Hello families, friends, and visitors—welcome to Jacob! I would like to take a moment to introduce myself as your new principal. My name is Karen Waggoner and I join the Jacob family after spending the last 17 years in education as a teacher, leader, and administrator both in the Archdiocese of Louisville and JCPS. I am originally from Louisville, but went to school in Miami, Florida and received by Bachelor’s Degree from Florida State University. I then received my Master’s Degree from Indiana University and Rank 1 as an Educational Specialist from Bellarmine University.

My core beliefs as your new school leader are to develop and maintain a safe and nurturing environment, engaging instruction with high expectations, and a positive climate for each and every child. We, at Jacob, are committed to working together to ensure that these factors are in place and constantly being improved upon.

I look forward to meeting each of you and working together for the success of your child.

Karen Waggoner, Principal
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Greetings, Jacob families and friends - welcome to our fabulous school. I come from a family of educators and as a young child, I knew that I wanted to be a teacher, administrator, and an educational motivator. I received my undergraduate degree from Eastern Kentucky University, my graduate degree from Indiana Wesleyan University and my administration certification from Western Kentucky University.

I started my education career at Jacob Elementary more than 24 years ago. I am excited about being part of the Jacob family where I plan to work alongside Principal Waggoner to make Jacob a school where student learning and achievement come first. Our focus for the Jacob faculty and staff will be on high expectations and engaged student learners.

Please feel free to contact me if you need any assistance, or to introduce yourself. I am eager to work with all parents, students, teachers, and staff to ensure emotional, social, and academic success for all of our students.

Here at Jacob Elementary, we strive for success for all of our students.

A’Nita Overall, Assistant Principal
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Hello Jaguar Family,

 I am honored to have the opportunity to help lead a school with such persevering students, an extremely dedicated staff, and a supportive school community. As the new Assistant Principal of Climate and Culture, I feel very fortunate to be part of this school and to support the staff, students, and families. Growing up in Southend Louisville, I know that Jacob Elementary is the BEST school in JCPS!

I have been dedicated to the field of education for more than 22 years.  I have worked with students ranging in age from Kindergarten through 5th grade in a variety of roles, including Behavior Coach at Jacob for 3 years.  I am thrilled to bring my skills as an educator and leader to Jacob Elementary School and to work with you as a partner in education.

I view education as a life-long process that includes social, emotional, and academic learning. I believe that students are at the center of all school-related decisions. The relationships between teachers, administrators, and families are vital to the success of our students and our school. Please contact me if your family needs support, have concerns, or questions. I look forward to building a relationship with your family so that your child/ren can have the BEST education!  

Respectfully,

Kimberly Harding, Assistant Principal of Climate & Culture

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