Liz Drake appointed interim principal at Thomas Jefferson High School
The Federal Way Board of Education voted Oct. 11 to appoint former Todd Beamer Principal Liz Drake interim principal at Thomas Jefferson High School, effective Oct. 12.
Thomas Jefferson principal Marsha Denton has been reassigned to an administrative position as Director of Research at the district's central office.
"I have decided that it is in the best interests of Thomas Jefferson's students to make an immediate change in leadership," said Superintendent Rob Neu. "The internal building issues and current situation is taking away from where we need to focus -- the academic achievement of all students."
In accepting the position, Drake announced that she would end her current campaign for a seat on the Board of Education. "I feel the passion I have around impacting student success will be most effectively achieved as interim principal at Thomas Jefferson High School," she said.
Drake has an established history with the district and served as Todd Beamer High School principal from 2008 to 2010. "Her heart and passion has always been for students," Neu said. Before coming to Federal Way, Drake was the principal of a high school in Pennsylvania. She also has worked as a principal and a teacher in England and has been a principal at the elementary, middle and high school levels.
Drake believes Thomas Jefferson High School is an amazing place. "It is filled with students ready to learn, families prepared to support, and staff ready to serve," stated Drake. "Working from our strengths and together, we can focus on the pleasure of seeing students challenging themselves and having a positive high school experience."
Neu emphasized that with this change of leadership, the goals for TJ students, parents and staff remain the same -- academic achievement for all students. "We are excited to welcome Liz back as interim principal at Thomas Jefferson during this time of great importance," said Neu.
Posted: October 11, 2011