Jennifer Prince
Assistant Principal
Bachelor of Arts in English, Indiana University, Indianapolis; Master of Science in Literacy, Language, and Culture Education, Indiana University; Master of Science in School Counseling, American Public University; Master of Science in Educational Administration, Columbia College
Jennifer Prince has been a part of the Connections Academy community since 2011. She is the Assistant Principal at Lowcountry Connections Academy and says her favorite part of the job is “celebrating students and teachers.”
Why She Became an Educator
Ms. Prince feels like she’s been an educator her entire life. “I made my stuffed animals and friends sit in my classroom when I was in elementary school. I always took great pleasure when they got something right. As I aged, I knew I wanted to work with people in improving their lives.
“It wasn’t until I was in my 30s that I finally decided I should be helping high school students improve their lives. I did not have the best high school experience, so I’ve made it my life’s mission to help my students have the best high school experience available to them.
“I love that students choose to attend this school. Out of all of the school choices they have, they chose a Connections Academy school. I believe that’s because our reputation as a premier school speaks for itself.”
The Online Experience at Lowcountry Connections Academy
“We are keenly aware that the first phone call a family and student receives from us sets the tone for the school year,” says Ms. Prince. “We use those calls to truly get to know our students. We want that call and all other calls to focus on relationships first.
“In the words of the late, great Rita Pierson, ‘Kids don’t learn from people they don’t like.’ At this school, we want to be sure our students have an engaging learning environment, where they can expect to learn at high levels.”
When asked what makes online school different from a brick-and-mortar setting, Ms. Prince said, “I believe students have to have a certain level of self-motivation. While we have certified teachers, there isn’t one in your face every day telling you to do your work. We’ll check in on you and we’ll hold you accountable, but it’s up to the student if they truly want to do well or not.”
“I love that the reasons students choose to attend [Lowcountry] Connections Academy are as diverse as our students.”
— Ms. Prince
How This School Helps Prepare Students for a Bright Future
According to Ms. Prince, “Our curriculum is rigorous, and students who are engaged and doing well are already setting themselves up for success because they are motivated and know how to work independently. That independent work does not come naturally to many students.”