School in Bristow, announced March 16 that she is leaving the school at the end of the week to assume a leadership position in the school division.
She had been BRES principal for two and a half years.
Rhonda Jeck, an assistant principal at Haymarket Elementary School, will serve as acting principal until a permanent replacement is appointed.
"I am extremely proud of what we have accomplished together during my years at Bristow Run. Strides in student literacy and two consecutive years as a School of Excellence are testament to our progress," Parker said. "Still, I feel it is time for new leadership to help strengthen the community dialog and engagement essential to building on the successful foundation we created together."
Parker's announcement comes amid some controversy; Parker reportedly had a tumultuous relationship with some parents and BRES staff.
Parker characterizes Jeck as a teacher with more than a decade of elementary experience and "well-known for her commitment to student learning and for establishing open communication and strong bonds with teachers."
Prince William County Schools has not revealed Parker's new position.
"Of course, it is bittersweet to be leaving a school and community that have meant so much to me for so long. I made wonderful friends, formed lasting memories, and hopefully changed many lives for the better," she said. "I am excited to be moving to a new school and new opportunities."
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