Veteran principal takes on newly created role at JCPS
By Carolyn Callahan
June 2, 2023 - Jill Handley has been named the assistant superintendent of English Language Learning for Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS). She brings extensive experience to this role as principal of Kenwood Elementary School.
“I am honored and grateful to have been selected for a position that has so much potential to impact change for an increasing population of students,” said Handley. “I'm so excited to expand my passion and advocacy for working with multilingual learners and their families, and to build upon the community partnerships I have established in my current role.”
In her new position, Handley will be responsible for overseeing English language learning (ELL) programs and ensuring equitable access to high-quality education for JCPS students who are English learners. She will also focus on working with schools, families, and community partners to strengthen support systems for students who speak English as a second language.
“Jill Handley is a passionate leader and strong advocate for our English learners,” said Dr. Terra Greenwell, chief academic officer for JCPS. “ In her sixteen years as principal, she has sought equity, inclusion, and access for all students. This is evidenced by the incredible community she created at Kenwood Elementary and the national recognitions she has received in her time there. I am excited for her to make an even bigger impact on our multilingual learners and their families district wide.”
This is a newly created position at JCPS to support the district’s growing ELL community. Currently, there are more than 16,000 multilingual learners throughout the district.
“Handley’s deep knowledge of English language learning and her experience serving diverse student populations make her an excellent fit for this role,” said Dr. Marty Pollio, JCPS superintendent. “I am confident she will build on our district’s work to create a strong, supportive environment for our English language learners and their families.”
Handley has dedicated her entire career to JCPS. She started as a regular and special education teacher and spent four years as an instructional coach before becoming principal of Kenwood in 2007.
Handley begins her new role on July 1.